An Unexpected Change of Plans On Thursday, September 26th, while many were hunkering down for the hurricane, with shops closing early and people rushing home, I felt led to keep my downtown lunch and outreach as scheduled from 12pm to 2pm. Originally, the plan was to go to Simple Greek, but due to the storm, they closed early. So, my friends and I decided to head to Barberitos downtown instead. A Rainy Start and a Welcoming Atmosphere By the time we arrived, the rain had started to settle in. Four of us were able to make it. We quickly jumped in line to order. I introduced myself to the lunch workers, and we struck up an easy conversation. They mentioned they would likely close early, too, but not until 2pm, so we had some time. After ordering our food, we sat at a large table near the front—a table I had never sat at before. Spreading Encouragement to Strangers As we spent time in fellowship and enjoyed our meal, I felt led to write encouraging notes to the Barberitos staff and to a couple seated in the restaurant. This way, each of us would be able to share a word of encouragement with someone. Thankfully, my friend Esther had pens and paper for everyone to use. We divided up the people, turned on some worship music, and invited the Lord to speak to us. Just as we began writing, the couple got up to leave. In a split-second decision, I approached them, introduced myself, and shared what I felt the Lord had placed on my heart. They smiled, and... Read more...
They say April is the month of showers, and this has indeed been the truth for the Redeem team. However, the team pushed past the rain and was ready to serve no matter what. Five new volunteers answered the call to serve those in the Human and Sex Trafficking wars. With these new hands on deck, we were able to minister to so many more families! We encountered one mother of three who recently rededicated her life to the Lord. She was staying in a local hotel, and we were able to bless her with prayer and encouragement. Several Families were blessed in the Budget Inn & Suites with meals and roses during our street outreach. On one such outreach, our team met a young 7-year-old boy with the desire to preach the word of God. The family shared with us that his uncle was killed due to gun violence 2 years ago. We were able to intercede for his walk with God and pray over him that his steps would always be ordered by the Lord. Our Redeem team is continuing to grow and take bold steps to minister to the lost. We are building relationships within the city and seeing hearts light up from those who are caught in the world of trafficking at the local clubs. We are so precious to our Father in Heaven; He cares for us. Please continue to keep the Redeem team in your prayers on Friday nights as we go out and share the love of Jesus. -Jaketra Bryant, Redeem Volunteer Coordinator If you would enjoy being a part of Redeem... Read more...
