The Sandwich Diaries

Moving on down the road....

2008-12-15T08:03:00.001-06:00

It's been a while so I thought I would write a little update.

The Cove is pretty much cleared out. We still drive by and if there is anyone there, we will make sure to hand out a sandwich.

The next exit down the highway is now where we meet. There are a few old friends...Rabbit...Mary and Joe and some new ones...Big Al, Bill, and to be honest...I can't remember the names of the others. Andy and Cameo have moved church to this location.

Winter is moving in and the nights are getting rough. We have given out blankets, socks and tents to the best of our ability. Rabbit is staying sober and is taking the spiritual lead for the group. They study the Bible and pray together. There is still tension that builds between them resulting in conflicts...not any different than my world.

Good or bad...right or wrong...I still have the assignment to feed them and it's not my business why they are there.

My prayer is for all of us in these last days to keep our hearts honest.

Church at the Cove...

2008-10-07T09:16:00.001-05:00

Brothers and Sisters,

This is going to be a little long but I felt I had to share..

As many of you know we started feeding the homeless on a corner we now call "The Cove" a little over a year ago. In the process a Church was started there and Brother Andy picked it up and has been preaching there faithfully for the entire time. This week Andy had to be out of town and being the faithful Minister that he is he asked if I would go preach on Sunday so they wouldn't be alone. I love all of these folks so it is an easy answer because rarely do I go there that I don't get Ministered to! Yesterday was no exception...

We showed up and there were only a couple of homeless folks there, Mary and Joe. This week Jack and Taz headed off north on a plan to homestead some land up in Utah, Wyoming or where ever it is available so we expected the turn out to be light. I pulled my bike right up in the middle because I wanted to share a Todd Agnew song and needed the stereo. We had just finished listening to the song, I got my Bible out and we were just beginning to share when a car drives up, a couple of folks get out and quickly head toward the intersection up on the interstate. We watched with curiosity as they come heading back with a young girl that looked about 8 that had Down Syndrome. The little girl was obviously alone and lost wandering in the middle of a VERY busy intersection.

It wasn't long before 2 police cars arrived and the 2 women were busy with them. The husband got his own small child and comes over to us, looks at me and says "I have that same Bible". We had a nice greeting, he said his name was John and he asked if we were ministering, I told him it was Church and he was welcome! We talked a little bit about what we were going to talk about and he produced a small pocket Bible which brought out some funny comments about concealed carry (You may have to be from Texas to appreciate that!) I opened my vest to show my concealed "Sword" in addition to the big one I had in my hands and we all laughed. He asked if he could read and promptly read just about everything I had on my notes from the earlier sermon at our Biker Church! I told him he would probably freak out if he saw my notes and we all laughed and said isn't that just like God! I wish all of you could have seen and felt the what we did as John stood there speaking and praying over us. God is Awesome!

Now the Cops are over with John's wife as she was over there praying the power of Jesus over that precious child . The parents had already called, been told where she was and they were on the way. They arrived and they were Muslims. Her mother teaches at the Muslim school that is right there, had gone to the restroom to come back and find her daughter gone. To see the Love of Christ reach out and help a child, no matter what the beliefs is an awesome thing. These wonderful believers of Christ see the little girl and go help. How awesome it is to see people serve with the Love of Christ and show EVERYONE no matter who they are..

This long story has a point.. God is out there working every day. Are you out there to help and to witness? Are you seeing miracles like this regularly? I can testify that if you are out there serving, watching, listening and paying attention you can be so blessed just like we were yesterday.. Where 2 or more are gathered HE will be with you.

One of the last things John said was "We had heard about the Christian bikers out here in this area" I asked how and he said "Through the grapevine" How awesome it is to be connected to the Vine! :-) (John 15: 5-8)

With Much Love,
Pastor Rick

Jack, Taz and BabyGirl...

2008-10-07T09:14:00.000-05:00

We have known for a while that Jack and Taz have been planning to move on. The plan was to leave at the end of October on bicycles taking with them Taz’s dog, “Baby Girl”. Andy, from Church at the Cove, contacted Rick Monday to let us know that they would be leaving Thursday...so Sandwich Day this week was bittersweet. I regret that we didn't have time to have a special gathering but as always, things usually line up just as they are suppose to be. The church down the street from The Cove now allows our friends to stay on their large covered porch which provides nice shelter, electricity and showers every other week. This church will have special blessings waiting on them in heaven...I giggle at the thought of some of these big fancy church monstrosities that are around to even consider offering a side of their building to help shelter these folks...I mean really...what would the neighbors think!! Jesus will sort all that out someday so I will try to leave that one alone.

Back to Sandwich Day…Me, Rick, Jerry, Randy and Cameo pulled up to see Jack and Taz working on one of the bike chains. Naturally, all guys migrated to the project and the expert advice was on. Susie was there along with Chris and Steve. Everyone took a sandwich and like so many times before…just hung out taking in the beautiful day. This is Thursday morning and if all has gone according to plan, Jack, Taz and Baby Girl are one the way to a new and better life. They have our address and have promised to stay in touch and we have promised to post their reports on the Sandwich Diaries. With that…my prayer is as follows:

Lord, In Jesus Name – thank you for the privilege of knowing Jack and Taz this past year. Thank you for allowing us to share the gospel with Jack and watch his faith grow stronger each day. Please use him as a powerful witness to the freedom that is found by making Jesus Lord and Savior. Lord, I know that Taz knows God and I believe he is more in tune with the Holy Spirit than he probably understands at this time…my request for Taz is for him to meet Jesus and form a relationship with the humanity of God. Please keep them protected and provided for as they travel. Please don’t let them forget us!

------ Vicki -----

Donny...

2008-09-04T08:51:00.000-05:00

As you may or may not have known Donny from the Cove was hospitalized a couple of weeks ago. His alcoholism had progressed to that level and his liver and other organs began to shut down. Yesterday he passed away quietly. I pray he was in no pain as he had been unconscious since the week-end.

Please pray for the Homeless that had adopted Donny as family and had taken care of him as good as possible in his last days.

As we approach the 1 year anniversary of feeding the homeless we have now lost 2 of them. Both were very gentle souls and were very much loved. I can't help but think that if someone, living wide awake, had encountered them earlier in their lives that things might have been different. We should always be watching for the opportunities to help at earliest possible moment.

Blessings
Rick

Dear Diary...

2008-08-12T10:25:00.000-05:00

I haven't written since the news about Pops. I received a sweet email from his cousin saying that the funeral was small yet sincere. She said that the preacher spoke of the Sandwich Crew and she was sure that we would have been pleased at what was said.

Church at the Cove is doing well. Andy is so faithful to show up each week and do what we have all been told to do...Go and Tell. Sunday was special. After Biker Church, JJ and I were given some bread to take to the Cove. We had the privilege to take along some folks who had not met our friends yet. Andy was just about to leave as we were walking up. It was good to see him. Jack has a bicycle now and said that he had rode to Jonestown and back...trust me...that's a ride! Mary, Taz, Teresa, Vinny and Rabbit were there. It was Teresa's birthday and she was sick and it was not a very happy day. Rabbit was in better shape than usual...saying that he is down to only 3 beers a day. It's funny how the alcoholic mind works. The truth is...as long as there is even a teaspoon of booze in your system...you are not getting better. I am qualified to say so. I look forward to the day that Rabbit will understand that. Vinny was in one of his good moods. It was Taz who made special effort to greet me with a hug.

It was good for me to watch our friends who came with us meet the Cove folks. I looked over and saw Irma just standing with Mary and holding hands with her. Sharon was talking and visiting and Jean actively listening to all conversation...I know her enough to know that she was praying over each one as they spoke. I have become familiar with the Cove folks and have lost the sensitivity that I had in the beginning. Taking new visitors to meet them restored some lost compassion...for that, I am grateful.

Gerald Lee Fuller

2008-07-21T12:44:00.001-05:00

Sgt Stressing of APD called me that Pops had been identified and the family had been notified. Pops name is Gerald Lee Fuller. I called the County Medical Examiner office and they gave me a funeral home in Kansas where he will be sent after being cremated here. I call the funeral home and was told that he has several cousins that were trying to make arrangements to bury him. The lady said that no one knew that he had been living on the streets. It has been about 8 years since anyone has heard from him. I sent the email to her that I had sent to the newspaper. I told her to pass it on to the family in hope that it may bring some comfort and insight to Pops last years. Below is the email I received from one of the cousins.

Miss Vicki,

Let me induce myself to you. My name is Glenda. I am a cousin to the man you called " POPS". I live here in Augusta, Kansas and I am the one who is making the final arrangements for Gerald Lee Fuller aka as Pops. Sandy the lady from the funeral home here in town printed off your e mail and I read it and was very touched by your words and how you truly loved Gerald. He was a loving person and one who seemed to be lost and not sure which way to turn. From reading your e mail I fell you did show him the way to our Lord. I can't say he truly found his way to Christ and accepted the way you and I know, but I am sure that Christ came to him and that he will be waiting for us in eternity.

I am going to make a copy of the e mail and send it to his brother Robert. Robert has had problems of his own and is coming to a 10 year end of time in jail. Robert called me on the 15 of July and told me that Jerry had passed away. At that time no one knew what truly had happen. Bob had ask me if I would make the arrangements. I told him I would do that for him and would keep him informed as the days went by. I would like to make this copy and send to Bob and let him know that someone cared and show how others share a part of their life. If it is ok with you that I do this I would be honored.

I know neither boy had gone to church at all, but I know down deep inside Christ was there. Their mother who was my fathers sister was raised in a christen home and that our Grandmother had taught her kids that Christ was in all of us and that we all were love and would once again meet in heaven. Please, let your Pastor know that his statement that Jerry was a veteran and a hero was true. Jerry was all that and more.

