Since last Monday's breakthrough, it feels like the floodgates have opened and we're starting to see real tangible signs that life change is happening! More and more people are starting to seek help: finding work, finding a place to live, getting connected to social assistance and other services, and most encouraging -seeking treatment from the addictions that have held them down so long.
It's really quite remarkable... though it should come as no surprise, since we believe in a supernatural God capable of unimaginable miracles, right?
It seems a miracle has happened in the life of one of our most 'lost' drug addicts/dealer. Tommy (*not his real name) truly fit the stereotype of a street gangsta. Chains around his neck, over sized football jersey, baggy pants... he walked with an unmistakable strut that carried an air of 'untouchable' arrogance. The staff weren't sure what to make of him, he was a bizarre paradox to say the least... Here you had this kid, that was perhaps the most despicable (in the Mission life-change sense) -a drug dealer, but at the same time he was charming, funny and still really likable, despite the obvious.
Tommy reached an impasse in his life here in Vernon, too many people knocking down his door it seems... So, unannounced to anyone he skipped town to Vancouver.
So when he came back strutting through our front doors last week, (after a few months away) I could only imagine the kind of trouble he got into while on the West Coast.
I quickly discovered that one shouldn't jump to such conclusions so easily. It seems, an angel (of sorts) plucked him right off the streets and convinced him that detox was the way to go... From there, he started up in their work service... first, as a worker who'd pick up used rigs on the streets and alleyways. Then he started helping make lunches and serving them. Then he picked up a third job (!) handing out blankets at the overnight shelter.
He started sensing a change in his own heart, (remembering as we told him repeatedly that Jesus had a plan for his life, that he would be used as a vessel to do HIS amazing works) that by sharing his own experiences, that he could reach those that in the same place he was.
He shared with them, another path to take. A happier place of truth and a freedom from drugs and the streets... what a miracle!
That said, Tommy is no saint (and he recognizes that). There is a reason that he was brought back to Vernon, some unresolved issues to face. But when all is said and done, I believe that Tommy is going to do wonderful things in the name of Jesus, bringing addicts back from the point of no return, and telling them, that this place doesn't exist! That by the power of God all can be saved and have eternal life and real PURPOSE in life! How cool is that?
Ephesians 2:8 -For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God
Romans 10:12-13 -For there is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him, for, "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."
1 comment:
Hey Andy!! It's Evelyn! Just wanted to say hello!! It's great to hear about all the wonderful things that are happening in the Upper Room! It's so cool!! Oh, and congrats on your new home!:) It sounds like you are much happier and back to happy, funny, weird (just joking),great Andy! That's great!! Anyways, say hello to Jasper and Bre for me!!
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