Friday 11 December 2009

Today was a very special day!

Today was a special day for mama and I. For three winters now mama and I have been volunteering on Friday mornings to work for a homeless shelter here in Citrus County, Florida. Today, Friday, was a typical Friday morning - almost. We arrived at THE PATH at about 8:30am. We went in and met with staff briefly and then we were introduced to three men who would be going with us for the rest of the morning to look for employment.

Each time, as we start down the road, I ask mama to pray for us. As she prays for us I drive. After she gets done praying, several ask if I had my eyes closed!! LOL

We went to several places, most of which were not hiring, but work applications were completed anyways to be put on file.

One of the stops was special. We usually don't go in with them, we want them to do the work. We are the encouragers. But this one was different. We were at a fast food restaurant and talked with the shift supervisor, after mama and I gave him a hug and I tried not to cry.

One of the men with us got an employment application blank and completed it while we waited. After completing the application the young man gave the shift supervisor the application. Again, I struggled with tears as I watched the supervisor take the application and tried to reassure the young man.

Almost two years ago we had stopped at this restaurant with a van load of young men who were seeking employment. One of them that day was a convicted felon who had an extensive rap sheet. We had been working with this young man several weeks. He was struggling with his spiritual life, self esteem and what the future held. He had completed several food culinary courses and was hoping. He was hired that day!!! Two years later - he is that shift supervisor today!! He now has his own apartment, a new baby girl and is trying to walk where Jesus leads him.

Yes, today was special - and I am crying. Do you know that God answers prayer?

8 comments:

Ed said...

Great to read about someone taking that big step towards a productive, and faith filled, life.

He, like the rest of us, has to walk his own path, but it really helps to have people like you and Mama helping him along the way.

Indian Lake Papa said...

Ed - he has had made some very difficult choices through life that have hurt him and others - but he is really trying to walk the right path.The scars are there but he is going on!

CrossView said...

I'm so glad the shift supervisor is still embracing his 2nd chance. Sounds like he'll be a good mentor for the new hiree!

Isn't it amazing that YOU have come full circle? From housing them to helping them start a new life? Kinda like Old Testament to New Testament??!! ;o)

Indian Lake Papa said...

Crossview -Pray hard for the men and women at the shelter. Many give up, get discouraged and have a hard road ahead. Pray they seek God's direction and learn to trust His guidance.

Peter Olson said...

We are praying and
God answers our prayers.

Indian Lake Papa said...

Thanks for the prayers Peter!! We appreciate it very much!!

Life Adapted said...

Oh Papa, what beautiful story! What an honor for you and Mama to see how you have made a difference in a man's life. I am crying, too! Keep blessing those around you - you are an inspiration.

Indian Lake Papa said...

LA - we all have the responsibility of putting our faith in God into action!