Wish you could be here in Kansas when we lay Jerry to rest in the family section of our cemetery. We are having him cremated and placed by his mother and father. I would love for the rest of the cousins to hear what someone has to say and how sweet he truly was. You open my eyes and showed me a different side of Jerry that no one else has seen. Thank you for that.

I know this has been very long, but I had to share my thoughts with you and say how nice it was to see that someone cared. I am going to share one thing with you. Jerry " POPS" was a very educated person. He had been to college and had a degree in education. Not only that but I know you knew he had been in the service. He was in the Army and got out and went to school and got his degree and went back into the Air Force. I am not sure how many years he was in, but I know he serviced with pride and honor. Their father was a 31 year Army man. I never looked down on Jerry nor his brother. They were both not just cousins but I accepted them as two other brothers. I think that is why his death has been a little hard on me, but I have seen the good in him and accept his life and praise him for the good. Hope you understand what I mean here.

Vicki please accept my thanks for your e mail and all the nice wonderful words you shared and the love you had for him. If you can send me your address so I can send you a booklet on his funeral I would like that. Please let everyone know how grateful the family is for knowing others cared and shared their life with him. I am sure he is setting in heaven looking down and smiling.

A Tribute to "Pops"

2008-07-14T09:21:00.003-05:00

Homeless man found dead under bridge

By Patrick George | Sunday, July 13, 2008, 03:58 PM

"A 63-year-old man known to police as a transient was found dead under a bridge Sunday morning, police said.

The man, who went by the name of “Pops,” was discovered under Braker Lane and Interstate 35, said Austin Police Sgt. Richard Stresing. His real name has not been released. Stresing said police don’t believe foul play was involved, and that the death was possibly natural."

--end Statesman article--

Dear Mr. George:

My heart grieves as I send this to you. My name is Vicki and I am proud to be a member of a group that we call the Sandwich Crew. For almost a year now, each Tuesday, we have been going out on our lunch break and handing out sandwiches to the homeless folks on a route that includes the Braker / IH 35 corner. We have been documenting these trips on a blog, which we call the Sandwich Diaries. Here is the link: http://sandwichdiaries.blogspot.com/

We know Pops and in his honor, I have copied entries from the dairies below. We ride motorcycles and are Members of Bikers for Christ ministry. I rode right past Pops Sunday morning on my way to church…if I had only known… Due to work schedules, we had to stop going to this intersection so it’s been a while since we have seen Pops. I believe that we will all have sandwiches together in eternity – where there will be no more tears and no more pain. I refuse to allow him to die as just another homeless man. Rick, a member of the Crew and Pastor of our church, wanted it to be noted that "Pops was a veteran and a hero in my book ... He always knew our names and always asked about the ones that couldn't make it".

Today we will be taking flowers to the Braker corner. Pops we love you and you are missed. The last entry says it all.

Sandwich Day #3 – 9/25/07
Pops – We met him last week but he just wandered up and got lunch and left. This week we spoke for a while. He says that God created the world for us to mess up. I asked him if he knew Jesus and he just nodded his head like saying no. I told him that Jesus was his hope for eternity. I’m not sure if he understood me over the roar of the traffic going by. I pray that next week I will have another chance to explain.

Sandwich Day #9 – 11/6/07
POPS!!! So good to see him! It's been a couple of weeks. Rick and I visit with Pops for a few minutes when Rick sees a guy under the bridge. So off Rick goes for more lunches and I stay with Pops. For an instance, you now can see me on the corner with Pops, Jerry on the other side of the highway and Rick under the bridge. Pops gives me his sign. So for a moment - I stood in Pops shoes - holding a sign watching cars pass by. I was holding the sign with one hand and give the peace sign with the other. I recommend everyone to experience this. Only one guy looked and gave the peace sign back. No one else even looked...or at least they made darn sure that I didn't see them look. I asked Pops if he is happy. He said yes. He said there is a difference in being alone and being lonely. I understand that one. I asked him how he was doing with Jesus and he just smiled. I told him that I was still praying for him and I could tell that he was ok with that. Pops is really cool. Dear Lord, please, let's not lose him!

Sandwich Day #10 – 11/13/07
I have never been under the bridge of a highway. It is VERY NOISY. Pops and James are there. When Pops sees me he says..."Hi Baby Girl!" That was all I was able to hear the whole conversation...but it was enough! They received the sack lunches and the pair of boots that Rick had brought to Pops. Pops and I threw each other a kiss goodbye and it was time to climb back up to the frontage road.

Sandwich Day #14 – 12/11/07
I saw Pop!! It’s been several weeks since we have visited. He was looking good…had a new hat. Sheldon shared his faith in Jesus and Mike just likes to talk allot! I asked Pop if he has given Jesus anymore thought and he said no. I continue to pray for his breakthrough.

Sandwich Day #15 – 12/15/07
Pop gave me a hug. I asked him if he had given Jesus any thought and he said that he thinks about Jesus every day. I wonder if Pop is pulling my chain. Last visit he tells me he had not given any thought to Jesus. It’s ok…I love him anyway!

------------

James 1:17
"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

If we only decided each and every day to live in such a way. That each day is a perfect gift from the Father. Stop frowning, start smiling and look at what you have today and thank Him for it. Start a new life today by accepting Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, because tomorrow may be too late.

Questions on understanding who Jesus was and what he did for you?

Understanding the Gospel of Jesus Christ
The Bridge

Sandwich Day 30 - June 8, 2008

2008-06-20T06:53:00.002-05:00

Until we meet again....and we will...

Dear Diary – I need to tell about a very special day. First, I guess I need to give a brief update since the last time I wrote. Our friends were spotted again by Rick the following day which made me glad that they had not moved on. The next week when I saw them, they said that they found the bag of sandwiches and the note that I had left.

Sandwich Day has continued every Tuesday. Rabbit is still in rehab…he will be there for a 5 month stay which in my opinion is a good thing. Jack and Susie had an opportunity for a job that would provide a place to live and money but that did not work out for reasons that I will keep out of this public diary. Since then, they have split up. Susie is now working at a different location and living with new friends. Jack has stayed away on Tuesdays – working the other side of the highway. He apparently was pretty upset about missing out on the job and Susie leaving. A few weeks ago Hopper and Manson mentioned that they were ready to move back to El Paso. They have friends there and Manson is set up for better medical assistance. Rick checked into bus tickets and it worked out that our church was able to provide Hopper and Manson a way back…which brings us to the farewell party for Hopper and Manson last Sunday.

My friend JJ and I pulled up to see Wheeler already there. Makes me smile at how much these folks have become our friends. Jack was there and it did my heart good to see him. I can tell things have been rough for him but I can also tell that he is strong and will get through. I asked him if he was still reading his Bible and he assured me that he was. This was the first time for JJ to visit The Cove. It was fun to watch her introduce herself to all and watch everyone welcome her. The group had been partying the night before and all were pretty hung over. Me, JJ and Wheeler went across the street and bought a couple of boxes of chicken and bottled water. Some really nice folks from a near by church brought two big sacks of soft tacos. We had plenty of food – shade and breeze on this extremely hot June day. All in all, there was about eight to nine bikes parked and if you were a passer by…you would see allot of bikers hanging out with the best homeless folks around…munching chicken and tacos…all laughing and taking in a God given day.

Andy and Cameo pulled up on their bike for “Church at the Cove”. They have been so faithful every Sunday to keep it going. Once again, I watch the unity of everyone and I know in my heart this is what Jesus enjoys seeing most amongst His people…relationship. Andy’s message was perfect for the occasion. He spoke from the book of Matthew when Jesus was about to ascend to heaven. He told his disciples to GO AND TELL! He told Hopper and Manson that they were to remember to take the message with them. We all held hands and prayed and once again…I was proud to be a part of the group to be seen by so many cars passing by. The afternoon was winding down and it was time for Rick to take Hopper and Manson to the bus station. Hopper came over to me and said “Thank you Miss Vicki for everything”…and we both let a few tears fall. JJ and I prayed over Hopper for safety and blessings. It was bitter sweet watching Teresa, Taz, Jack and TJ say their goodbyes.

We watched them load up in Rick’s car and we all waved and yahooed as they pulled away. Bless them Lord and thank you for the honor to know them.

---------- Vicki

Sandwich Day 29 - April 29, 2008

2008-05-05T09:03:00.001-05:00

Dear Diary – as promised, I would write when I felt something is needed to be said.

Last week, 4/22, Rick and I went to The Cove and visited with Jack, Susie, Hopper and Taz. Not much going on. News has it that Rabbit is in rehab which is good to know…I pray that this time it takes. Hopper was “edgy”…said that he was in a bad mood. I noticed that Taz seemed a little put out. They appreciated the sandwiches and juice. It was good to see Jack…it’s been a while. He is still sober and reading his Bible. Susie was just being Susie.

Today, 4/29, I went to The Cove by myself as Jerry and Rick had to do the work thing. Since we started Sandwich Day last September – today…there…was…no…one…there. It was a pretty day and I was expecting to see them all gathered and waiting like so many times before. I went around the corner and had lunch thinking they would show up. No one was there when I went back. I realized how much a part of my days these folks have become. I wrote a note saying that I missed them and left it with the sandwiches and juice. As of today, I don’t know if they showed or not. As I write, I feel a little sad and wonder what’s going on. I wonder if the police told them to move on. Once again, I am reminded that life and friends are precious…and…not…to…be…taken…lightly.

What if…I never saw these friends again? If I do…I promise to tell them that they are important to me and I value them.

