A Refuge in the Shelters

I had a great visit with Phil Beauford yesterday observing his Thursday ministry at two men's homeless shelters. He clearly has a warm relationship with the men and staff which comes from his obvious loving spirit, but also through faithfully coming for years. He opens his meeting with a prayer, then plays music. Usually Jennifer Maddox is with him and sings. When she is not there he plays gospel songs. He played a cd of Sam Cook singing spirituals and gospel in the 50's. Then he preaches (yesterday on the resurrection, but will return to going through the Gospel of John). He concludes by inviting anyone to come up for prayer requests. He and I split up listening to requests and praying individually for those who came up. (The last gentlemen who came up to me was a former Muslim who was converted to Christ by reading the Torah, which he had been encouraged as a Muslim to read.)

It was evident that many of the men in the homes were there because of addiction and refusal to work. But there are also Christian brothers who whether it be from circumstance or their failures are trying to get their lives straight and be faithful to God. Visits like those from Phil and Jennifer give them encouragement and accountability (Phil doesn't hold anything back!). Please pray for this Thursday ministry.