Blessed Portion Friday update for 9-27-24

“What is freedom worth to you?”

Hello Everyone,

It’s been a while since it rained on a Friday as much as it did tonight. I often wonder on nights like this if anyone will be out....and as I pull up each time there is always a line. Even in the pouring rain, there are smiles, hugs, and thankfulness. Tonight, there seemed to be more women in line than normal, and that tugs at my heart. Also in line was our friend Duane. It was his birthday a few weeks back and his celebration had to be delayed because of a hand surgery I had. Tonight, though we got to have it, and we hope he knows how loved he is.

BIG thanks to Ziffles for providing pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, and potato salad. Their generosity is so much appreciated by us. Also BIG thanks to Granite Ridge who sponsors the fourth Friday meal each month. They have been faithful in the rain, sleet, snow, and bad weather for many years, and we can’t thank them enough!! We certainly do not take anyone who helps us for granted.... each person involved in this ministry is needed and valued. It’s amazing to see what happens when people come together.

We talked with a friend at length tonight about what led him to where he is now in his life. We haven’t known him too long, but what we do know about him we enjoy. Tonight, he shared how he used to sell and make drugs. He shared how he made plenty of money and pretty much had everything he and his family needed.... except freedom. The night he got arrested he said he was relieved. Relieved to know it was all over. While in jail he detoxed from drugs and was able to get his mind free. Today he is working a full-time job, earning an honest wage, and is happy. He shared that he took the bus when he started his job, which was quite a pain. Now he has a ride to work, and while he only makes 12.00 or 14.00 dollars an hour (I can’t remember which one) he is happy. I admire his honesty, humility, and courage. His freedom is worth everything, and he’s determined to keep it. The stuff the world has to offer comes at a great price, and thankfully for our friend, he sees that.

We’re not all using or selling drugs, but there are times when all of us, sacrifice our freedom for things not of God. Maybe it is listening to the enemy's lies, being caught up in materialism, or even just wrong thinking. God though is faithful and will help us in our times of trouble....all we have to do is ask.

It was a wet, but good night, and were thankful for all who help us, and for all our friends. Thank you to Pathway Community Church, Grace Summit Church, Hamilton Church of Christ , Jery Nelson ,Christina King  Matt Yager, Blake Yager, Mandi Yager and her crew, Granite Ridge Builders, Matt AndLisa Bixel, Tracy Hine-Bullion, Dale Bullion, Michael Jordan, Noel, Wyatt Herbst, Trinity English Lutheran Church, Fort Wayne, Indiana and all who donate items and pray for us.

We currently need sizes large and above, men’s boxers or underwear, rain ponchos, men’s jeans. Please no women’s or children’s items as we have no room to store those.