--Vicki

Sandwich Day 28 - April 8, 2008

2008-04-14T10:13:00.001-05:00

Dear Diary,

It has been 2 weeks since I have written and week #3 is upon me. Sandwich Day is still going....Mystery Angel continues to bring juice boxes...Gaye and Sam still sends delicious homemade cookies and muffins.

At this time, The Cove is the only visit that is being made. The group is small. It's been weeks since I've seen Teresa and Vinny. I understand that Mary is back with Joe camping somewhere several exits away. I'm not sure where Donny and Manson are, for a while, I think they were with Mary and Joe. Rumor has it that Rabbit is not welcomed with the Cove group as he has taken company with a lady who is strung out on herione. The Cove draws a line on hard core users.

Susie and Jack...Taz...Hopper...Ryan are left these days. We continue to take sandwich lunches on Tuesdays. Work right now is demanding and we have to keep our prioirity in order. God is faithful to allow time for this one sandwich run to the Cove and as long as the door is opened to do so...sandwiches will be delivered.

I ask God if this assignment is coming to an end and so far the answer I am following is..."Not yet". I have decided to not journal every trip. Each trip is still a blessing but I find that writing for the sake of writing is not what this is about. I will make entries when there is a need. Otherwise...please keep the Sandwich Crew lifted up in prayer all for God's glory. For those who have continued to look in each week...please continue to do so as Cameo and Andy are also remaining faithful with The Church at The Cove.

So until my next entry...I pray this finds you and your family blessed and at peace with God. This is your God given day...make it count!!

Vicki

---------------------

Sandwich Day 27 - March 25, 2008

2008-03-28T09:19:00.000-05:00

Special Thanks:

Mystery Angel - Juice Boxes / Bottled Water - so much appreciated!

Gaye and Sam - Banana Muffins - Delicious!!

Crew: Me - Rick and Jerry stuck in a work thing.

Luke 12:29-31 (New Living Translation) “And don’t be concerned about what to eat and what to drink. Don’t worry about such things. These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers all over the world, but your Father already knows your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need".

The Cove:

Susie - Jack - Rabbit

Work is hectic and the sandwich run is becoming short and sweet. Jack and Susie greeted me and Rabbit was working the corner. I gave them the box of sandwiches, juice and muffins. They were hungry and helped themselves. They are building another home...Susie says it is better than the last...she calls this one her condo. Jack is staying sober and still reading his Bible. I didn't have time to stay longer so we said our goodbyes and I made a note to make it to the Sunday church at the Cove. As I drove away I saw Manson and Hopper walking up. I caught Hopper's attention and we waved at each other...there was a special sandwich waiting for him. It was a pretty day and I'm glad that I got to see them even though it was brief.

I pray special favor from God over you! These are the last days - not meant to instill fear but to keep awareness of our priorities.

-Vicki

Church at the Cove : March 23, 2008

2008-03-26T14:01:00.000-05:00

Sunday was a blessing to us. Mary and Donny came to church with us. No one else was waiting to go to church.

Mary seemed very happy to be there. Donny is just so happy to be in church. We picked them up at 8:40. We all got to church and ate brunch. There were several people that came up to them and just welcomed them back. People sat and talked to them. They fit in so good and seem so content. Mary seemed a little nervous and when Donny got to interact with the kids he just let out this laugh of joy that made me want to cry. At 10 we started the service and Donny and Mary just listened so close. The sermon was that of celebration for the Resurrection of Jesus. After service Donny was so tired so we went home. I took them home with some quiche and some grapes. I was told that Joe had to stay home and watch the dogs.

I got a quiche for the Cove group and when I went out there I seen Taz, Ron, Manson, Hopper, Vinny all sitting there so I dropped off some sweats and a quiche for them so enjoy.

Easter is a celebration of God's love and let it be present to all.

God Bless
Cameo

Sandwich Day 26 - March 18, 2008

2008-03-24T09:02:00.000-05:00

Special Thanks: Mystery Angel, you are so faithful - juice boxes

Crew: Me and Rick

Menu: Sandwiches and juice

The Cove: Susie - Rabbit

I just realized that I have not written to Sandwich Day (3/11)...maybe every trip doesn't need to be written to...but maybe I'm just trying to make my excuse. Rabbit is pumped up with caffine and trying hard to control his drinking. I pray that someday he will understand that he cannot control it...until he stops...it will always control him. We all have something that is controlling us...it's our choice of what that will be.

3/17/08 (Monday) - Tomorrow is Sandwich Day again...big rain storms are in the forecast. I am going to take sandwiches today as I know that everyone will be trying to stay dry tomorrow. The sandwiches are not made so I put the loaf of bread and sandwich meat and one last package of juice boxes in a grocery bag. This week they will just have to make their own!

Crew: Me and Rick

The Cove: Jack-Hopper-Taz-Ryan-Manson-Rabbit

It was good to see Jack. He has been working to get the new camp set up. The weather has been a mixture of winds and rain and more is expected. He is staying sober and his eyes are clear. Rabbit is working the corner. Hopper gave me a verse, James 1:12, he said that it reminded him of me. "God blesses the people who patiently endure testing..." He said that I was patient. Out of all the descriptions that can be made, I would never expect to be called patient! Today was the first time that I had the opportunity to speak with Taz. I had given him some quotes from a book I was reading. It spoke of how our soul craves God. He said that there were several things that he really liked. Ryan is a new guy. He doesn't say much but is always listening and quietly smiles at different comments that are made.

Wednesday (3/19)

Mystery Angel has left bottle water on my desk...Thank you!

Gaye is back in the saddle!! She sent homemade brownies!!

Rick gets a call from Danny and Maggie who stays at another site. They were ran out of their camp and lost everything. They had slept in the rain and were in big need of help. Maggie is in a wheelchair and Danny is always their to take care of her. We picked up a coat and blanket from the Goodwill and Rick bought some T-shirts that were on sale. When we got to them, they were working the intersection. The wind was blowing and she was so very cold sitting in that wheelchair in wet clothes. We helped her into the coat and a pair of knitted gloves and wrapped her in the blanket. It helped some. Rick ministered to Danny off on the side. We all gathered together and prayed. We just prayed. He is a faithful God and I know He heard and will answer. Faith has to step in at this point because my logic doesn't understand the how and the why of this world.

The Cove: Hopper-Ryan-Taz-Mary-Rabbit

We brought the brownies and T-shirts to our special group of friends. Mary pulled me aside and asked for prayer. She knows that she needs to stop drinking. She is having health problems and should be going to the hospital for a check. We prayed together. I got to tell ya...Jesus walked among large crowds like this everyday...

Sandwich Day 25 - March 4, 2008

2008-03-06T08:13:00.002-06:00

Special Thanks:

Shawn and Stacey – big box of warm clothes and blankets

Mystery Angel: juice boxes and apple sauce

Special prayer request for Gaye asking for healing of broken foot - we love and appreciate you!!

Menu: Sandwiches, juice and apple sauce.

Crew: Me and Jerry – Rick is stuck in business.

The Cove

Rabbit - Hopper - Manson - Susie - Taz working the corner

The group is small. The day before took a big toll on everyone. It had been very windy and cold. Teresa was at the camp and not feeling well. Jack and Vinny were working to clean up tents that had been flooded. We handed over the lunches and clothes. Little did we know that Mary had left a message on Rick's phone asking that we stop down the road to see them. Sounds like her, Joe and Donny have moved there. Seems like Sandwich Day is shrinking but I'm so grateful that they are coming together for Church on Sundays. I gave Susie pictures that Cameo had developed for her. They were shots of the old camp site. Susie was so happy to get them. She started to get sad about the little house that they had to leave. She said that Jack was working on a new one. Rabbit wasn't doing so good. He is drinking and saying stupid things. I love Rabbit but I despise the alcohol. My patience was short with him on this day. Rabbit is a total different person when drinking. Like it or not...no matter who you are...how much you drink...the truth is the moment the first drop of alcohol hits yours system...you have been altered and you have opened the door for deception. Jesus called Satan the "Father of Lies"... which is another name for deception. Satan cannot enter unless you open the door. I just want to scream and start slamming doors shut!! But I can't do it for him...excuse me...just some old garbage trying to rise up. So with all said...my prayer is for all to take these last days one at a time...get before our God and make peace with him.

----------Vicki

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the day approaching. --Hebrews 10:25

It has been a few weeks since I have been out on Sandwich Day and can see the toll the weather and circumstances have taken on the few that were at the Cove today. It's hard enough dealing with the day to day worldly things that are thrown at us every day all day. Throw in being without a home on top of the ever changing weather and it can drag you down. We find ourselves in back in the "Slow Fade"...When we are down and stray away from the Word, we find ourselves looking for "alternative" outlets.

Hold each other accountable with Love, Compassion and Strength so that we may all persevere and live the life that God has intended us to.

Hebrews 10:25 calls us to encourage each other and lean on each other...Without Christ, then each other, we will not persevere. Glory be to God that The Cove has become a place of worship on Sundays and I pray that continues to reach all those in the area who seek Him.

----------Jerry

Church at the Cove : March 2, 2008

2008-03-04T08:40:00.001-06:00

This day started rough for Andy. He was real sick but is just hard headed enough and wanted to go. We got out there and it was real windy and Andy had a quick recovery time. He was loaded with the spirit!!!! Thanks be to God!!

We had a great crowd:
Taz
Mary
Tereasa
Suzie
Jack
Joe
Manson
Rabbit
Donny
Hopper

God again blessed us through all the people that took time to come. It was a little rainy and as I said very windy. Andy taught from Luke 3 1-14 and Psalm 2 10-12. In these verses the main point we wanted to make was the importance to fear God as much as you should feel his love. There is not black and white with God. The scripture from Luke was about John talking to people in his diverse way and it was not too kind but people listened. The questions they asked where easy to answer but hard to do for some people. This was beautiful and Hopper was full of input. Mary drew a picture of a cross and on each side and under it has Hell writ en and on top it had written Heaven. She found this under a overpass and remembered it for many years. Hopper told a story of the train jumpers. The people use to get food and leave what they did not eat with a note for the next person to eat it. Which was just what John told the people to do when they have fed themselves to give the rest to others who do not have anything.

