He lived behind our trash!

When Jack and I first moved into our apartment here in Colorado Springs, it was not long before we discovered someone living behind the trash bin. Because our front door faces this glorious view, we had a front row seat to homelessness.

Jack began to take Ray food and learned that he was 76 years old. His family does not know where he is and he was reluctant to talk much of himself. It was awful watching the rain pour onto Ray's cardboard shelter and feeling so helpless. Ray did not seem to want help so we took food, jackets and and prayed. One day when Ray was rummaging through the trash, I took him food and he decided to follow me home. After knocking on the neighbor's doors and asking for his "new friend", the neighbors call the police and Ray soon disappeared from our neighborhood.

In volunteering for the Springs Rescue Mission, I see homeless people almost every week. Kathy from one of the tent communities especially touched my heart. Knowing that someone I know was living outside during the recent arctic freeze was so difficult. We were unable to do anything for them because of our situation, so we prayed.

It has been a journey of trust to come to Colorado Springs. Each step of the way, God has provided. He provide a job for Jack when he was fired. He provided a place to stay in the home of missionary friends until I could get us moved. He provided money from friends and family until Jack began to earn his commission. He provided a Christian boss and a favorable workplace. He provided ministry opportunities. He provided a church, whose pastor speaks truth and walks in obedience. He continues to provide.

Trust does not come easily for me or for Jack. However, God is teaching us to walk daily in thankfulness and absolute trust. We are learning to see how much we have and to praise God for His riches in glory, out of which He supplies our needs. Each day we thank God for a place to live, hot showers, food, a car to get around, a job, our health and the freedom we enjoy, even if those things are threatened for the next day. We pray and we look for opportunities to encourage and bless others. God is so faithful. Praise His Holy name!