Most of us joined one of two rescue vans, heading out to various downtown sites, wherever there might be groups of people struggling with homelessness or addictions. Some of us counseled, some prayed, all encouraged people to trust Jesus. Additionally, free rides to the New Orleans Mission were offered, so people could receive real help. And, get this, lots of this was done LIVE on radio!
This was the fourth night for Desperate Reality: Facing the Truth, a live radio rescue of hurting people, aired on WWL Radio AM 8870 and 105.3 FM.
Several of our team were in the radio station, interceding as well.
This ministry follows the example of Jesus, in Luke 19:10, "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."
This ministry, is staffed by men who have themselves escaped the desperation and desolation of addiction or homelessness.
As our team begins to process last evening, words include "raw", "enthusiasm", "Spirit moving", "heart-breaking, "Holy Ghost conviction" and "true compassion" are being used.
May God bless all our mighty Prayer Warriors for praying us through and may God continue to bless the Desperate Reality Ministry!
http://www.desperatereality.com/
Here's a short video to show the mindset of the rescue teams:
I'm so glad that you shared the reality of what life is like there. Too often mission trips are becoming mini vacations where you go someplace and see places but not the hands on, eye opening truth of the problems that people face. I hope that this reality stays with each member that they remember the main reason for missions is to help people with the side benefit of fellowship not the other way around.
ReplyDeleteThat being said I'm glad you had a time of fun before your big day of feeding people tomorrow. Awaiting your return to hear the stories you have to share.