When it came time for prayer we had a lot of requests and thanks be to God. Rabbit had a great prayer it was like the Rabbit we all loved. Rabbit seemed real alert today and cried a few times. Mary was very sad. We prayed a silent prayer for her. After all was done we took Mary and Donny to the next exit so Mary could take Donny home. He is having a hard time with his back.

This was a good day and as usual Andy and I got so much out of sharing our Lord. All glory goes to God.

John 3:16-17
"16For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.17 God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him."

God Bless
Cameo

Sandwich Day 24 - February 26, 2008

2008-02-28T09:09:00.001-06:00

Special Thanks:

Gaye and Sam – Homemade Oatmeal Cookies!

Mystery Angel – juice boxes

Katheen – Homemade Banana Muffins – HMMMMM!!

Menu: Sandwiches – juice – cookies – muffins

CREW: Me and Pete – Rick is out of town on business and Jerry had a work thing.

The Cove:

Today will be a quick trip due to afternoon meetings at work. We arrive to see Vinny walking to the car to greet us. He is all smiles and joking. I've seen him before in this upbeat mood and he is a truly likeable guy. We join the rest at the wall. There is Susie, Teresa, Donny, and Manson is working the corner. As everyone is munching lunch, Patrick the photographer walked up. He had promised to bring some pictures that he had taken of everyone a few months ago. He couldn't stay but it was a blessing to see him. Then a cab pulls up and drops Rabbit off! He has been in the hospital for several weeks. It was good to see him sober. He was quite as he heard the news that everyone was having to move. Life in this community is truly one day at a time. Vinny told me that he needed to get back to God. This is what I long to hear! He believes in Jesus as his Lord and savior but says that he keeps getting off the path. Man, I can relate to that! I told him that if we could just understand the love of God, staying on the path would be a snap. If we could truly receive this love, there would be nothing that would pull us from the path. God is love. My heart longs to truly get this. He promised to be at church this Sunday. I look forward to seeing him then. Donny told me that earlier he was handing a twenty dollar bill to Manson and the wind caught it and blew away. Donny told Manson that he had to work the corner until he made the money back...so Manson was in "time out". He did promise to give Manson some lunch. Vinny said that Mary and Hopper were down the road. He was going to be seeing them later and he promised to take them lunch. It was time to go so we said a prayer and our goodbye. Taz and Jack were walking up as we were driving away so we all waved at each other. I hope to be able to visit with them soon. We waived at Donny on the corner as we went by. I hope he made the twenty back so he could go have lunch!

The Bible says to not grow weary of doing good...to be honest, I'm getting a little weary. So my prayer is for fresh fire - in Jesus name.

I just read a quote from James Dean..."Dream like you will live forever...live as if you will die today"...from a kid who died at age 25.

----------Vicki

There’s been times when I’ve been confronted with this question. I however have options and time to make decisions and to co-ordinate a move. Today was the 1st day that I went out to do one of the commandments my God has commanded me to do, this year. That is to feed the homeless and the poor.

I haven’t been completely out of the loop on what’s been going on with the congregations of homeless folks I’ve been volunteering to help out since I was last out there a week before 12 – 25. I’ve heard that there’s been some internal conflict. I imagine that being homeless and unemployed can introduce levels of stress that can only be known by those that are actually out there sleeping on concrete and dirt.

Let’s add to the stress a factor that involves the local police men having to go out and run off the homeless from their camps. I looked back there where their original camp was located and I don’t see any bulldozers. The last stop that I went out on, before 12-25, it’s completely bull dozed down.

Today it was only Vicky and myself that went to deliver sandwiches, snacks and beverages. When we pulled up I only saw 4 people sitting on the rock wall and one on the street side flying a sign.

They waved at us when we pulled up and parked. As I walked over to where they were sitting another man that hadn’t been out there since I was last out there also showed up at the same time. This guy, whose name and church affiliation I’ll leave anonymous, was out there the last time I was out there taking several photos. I happen to be in several of those photo’s and I don’t like my photo to be taken, but I’ll make exceptions for Christian churches. I’ll admit the photo’s were of excellent quality and they were good work for sure.

I asked them a lot of questions about their camp and about what was going on and about how they are approached by the police. They were a bit hesitant, but they also seem to be able to trust me. I had asked 1st about the camp that was only a few feet away and about what happened. A woman spoke to me and said that the police went into their camp and gave them 2 days to move. I asked, what would they do if you don’t move? She said that it has happened to her in the past that the police will slash their tents and kick their electronics damaging them, tv’s, radios, stuff like that.

Apparently they moved a little further away but were confronted by the police again. They were told to move. The woman speaking to me made a point to mention to me that the policemen had also mentioned to her that they didn’t want to have to tell them to move. I guess they had orders. I’m also guessing that the local businesses are running them off.

She wanted me to understand that there are both good and bad cops. She said that when she was living homeless in Tennessee, that the police were killing the homeless people so they would all leave town. Maybe that’s why she moved to Texas? I find it difficult to believe that an Austin policeman would go to the extreme of slashing the tents of homeless people, but you never know ey.

As I was squatting on the ground, talking to a couple of the folks, Rabbit came walking up. His face was shaved! He said he had just spent two weeks in the hospital for depression. I heard that he wanted to commit suicide and a church down the street had him committed for his safety. I was happy to see that he is in good health.

They were all happy to get their sandwiches and snacks. Someone had donated some homemade banana nut muffins. I have one on my desk, but not for long. Those seemed to be their favorite.

We couldn’t stay very long. Rick was not here today and Vicky has a meeting coming up. It was a short visit.

It wasn’t too long ago that I too would be repulsed by homeless people. I always said to them to go get a job. I remember times that when I took my kids to a restaurant like McDonalds or something like that and I saw a homeless person I would try and distance myself from them. I remember thinking that they stank and that they should just go jump in a river or something. Perhaps this is the same mentality that everyone else has and the reason why the homeless are treated so harshly.

Jesus said that we will always have the homeless with us and that we should feed them. Even in the torah God gave a commandment for the ranchers to leave the corners of their crops unharvested for the poor to pick from for food. It should be more than obvious that god doesn’t want the poor and homeless to be rebuked but to be cared for. Jesus also said that when we care for those that are injured and for those that are homeless and hungry that we are caring for him. So, does that mean when we rebuke the injured, the homeless and hungry that we are rebuking Christ?

----------Peter

Sandwich Day 23 - February 12, 2008

2008-02-22T08:02:00.001-06:00

Special Thanks to:
Gaye and Sam - Those awesome homemade oatmeal cookies!!
Mystery Angel: Juice boxes - apple sauce - small boxes of raisins

I want to take a minute to reflect on the giving hearts like these mentioned above and others that have jumped in to selflessly GIVE. This is what God is all about - it is what we are called to do. My hope and faith has been in such need of restoration and being a part of the love that has reached out to those in need has benefited me more than I can explain. So I guess I will continue to say thank you...even though it just doesn't seem like enough... that's another thing that I have learned...you just can't give enough...or love enough...kind of exasperating but worth the challenge.

Menu: Sandwiches - cookies - juice - apple sauce - boxed raisins
Crew: Me and Rick - Jerry had to stay back at the last minute due to a work thing.

The Cove:
Mary - Teresa - Hopper - Susie - Donny - Manson - Taz (working the corner, never came over to see us)

We were met with bad news. The police has given our friends 48 hours to move out. Jack and Vinny were already out looking for a new place to go. Everyone was waiting for us then ready to get started for the next move. This is the way life goes for them. There has been internal strife and the group will be splitting up and going separate ways. As I write, I am not even sure if we will have church at the Cove this Sunday. They have Rick's number but so far they have not called. I will drive by today (Friday) and get an update. I trust that God is working His plan. Things change...but God doesn't...so I will continue to trust. It may be time to focus on the countless others that need a touch from God. So my prayer today is that we will be able to stay in touch with the relationships that have been formed and to look forward to the new ones ahead.

Sandwich Day 23 - February 12, 2008

2008-02-15T10:11:00.000-06:00

Special Thanks to:

Mystery Angel - juice boxes – this is so appreciated.

Gaye and Sam - Homemade Peanut Butter & Oatmeal Cookies!! Yep – that’s right…Peanut Butter and Oatmeal…special request to Collette from Pop…and man…they were GOOD!!

Menu: Sandwich - Juice - Cookies

Crew: Me and Rick

The Cove:

The rain had just past and there was no one at the Cove. We circled around and just went to the camp. John M. was there unloading a couple of boxes of food. It's always good to run into him. He is a faithful servant who has many crowns waiting for him. We joined him as we walked the path into the wooded area where all of the tents are...yelling "Incoming". Here comes Bingo the dog barking at us which makes us stop until she gives us permission to continue. Then I hear the others identifying us - saying things like...It's Rick, John and there's Vicki. Kinda like being privey to a secret club. I was prophesied over about a year ago and I was told that I would be going where allot of people will never go. Well - mark one up for the prophet! Everyone is there except Vinny and Rabbit. Jack is doing so good. Staying off the booze...reading his Bible...God is changing him right before all of the others. I pray they all take his lead. Hopper has fun as he models the new jeans given to him from last week...asking if they make his butt look big. Mary is cooking stew on the new camp stove that Jack got for his birthday. Manson is having a hard time. He needs to get to the hospital to get medication so Rick agrees for us to give him a ride. We say our good byes and get our hugs and thanks from everyone and off we go with Manson to the hospital. Manson is in the back seat and starts crying. Rick asks him what is wrong and the reply is..."I'm not use to being loved". This was one of those moments that I file away. The Bible says that God is love - to love your neighbor - love conquers all - above all commandments, love is over all. As long as Satan keeps strife amongst us and we allow it to keep us divided and in discord – we stay separted from God. How cool it would be for everyone in this world all at the same time to experience this moment with Manson. We get to the hospital and Rick takes Manson in to make sure that he gets taken care of.

