Have you ever walked around a strange place, but becuase of who you are with everyone greets you kindly with a smile. This has been our experience today. In supermarkets, city, cafe, and historic landmarks our friend is the guy to know. Why is this? Well he is one of them, not by birth .,, but now they call him "brother". He is one of them, not necessarily because he ran a kids club for their children that they loved (although he has done many of those) but in numerous other instances because he was involved in rescuing them or a family friend when their adult life was in such a pit. Such a man who lives amongst you, gains a reputation for being good, upright, honourable to all parts of society as a man full of love for people is always accepted... well by the majority anyway. This was not always the way, Even in the best of communities others have their agenda. Some spread lies and sow doubts on a man's character or reputation, but God reveals truth and even uses those who oppose to show the integrity of his people.
In a dark place people make a lot of money from vulnerables remaining unrescued, on dugs, in satanic practices or being radicalised. All of it is calculated cynical manipulation, a view of humans without seeing their true value as those made in the image of God and remade in the perfect image of Christ. So when an outsider arrives, and over many years is tested, and only love and sacrifice is found... people can do nothing other than appreciate and welcome as their hearts are softened, In every society there are the marginalised, those talked about derivatively. However, when a man full of the Holy Spirit arrives and values those individuals, (the vagrants, the travellers, those of ill reputation) ...something powerful happens. As gospel ignition tajes place, stand well back and see the explosive power of love, revolutionary love, Christ's love, as it percolates change in enemies and cynics, the rich and the poor, the young and old.
In a small square of land several mosques, Catholic churches, Orthodox churches and occult practices look through the windows at each other. Each have their agenda and each are happy to marginalise. What is certain in this beautiful city of confusion is the unmistakeable search and desire to explore truth. People are hungry for the new true community. People are looking, and seeking something bigger. I know a man who can help and he will be walking nearby.Thank God for such men who walk with the love of Christy shaping their hearts and lives.
Tomorrow is a big day as we share good news with friends. May our time of fun and community see some find the one who this city is desperately looking for.
Thank you for praying with us.
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