John heads home and I'm in the Bronx

Well, a few things have happened so I'll toss out an update. I have gone from living in S Allison Hill in Harrisburg (where we heard gunshots yet again last night from our home) to living in the Bronx, NYC - where we have barred windows and are 2 blocks from the most active drug exchange blocks in the Bronx - thrilling eh? Actually, it hasn't been a big deal, I just walk in peace and carry myself confidentially and respect others. I've been able to engage in some lengthy conversations on the street and really enjoy the time - but I never underestimate the need for a cloaking of safety from the Lord.

Tonight the group (about 20 of us) served at a shelter. This was different than past experiences because we had to cook at the house and transport food for 150. While several people served, the rest of us made conversation with the men in the shelter. They were almost all in drug rehab and wanted to talk after taking a few minutes to warm up. I was able to use my baseball knowledge and New Yorks passion for baseball to break the ice and have several good, lengthy conversations and prayer with some men at the shelter. I would love to do this again and am starting to be able to understand this urban culture and the problems and lifestyles.

John Mutisya was an HDC guest for a little over a month and left for Kenya today. It was truly a blessing to get to know John - he is a leader of a discipleship training center in Kenya and was here to observe. It was his first time in the states and I pray he was refreshed through it. John and I were able to connect well and discuss much about leadership and discipleship. John offered to host me for a while after STEP if I feel led to Kenya and could assist in the their training program - who knows!!?

Here are a few pictures of John and I (we are pointing to the future in one in case you are wondering).