The Edge:

We see Lefty on the corner. We are running short of time so we gave him the remaining lunches. He tells us that he will be moving on soon. Rick ask him if he is going to go see family and the reply is..."Why would I go to see family...you are my family". It's like God blessed us twice in one day with reminders of the love and hope this world is in such need of.

--Vicki-----------

Church at the Cove : February 10, 2008

2008-02-11T11:15:00.000-06:00

This Sunday was great and such a blessing to all of us. Suzie, Jack, Donny, Teressa, Mary, and Manson were all there this Sunday and Hopper came up at the end to hug our necks. The message came from Mathew 20:20...

Andy brought a beautiful message about the importance of our salvation and how our Ransom has been paid by Jesus dieing on the cross. Mary expressed her love for the Lord. There were tears and praises. Andy is a good teacher and took us to several verses in the Bible just to prove that we are not slaves to our sins and we are forgiven. Mary expressed that God is our mediator and I thought that is a good insight. Mary said her dad taught her that and that is cool. Landell came to be with us this Sunday and what a testimony he gave. It was great what God has done in his life. Rick gave a testimony about his walk. It meant a lot to everyone. He is so full of the spirit and the folks from the cove love him so much. I saw several people with big tears. I know God is working and everyday God opens our eyes to see as he sees.

Jack had a birthday and I brought him a cake and a card. We all sang happy birthday and he just had tears and as we were doing this Suzie just watched him and cried. After we wrapped things up Rick, Landell, and Mike all followed me, Andy and Jack to Walmart. Donny had given Jack money for his birthday to get a battery charger. We all went into Walmart and the guys got Jack a stove to cook on for the camp and gave it to him. Jack just cried all the way home. He was so thankful. Jack has a long hard walk in front of him but he is the light shining there for all the folks. Jack has come a long way and Rick prayed for him especially because as Christians know it does not get easier when you become a Christian it becomes harder and the devil will attack harder...so we pray for his walk.

Let all us pray to see and then to walk with no fear!

God Bless
Cameo

Sandwich Day 22 - February 5, 2008

2008-02-07T15:47:00.000-06:00

From Erwin Raphael McManus…if you don’t know this guy – I highly recommend you read some of his stuff.

Givers are unexplainably FULL.Generosity increases our capacity to bless others. When generosity is unleashed, it flows to every area of our lives.Generous people give more than their things; they genuinely give themselves. In the most marvelous of ways, those who give most freely live most freely.

LIFE IS MOST ENJOYED WHEN WE GIVE OURSELVES AWAY!!

Special Thanks to:

Gaye and Sam - Homemade Oatmeal CookiesMystery Angel - juice boxesMenu: Sacked Lunches - Cookies - Juice

Crew: Me - Rick - Jerry

The Cove

Almost the whole gang was there...only Vinny was missing. Jack-Susie-Rabbit-Teresa-Taz-Hopper-Manson-Donny

Have you ever just dropped by to say “hi” to a friend? Nothing really going on…nothing much to say…just dropping by. That’s how it was on this day. The weather was nice and everyone was just taking it in. Nothing special going on. Everyone took a lunch and munched. They are such a blessing.

The Edge

We saw Lefty on the corner and he was hollering at us as we approached. He was in a great mood - was very happy to see us. He had two new folks with him...Justin and Kevin. Rick and Jerry visited with Lefty and Kevin and I chatted with Justin. He says he is just on a "walk about"...from Baton Rouge! What an interesting perspective. He is another one that just doesn't seem to fit on the streets. He knows the Bible and loves the Lord. There is a good heart there – as he spoke there was a sadness in his expression that has come from his past. I have a feeling that he will be moving on soon. It was a blessing to have the time to visit with him.

--Vicki----------

It was a nice day weather wise which always seems like an answered prayer knowing that we have folks living in tents..

Everyone was there and in good spirits. This week we have 2 birthdays, Manson's on the 7th and Jack's on the 10th. They are excited as anyone about birthdays and even small gifts hold tremendous value to them just because of the fact you remembered.

I had noticed Manson wore some old cut off gloves like my riding gloves. Mine had 30,000 miles on them and were worn out smooth out. I got a new pair for the coming season but didn't have the heart to throw out my old friends. I figured Manson would at least appreciate where they had been because he has ridden and his Dad still rides. I gave him the old ones and bought him a new pair feeling like giving him an old junk pair of gloves wasn't much of a gift. Was I wrong! His eyes lit up as soon as he saw the old gloves. I told him they had 30,000 miles on them as he quickly pulled them on. He was so excited! He took the new gloves and handed them straight to Jack and said he got the GOOD ones. I was so happy to see my favorites going to someone who really appreciated them. Manson called his Dad from my phone and left a message. I got a hold of him later and told him Manson was doing better than he was a couple of months ago and that if he needed anything I would try and help.

It was a quite day. You can still see the Holy Spirit moving in Jack. He has quit drinking and I feel like he is frustrated with the others as he wants to help them now but like us, he has a hard time finding the way. Only Jesus changes people. He has changed Jack and he wants so badly for it to change the others too. Winter is wearing on these folks. Little internal squabbles are flaring up. We didn't see any of this when it was warm. I hate to see them having issues and will be glad when cold is no longer a major factor in their lives. It causes them to do desperate things and get selfish.

At the Edge Lefty was very happy to see us. He told me he had just done 90 days in jail for criminal trespass. He slept some where he shouldn't have and got busted. He did say he got a great tent out of the deal when they released him from jail. Did God just keep him warm through the toughest part of winter then get him a tent? Only Lefty and God know.. Lefty is always smiling, out going and talkative. He was working the corner hard and isn't bashful about talking to anyone in cars. He had a hand full of change and tried to give it to me when I told him we still didn't have the bus finished.. Money doesn't have the same value to these folks as it does to us. They know God will meet all of their basic needs and the cash is for extras..

Always Smiling...Lefty

--Rick----------

Psalm 119:11

"I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."

We are called to study His word and to hide it in our hearts so that it may be ready to use when the time is here. I asked a friend of mine how his time in the Word was going. He replied like so many of us would. "He's been pretty busy, not having much time to dig into it”. I completely understand his statement. I struggle each and every day with "making time for God". It is very difficult to become obedient to our God and get in touch with His word on a daily basis, because frankly we fid something else to do. However through the power of prayer we can take that struggle to the Lord and ask for his help in becoming an obedient disciple, through His word. Making a time each and every day for daily devotions to our Lord is a great way for Him to reveal Himself to us.

I pray that each and every one of us, that are seeking to know Jesus more and more each day, creates a time in each of our days for a devotion to Him. The God of the universe came down, became poor, and hung Himself on a cross for us so that we may have eternal life through Christ Jesus. I find that making time for Him will help me learn His word and see the love He truley has for us.

--Jerry----------

Sandwich Day 21 - January 29, 2008

2008-01-31T19:52:00.000-06:00

Special Thanks:

Gaye and Sam - Homemade Oatmeal Cookies made w/extra measure of love.

Mystery Angel - last minute delivery of juice boxes.

Menu: Sacked lunches w/juice box.

Sandwich Crew: Me and Rick – Jerry dealing with sick kiddo.

The Cove:

Jack - Susie - Taz

The rest of the gang was still at camp. Mary sent a note with Susie telling me hello and she would see me Sunday. The group is having issues. A member brought a stranger to camp the night before without letting the group know first and this is not wise...especially when you live on the streets. As with any home, wisdom needs to be applied and protection provided. Jack is getting closer to God everyday. He is seeing how God works through faith. I gave him some tracks to hand out to people as they give to him. He is very agreeable to work for the Lord. I am looking forward to hearing more stories of how God is using him. You can see the Holy Spirit in him as he tells about the revelations that he is having. It is very cool! We handed out all of the sack lunches. Jack, Susie and Taz helped themselves to two which made me smile. Of course that made sure that they had enough to take back to the others. Rabbit is not doing very well these days. He arrived staggering around with a blank look on his face. The alcohol is taking control again. It makes me sick to see the damage it can do. Have you ever known someone who is a completely different person sober as from when under the influence? Satan knows how to hang around and wait for the opportunity of drunkenness to open the door for him to enter. No wonder the Bible tells us to be of sound mind. We spent our entire time here this day. Susie is not feeling well. Jack has asked her to marry him which is kind of cool. They both need to get Id’s which will take some effort and time. It was time to go so we said a pray and promised to meet up for Sunday church.

Rick and I went down the street and had a burger. As we were heading back to work, we saw the Fire Truck pulling up to the Cove. They had been called for Rabbit. We did not go back as it will be the same story until it finally takes his life or he can make the decision to stop and with God’s grace…not drink anymore.

My prayer is for all addictions to be broken in the name of Jesus.

--Vicki

--------------

When we got to the Cove we saw a very young couple with a dog out on the corner with a sign and lots of bags. We didn't see any of the folks we know which is very strange since it was warm and nice. We took them some sandwiches and juice and they said they had just come south to get out of the cold. They looked like they would have been at home on any college campus. Makes you wonder why they have chosen this life style. They were really happy about the dog treats and Vicki gave them a couple of the books of John and as we were finishing talking we see Jack waving at us from under the overpass as they make their way to meet us..

