Ministry and Enrichment

I have found that one of the greatest encouragements as a "newbie" in the world of inner-city ministry(or just in missions in general) is talking to those who have been in it and can share experiences and words of encouragement. I have so much to learn and so many areas to grow in!
Today, the Weidman's and I spent the day at a conference here in Detroit. One of the main emphasis of this conference was discipleship, particularly with African Americans. It was so perfect and pertained so much to what we are doing here. I loved how one speaker pointed out that discipleship is a journey, not a program, it's a process, not a product. He then went on to share how Jesus' incarnation was an example to us on how to disciple. He came and lived among us, He didn't just tell us how to live, He showed us.
That is really my goal here. I felt that this speaker spoke what was in my heart and verbalized what I was feeling but didn't know how to put into words. That is how I want to live among the kids and teenage girls I am with. I want to live with them, share life with them, and show them Jesus. Sometimes, it can be discouraging and feel like I am getting no where. But that's when I put things on my time table and not God's. Relationships take time. It cannot happen over night. As far as how things are going in the ministry itself, we had a great week this past week in Kids Club. One of our families came and pretty much ran the events and Bible lesson. It was so great as everything tied into what was being taught during Bible time. Their lesson was called "Good Dog/Bad Dog" and they spoke on how we need to feed the good things and good desires in our lives, not the bad. Because whichever one you feed, will grow. And you want the good dog to be good, not the bad one! The kids really loved it. This is a pic. of them "feeding" the dog in an outdoor activity Tim set up.
I've also had the opportunity this week to get to know one of our neighbors. I've invited the girls to our Bible studies(they are in jr high and high school). I met them in the fall when we moved in and they always greeted me in the morning on their way to school. When I went over to their house to talk to them, their mother invited me in. I talked with her about what we do and she invited me to one of their "Block Meetings". I'm really excited about this as it will be a great way to get connected in the neighborhood and get to know my neighbors. It's amazing how the spring weather brings people out!
Today, I went over to a street that some of our kids live on because the weather was so great and I thought they might be out. Plus, they've wanted one of their friends to come so I thought it would be good to meet her mom. I went over and they were outside. We played some basketball on the street court(a hoop set up in the middle of the street). I think the neighbors were wondering what was up with this white girl playing B-ball with the kids in the 'hood...but some of them already knew me. It was a lot of fun. I love it. I love being here!!
I'm excited about it being spring because it's great being outside, hanging out with the kids... just being here, living life with them.