Jack and Taz were happy and upbeat and told us of the visitor last night and the riff it had caused. They said he was a "Rubber Tramp" which meant he has a vehicle. Since the Freedom and Rooster deal they are very cautious about who they "Adopt" and it has to be a voted on by the whole "Family".

Susie showed up and they all took sandwiches. Jack is really being pressed by the Holy Spirit and I know he likes it but it is freaking him out a little. If he is anything like me he is trying to figure out the tears. Jack doesn't strike me as the kind of guy who has cried much in his life. We read some from the book of James and he listened intently and Susie cried. I was excited to hear they wanted to get married. Jack really wants to help Susie!

Rabbit came by so drunk I am not even sure he knew who we were. He was mad and upset and trying to attract attention. He stopped traffic in the parking lot with his stumbling and ranting and then went in the store. I figured there would be trouble..

Kent and Ernie showed up and we haven't seen them in a long time. They were clean and happy and said they were working and in high demand. They have rented a place to stay and they were excited to have a stove and refrigerator. Ernie said he still had the bike we gave them and he thought of us every time he rode it. This group has been so cool. We have given them several items like this and I about half figured they would pawn the stuff but it hasn't happened.. I think the fact that they don't do drugs probably plays in.

Gloria from Church has offered to do a "Concert" for them so we are working out details to make it happen and they were very excited!

Vicki said a prayer and we parted ways. On the way back by the trouble had arrived. The ambulance was there with Rabbit and a fire truck was showing up. We sat at the intersection and it was a strange site. Jack and Taz sitting out on the wall minding their own business with Jack reading his Bible and Taz doing something in his bag. Just the other side of them sirens and fire trucks and they are acting like nothing is happening. I pray they took Rabbit to the hospital and dried him out a little.. Nothing else seems to work.

These folks have been so nice to us. I feel so at home and at piece with them. They have accepted us as part of their "Family" and although we live somewhere else we all still share the love. I pray God's will over them and that they follow it to the best of their abilities..

--Rick

Church at the Cove : January 27, 2008

2008-01-30T12:48:00.001-06:00

Wow!!!!! Sometimes you jump so much you cannot eat and you are just running around being a servant for the Lord …this was one of these days. Andy and the family went to church at Christ the Rock. At 11:20 pm Greg arrived with his family and dropped them off and we took off to get the Cove folks. I did not know how many people were going to be there but God was so good. I saw a lot of people. Tazz and Hooper could not come as they had to move some things from the old camp to the new camp.

Manson noticed that our tire was flat but we decided to go anyway and take care of it later. It was real flat too! The devil was just trying to stop us but it did not work. We all got there and it was dinner time. Suzie, Jack, Mary, Manson, Rabbit, Donny and Teressa all came. Jack and Mary told me they knew this was meant to be because the day before around 5 pm they had just made 5 dollars and they would not be able to come if they did not make more. Jack sent Suzie home because she did not feel well. He was standing there and a man come up to him and said that God had told him to give him 20 dollars. Wow!!! I can see God there working so much!! They all acted different in this new environment. Suzie and Jack were very content to be with each other. Teressa was there with a hurt foot and seemed to enjoy herself. Donny came in with a desire to praise the Lord…straight to the door… in the door and was waiting for the praise time. He sat away from everyone as if to meditate and feel the presence of the Lord. Rabbit came in and really seemed to get into some conversations with people. He was there to to see if he could find one of his family members. Rabbit gave Andy a name of Runner because he runs to help people. Andy was so excited about that. He just loves them so much. My daughter (Tatum) was pulled out of her comfort zone with this whole thing but Rabbit kept making Tatum feel good about helping him. We found Rabbit’s son and sent him a my space invite. I hope it works, Rabbit was so excited. Mary seemed a little nervous about the people but I think when she saw that it was not crowded she was OK and seemed to be an overseer of Manson. Manson sat outside most of the time. He still could hear everything and seemed very good around people. Suzie and Jack got to walk around and see the cabins and Suzie was crying. I think Jack really wants to take care of Suzie and get off the streets. I saw hearts break and tears fall for the love of God. I saw people come out of their shells to help and love through their own love language. God is good and he was shining this Sunday at the Church of Christ. Michael Schroeder was great with everyone and just embraced the idea of helping. He gave a bunch of CD's to Manson and Mary. He was doing good work for the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 2
4 For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts.5 Never once did we try to win you with flattery, as you well know. And God is our witness that we were not pretending to be your friends just to get your money!6 As for human praise, we have never sought it from you or anyone else.
7 As apostles of Christ we certainly had a right to make some demands of you, but instead we were like children* among you. Or we were like a mother feeding and caring for her own children.8 We loved you so much that we shared with you not only God's Good News but our own lives, too.

--Destiny

Sandwich Day 20 - January 22, 2008

2008-01-25T09:43:00.000-06:00

Nasty cold rainy day....

Special Thanks to Gay for those Oatmeal Cookies!

Sandwich Crew: Me, Rick and Jerry

Menu: Sack lunch - sandwich and cookies - Big box of Churches chicken provided by Rick.

The Cove:

Susie - Jack - Mary - Teresa - Vinny - Manson - and Bingo the dog.

Did I mention it was a nasty cold rainy day? Rick went across the street to get a box of hot chicken. Everyone is there all bundled up...except for Vinny wearing a sweater shirt. He says he is from New York and this weather does not bother him. I teased him by calling him a crazy Yankee! He was in a talkative upbeat mood. He told me about this guy who drives by everyday and yells out the window..."GET A JOB"...then gases the car and takes off. Vinny wonders if this guy thinks that Vinny is going to run the car down or something. We had a good time laughing about what this guy must be like...so our message to him today is thanks for the laugh and we hope you get in a better mood!! Rick shows up with the chicken and we had a tailgate party and I gotta tell ya...that's good chicken! As we are munching chicken and dancing around to stay warm...a car pulls up and hands several bags of supplies for our friends. All kinds of food and stuff for them.

Mary says that ever since we have been coming around...all kinds of blessings like this has been happening. How cool is that? I said that's because we all hang with Jesus! She also said that she met a lady at the laundry mat who lived in a trailer that relatives had provided for her. She had lost everything and if not for them putting her into the trailer...she would be on the streets. Mary invited her to Church at the Cove and she said that she would be there! Again I ask...How cool it that??!! Teresa is such a neat lady. I had a hooded wind breaker on and she was fixing the string on the hood for me. I felt like a little kid standing there while she adjusted my jacket. She has allot of love and a sweet heart to keep it in. Susie is not feeling well these days. The night before she experienced numbness on her left side and blacked out for a minute. It scared her but not quite enough to go to emergency room. I told her that the booze and cigarettes really need to go. I know that is not an easy thing to hear. The Bible says we are the temple...we all need to remember how important it is to take care of our body. My prayer for all of us is for God to help remove the desire we have for the things that harm us.

The Edge:

One of the twins, either Harry or Larry, was on the corner. Rick jumped out and took a couple of lunches to him. He said that Pop would be there later.

That was it for the day...not many out in this weather. And it is now even colder since then. God please provide supernatural protection for these people. In Jesus Name.

--NorthStar

Sandwich Day 19 - January 15, 2008

2008-01-17T12:26:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 6:8 (New Living Translation) 8 Then I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to this people? Who will go for us?” I said, “Here I am. Send me.”

Many Thanks to:
Mystery Angel: Sack o’ clothes - Juice Boxes
Susan: Sack o' Jeans
Menu: Sandwiches and juice.

The Crew: Me, Rick and Jerry

The Cove
Jack - Susie - Rabbit - Teresa - Joe - Mary - Manson - Donny - Taz - Hopper - Bingo and MJ (the dogs)

All is waiting as we drive up...as always...we are greeted with smiles and hugs. I handed Mary the book "Under the Overpass" which inspired Sandwich Day. She is already reading a part of it to the others. Everyone took a sandwich except Hopper. I just found out that he doesn't like mustard...I have made a note to always fix him a special sandwich - no mustard or mayo.

Rick blessed the group with a CD player and a solar panel type of thing which will allow them to run electrical stuff from it...not sure about this but Jack sure did appreciate it. Best that I let Rick tell about it! Rick took a moment to tell Mary, Teresa and Susie about this website and they were very proud to be part of this ministry. They may even be writing in it in the future! We will be doing some editing to make sure that privacy will be honored. Mary told me that without God, they would not survive...Well said.

The Exchange
We handed a sandwich out the car window to a new guy named Daniel. He looked like a kid...too young to be on the streets. No one else is out - a cold front is moving in - probably all is staying in.

Graham is on the corner - smiles and thanks us as he receives his sandwich.

We had about 9 sandwiches left so we went further down the highway. We came to an intersection which has several folks standing at different corners. I handed the sack of sandwiches out of the window to a lady. She promised that she would share with the others.

I'm still amazed at the different homeless communities that are out there.

My prayer this week is for God to continue to speak to the Sandwich Crew ... and the Sandwich Crew continues to listen and DO!!

Peace and Blessings to all readers of this website.

--Vicki

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We have made such great friends on this journey. God has introduced us to some caring loving people who would do anything for us. They are true Brothers and Sisters..

The Cove is always waiting on us. It makes us smile as we pull up and they are all waving and excited. The whole normal crew is there and everyone hugs or shakes hands. Don't know for sure but I would bet there aren't a lot of groups that hug them, but we do!

Jack and Susie have built a hard walled "House" in the new camp. They are really trying to fix it up. They tell me it is dry and warm and they have a real mattress. I had an old inverter and a deep cell battery that took a charge so I took that and a solar charger over for them so they will have some power. They have J-Mart (A guy named Jay that works at the Salvation Army) looking for a TV for them. They were very excited. Once again something we take so for granted they are very excited about getting. Interesting that one of the things they are interested in is politics. You might think that because of the conditions they are in they might be more liberal but you would be surprised. They are as diverse as any other community.

I took a CD player and a Todd Agnew (Christian Music) CD over for them. It has a song about a street guy singing in Memphis I wanted them to hear. I also left a testimony of Ben Priest the head of Tribe of Judah Motorcycle Ministry. I think they will enjoy both. They seemed very grateful and interested in hearing it all..

Vicki took a copy of Under the Overpass for them to read. Mary was so excited! She had been looking for the book for a couple of years but someone told her it was under the bridge so she couldn't find it. She was already reading the first pages out loud for them to hear. I will be very interested to hear their take on the book. They made comments about how much "Tramp Camps" can vary and we have seen that first hand. God put us with a great group to learn with!

Donny wanted a copy of Mac Gober's Unchained to pass around the camp.. I told him I would get one for him. Now here is a God story! If you don't believe in miracles try this on. I give Unchained out as part of the ministry and I shop non-stop for used Unchained books and have for about a year. I have never bought one for less than about $3.00+Shipping anywhere. I had just bought one for $2.12 and thought I got a good deal. I came back after sandwich day knowing Donny wanted one, did a search and bought 5 for $.01 and 1 for $.02. That isn't a misprint I got 6 for seven cents! Every thing we have done in this ministry has been like that. The right size clothes just show up. Things we need just appear. God is their provider and we are just the delivery folks!

We took Susie, Theresa and Mary aside and told them about this blog. We had gotten concerned they might be embarrassed or upset we might have violated their privacy. I explained why we did it and how and told them there were others out there that had read their stories and had gotten involved in their own communities and were helping and feeding homeless in other places. (Readers, if you haven't gotten involved in your own community yet please do and make these people proud!) Mary had big tears down her face as I explained. Susie was saying praise God! They were so excited to know they could be helping others!

We got ready to go and Donny came and hugged me and said you don't leave without a prayer! We all got in a big 'ol circle and went to the Lord.. It REALLY doesn't get much better than this.

The cold and the wind was taking it's toll on the other stops. We couldn't find anyone at 2 other stops and had to go way out of our "District" to find more. Vicki handed them out to two women praising God as we slowed in the turnaround on the highway.

I doubt I will be able to wait a week to find out if they liked the CD and the testimony and may have to take a drive to see how things are:-)

--Rick

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A time of reflection...

It has been an adventure on Tuesdays the past couple of months. We have seen God do an abundance of wonderful things through those we have met. We are back to the team of Vicki, Rick and I as Cameo has taken up the Church at the Cove ministry on Sundays, and has class on Tuesday. I have no doubt God will do great things with her and her husband through that ministry.

God has blessed us with many wonderful relationships and we have come along way with those God is calling to his kingdom. From those that are unsure of their salvation, to those who are absolute, each one is precious to God and deserves to hear what God
has done for all of us, through Jesus Christ.

God opens doors and windows every day for us to reach those around us with the life changing reality of Jesus Christ. When it comes down to it, we are all in need. It may be a simple as saying hello to the person walking down the hall or your neighbor as they are picking up their mail. Each of those opportunities used to build a relationship with those around us is a chance to glory God. Let us praise Him for what He has done in our personal lives, what He can do, and has done for your neighbor, the person walking down the hall and the homeless man on the corner flying a sign.

--Wheeler

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Sandwich Day 18 - January 8, 2008

2008-01-10T09:08:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 25:4 (New Living Translation)
4 But you are a tower of refuge to the poor, O Lord, a tower of refuge to the needy in distress.
You are a refuge from the storm and a shelter from the heat...

Special Thanks:

Mystery Angel: Water (24 Bottles)

Gaye – HOME MADE Peanut Butter Cookies!!

Annie – Sacked lunches to include sandwich and cookie and brownie.

JD - Big First Aid Kit for the Cove Folks

Maggie – Bag o’ Jackets

Sandwich Crew: Me, Jerry and Cameo.

The Cove

Eric – Taz – Mary – Hopper – Jack – Manson – Donny – Susie – and Bingo the dog.

Always good to get to The Cove. They are all sitting in the sunshine after the down pour of rain that past thru earlier in the morning. We are greeted with big waves and smiles. It was agreed that Church at the Cove will be 2pm on Sundays on The Cove corner. I asked the group if they still wanted to have church and they all answered yes. The comment was made – “we like ya’ll visiting us”. That made me smile. They have no ideal how much I enjoy visiting them. Everyone got a lunch and Bingo got treats. Rabbit was back at camp…wasn’t feeling well. Eric the new guy showed up with Rabbit the other night…sounds like they had a little too much fun. All I can say is…been there done it…glad I’m out of it!

The Exchange

George – Tom – Todd – Chuck – “New York” – Sherry – Claude – Terry

The group has moved across the street again. It was great to see Claude who just got back from Houston and Tom just back from Florida...both ended up on the same bus coming home from Houston. Tom is so upbeat…he is excited about church at The Cove and promised to be there. Todd sat quietly but made a point to hold out his hand and say hello to me. I think he misses taking care of Princess the dog. She is back with Hugo who is out of the hospital and doing well. There is a new guy they call New York...he is very quite and wasn't too sure about us. Sherry grabbed a sandwich and tried to figure out what was on Jerry’s hat… (I would like to know myself). As we were about to leave, Chuck asked for prayer as he is very sick and put a request in for a pair of jeans size 36x30.

The Edge - Only time for the Pitch N Throw

Mike is the only one we see as we are running late and can only hand lunches from the car window. As I am handing the lunch to Mike he says..."Peanut Butter Cookies - she told me yesterday that they would be coming"...he was referring to Colette who has established a great relationship with the The Edge folks from her car window as she goes to and from work everyday. That was fun.

Vicki

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I am only one, but I am one.
I cannot do everything, but I can do something.
What I should do and can do, by the grace of God, I will do.

The Cove:

I was amazed how Manson talked to me today he was alert and more concerned if I was cold. He talked about his call to his dad and he wanted to do that soon. He was afraid he would ask for money like in the past. I told him that is something only he has control off but God could give him strength to make the right decision. I was so happy to talk to him. Suzie always gives warm hugs and seems so alert. Poor Donny had a bright shiny black eye but was so happy to see us. He gave me a hug and pulled out his guitar. I talked to Mary and she told me God is her negotiator I was very satisfied with that. They give me so much more than I can give them. Eric was very talkative seemed like a nice person he was new.

The Exchange (stop light): I did not see anyone but they said they were across the street and I seen so many working. You never know what you are getting there.

The Gap:

I did not see Joe and Tex. I have not seen them in a while. I pray they are safe. I talked to a man who was standing on the corner and his name was Rick. He was trying to go to California for a job. He was nice and I gave him sandwiches and he was very thankful. Another man was on the other side but did not get to talk to him but he was thankful for the sandwiches.

I pray for God to let me see and gives me the wisdom to understand and the heart to feel.

Cameo

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The weakness of the flesh.

Romans 6:19
I put this in human terms because you are weak in your natural selves. Just as you used to offer the parts of your body in slavery to impurity and to ever-increasing wickedness, so now offer them in slavery to righteousness leading to holiness.

Today was a day I didn't really have the "go-go" juice to hit the road for Sandwich Day. I found myself with no motivation and almost looking for a way out of going. However, praise be to God, we pushed through the weakness of the flesh and put others before ourselves today. We had to fill ourselves with more of Him and less of us. As we traveled through our normal stops, I realized we are all weak. We all fall down and can only truly get back up with His help. It is only with His help can we stand in righteousness.

We fall down, we lay our crowns, at the feet of Jesus.

Wheeler

Sandwich Day 17 - January 1, 2008

2008-01-03T10:13:00.000-06:00

Isaiah 58:10 (New Living Translation) - 10 Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.

Menu: Sacked lunch – sandwich – juice box – cookies.

Thank you Mystery Angel for the juice boxes.

Always big thanks to Gaye for those awesome oatmeal cookies.

Sandwich Crew:

Me – Rick & Colette - Mike B. & son - Cameo & husband Andy.

Jerry could not make it as he was on parental patrol while wife had to go to work.

Pete was missing in action due to holidays.

The Cove

Jack - Susie - Teresa - Taz - Chris - Neil (works at the gas station and his ferrets).

Beautiful sunny day with a sharp cold wind blowing. Everyone was ready for a sandwich. Rabbit, Hopper, Donny and Vinny were still at the new campsite so we didn’t see them….we did send them a sacked lunch. I’m really glad to see Taz opening up to us. I guess he has seen that we are for real and he can trust us. I gave the clothes soap and a couple rolls of quarters to Susie and Teresa. Cameo and Andy agreed to give them a ride to wash clothes and pick them up. Susie was excited to get this chore done. Chris broke down in tears asking if this world will ever be at peace…will there ever be an end to the violence and evil that surrounds us. Another example of the stress the holidays can be on some folks. I answered that Jesus has promised to come back and put an end to it all. He will rule with justice. Until then we need to focus on our relationship with God and with each other. It was time to move on. We took hands and made a circle – we prayed for provision, protection and guidance for the coming year.

The Exchange:

Wilson - Sherry - Becky - Mustafa - Todd - Princess the dog - new folks: Terry - Shawn - Suddenly

I feel that we had a breakthrough with this group. They also were glad for the sacked lunches. Seemed like there was more conversation than usual. Hugo is in the hospital and Todd is taking care of Princess the dog. I gave Princess a bag of bacon treats which I hope will help keep her mind off of Hugo being away. Becky is new – she needed some clothes so we opened up the trunk to see what we could do. Jeans, T-shirts and socks were handed out and received with gratitude. Wilson was in typical form. He was having fun asking me for my sweater…then he wanted my earrings…there is relationships starting here. I took pamphlets of the Book of John and started handing them out. A new guy named Shawn took the pamphlet and said that he has been raised Christian even though he doesn’t look like it or act like it sometimes. I have heard that before. I reminded him that God looks straight to the heart…not the outer man. I’m hoping that doors are opening with this group so that we will get more comfortable talking about the gospel.

This was our last stop – we ran out of food. I’m sure that God sent others to tend to The Edge folks. My prayer for this New Year is for us to stay in the center of God’s perfect will.

Vicki
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The Cove -

What a blessing it’s been to spend the last two Tuesdays with this group! Everyone is in such high spirits, though they miss their friends and family. It was cold and windy and funny to listen to Teresa chastise Vicki about not having a jacket on…..welcome to the family J. Cameo brought pictures from one of the instant cameras they had for Christmas and the pictures were great! The group picture from Sunday Church was amazing and priceless. What a blessing they all are.

The Exchange –

Wilson was spry and having fun picking on Vicki. We ended up with quite a group, all being really friendly and wanting to chat. It’s nice to hear them all excited about the new year and what good things will come.

Thank you,

Colette
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It was a beautiful bright sunny day but the wind was biting. I thought my ears were going to drop off. These folks had been in it all night and the coming night was going to be colder still. There was little grumbling going on about the cold out side of us as they all had big smiles and hellos. I love coming to see them because they always seem so happy. Even in this cold weather they find the positives and focus on them.

Vicki complained about being cold and Chris took a jacket off going to a short sleeve shirt.. They will give you the shirt off their back. She didn't take it for obvious reasons but it sure made a point.

Jack and Susie were talking a lot about the new camp and house he built. They are so happy to have hard walls. They are sleeping much more comfortable with a little heat and the wind blocked better than a tent.

Cameo and Andy came to load clothes so we all got in a circle and prayed in the New Year.. We probably need the prayer more than they do. I get ministered to a lot more than I do ministering. They know Jesus, the Word and how it works. They walk in faith!

The Exchange was different today. We started with just Wilson but before it was over we had a crew and several new folks. They were all friendly and took a lot of clothes as the colder weather bears down on us. There were several comments about how good the bologna was.. They like the plain sandwiches. Hugo is sick so I have been praying for him. I know the worst part is missing his dog. "Suddenly" was a new guy and he was telling stories about working in California. He said when he woke up this morning under a very thin blanket he looked up to God and thanked him for being here today.. Grateful even when freezing.

They had all had a good New Years celebration. Wilson said Mustafa got a ticket for being out on the road flying a sign and the cops said they didn't want him getting run over with all the drunks out. Not sure what they think they get out of giving a ticket but I do understand some of the safety issues at 11:18 PM on New Years night..

I am looking forward to a bigger and better year in 2008! I pray these folks will allow the Lord to have His will and His way in their lives and situations and everyone is happy!

Rick
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It was a great day again. God has blessed us all in 2007 and I am sure has so many waiting for 2008. I came with my husband Andy who is such a gift to me and stands by me with joy to be part of this mission for God.

The Advantages of Companionship
Ecclesiastes 4

7 I observed yet another example of something meaningless under the sun.8 This is the case of a man who is all alone, without a child or a brother, yet who works hard to gain as much wealth as he can. But then he asks himself, "Who am I working for? Why am I giving up so much pleasure now?" It is all so meaningless and depressing.
9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone?12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

We did not expect to see everyone there but where happy when we did. I gave Suzie some picture she had taken at her old camp sight at Christmas they were great. I did not get to talk to too many folks that day I think they were at the camp it was very cold out. I am still waiting to talk to Rabbit about what I have found out about his family and have not seen him yet. Andy and I had a mission to take Suzie to the laundry mat. We went to the one closest to the Cove and it was closed. Suzie was disappointed because she had a mission to wash 4 big bags of clothes. We tried to keep our spirits up and find one that was opened and made plans in case we did not find one. I knew I had seen one by the High School so we found it and it was open. Suzie of coursed thanked God for our victory. Andy and I left Suzie there and assumed it would take about 4 hours and left her our number. Suzie called about 2 hours later and she was done so we went back to get her. I took Suzie back and dropped her and all the laundry off. She is very proud and independent and did not want help from the men carrying the laundry. Suzie has taken a mother roll on the men at the camp. She was concerned and a little mad because she would not get any thanks for her efforts so I bought her a meal at McDonald's and a big shake. Suzie was so happy to have that shake. I am so lucky I had the opportunity to help. Seeing everyone was so nice and as always a blessing to me and Andy.

God Bless all - Cameo
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Sandwich Day 16 - December 25, 2007

2007-12-28T10:31:00.000-06:00

Christmas at The Cove

Family:

Matthew 12:48-50 (New Living Translation)

48 Jesus asked, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” 49 Then he pointed to his disciples and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. 50 Anyone who does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother!”

For me, a good Christmas is getting through it all with as little damage control as possible. I have had only a handful of them which I can truly say were special…this is one of them.

Sandwich Crew: me, Rick, Colette, Mike, Sam, Wayne, Charlie, Colette’s sister Karmen and a special phone call in from Jerry.

Cove folks: Rabbit, Mary, Teresa, Donny, Mike, Susie, Taz, Manson, Hopper and Bingo the dog.

Special guest of honor: Jesus accompanied with God and the Holy Spirit.

Menu: Delicious beef stew and cornbread (Sam) – Homemade cookies (Gaye) – and from the Cove family – Smoked Turkey – dressing – gravy – green bean casserole – mashed potatoes – raw vegetables & dip – fruit cake – (I’m sure I have forgotten something but you get the drift) – it was a feast waiting to happen!

I would never have thought sixteen weeks ago as we handed out sandwiches that I would be spending Christmas day with these special folks!
The weather was beautiful as we walked the neat little path to the campsite home of the Cove family. We walked into the typical Christmas atmosphere…decorated tree – the buzz over the final preparation of food as all comes together on the table. We were greeted with big hugs and love. We ate good food – listened to Rabbit play the guitar – we sang – we read from the Bible – we prayed – we laughed and told stories on each other. Mary wanted to show me her tent…it was set away from the others…typical Mary. We talked about past hurts and not being able to trust easily. For Mary to trust me to see her tent meant a lot. Watching Rabbit play the guitar and sing made me smile. Susie was having so much fun. Even Taz admitted to having a pretty good day. For a moment in our minds, Mary and I became Janis Joplin and sang “Me and Bobby McGee”… we would have made Janis proud! When it became time to leave it was hugs, God Bless You, and thank you. As I was walking the neat little path back to reality…I have to admit…I didn’t want to go!

Peace – Vicki (North Star)

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First I would like to comment on the Church service we had on the 23rd.

We had a great turn out. Folks were out there waiting on us when we got there an hour early! A Sheriff and a Police officer were in the parking lot and I think there was a little concern as bikes started to pull in! Rhino with Soldiers for Jesus met us and rode in and we had most of the crew from Rushing Wind. As the last member of BFC pulled up and he and I were talking I think they finally figured out who we were and they left. They sat there for over and hour watching us.

The service was short but very heart felt. We had the Lords Supper and we all got stoned with the "Jesus" stones we carry that represent where the nail pierced His hand and the drop of blood that will cover all you have done and all you ever will do. They recited the closing prayer "Loud and Proud". It was a great time of fellowship and good fun!

Christmas morning was so special. Taz and Rabbit were at the store and Manson came up right before we headed to camp. Taz told me the camp was all a buzz about us coming and they were cleaning and cooking so he had gone to work to get out of the way. Manson told me who his Dad was in the motorcycle community so maybe I can touch base with him. He really just wanted to say Merry Christmas to his Dad. He made it very clear it was not his Dad's fault where he was and said "Don't knock my Dad cause I am here. It is my fault." Most of these folks are very truthful when they get to know you.

We got to camp to see a beautiful spread of food and lots of smiling faces! I felt kind of bad that we had stew/soup and cornbread after seeing what they cooked in a smoker and on a fire. They had the same things that were being eaten in houses all across America. They all wanted to show us what they had gotten and received for Christmas. Rabbit had new strings for his guitar and started the singing. He is talented and passionate about his singing. We did country, oldies and gospel! Everyone joined in..

For me the meat of the day was when they got the Bible out and read about Mary carrying Jesus and being afraid.. I have never done that on a Christmas before and it was awesome. They really made Christmas about Jesus!

We handed out the Jesus shirts we had gotten at Wal-Mart and they were opened quickly. Many put theirs right on and were very thankful.

Rabbit prayed for us all as family. He was right.

It was an awesome Christmas day!

Rick – (Pastor Spike)

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We forget that mankind lived that way with campfire and tents , etc for most of our history - especially Bible time history. I felt right at home there and would probably gladly join them except for my responsibilities to my son.

Love was all around.

Michael B. - "ZZ" AKA "Moses"

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My Redneck Recollection of Christmas 2007

(Recollection, as understood in respect to the spiritual life, means attention to the presence of God in the soul.)

Christmas 2007 was a rough, yet great one for me. Rough in that I was not with my “blood family” and I was worried for some. I wish to reflect on the great part of this past Christmas as I experienced it.

I met some co-workers and friends at a corner store to hook up with some new friends and go to their place to share a Christmas meal and fellowship on this special day. We were taken to a location in front of their home and unloaded our trucks of the food and gifts that we had brought. Carrying our supplies down the path towards their home, I heard their doorbell (Bingo, the dog) sound to inform our hosts we had arrived. We were greeted with smiles, hugs and warm welcome from all (even Bingo after she sniffed everyone to see that we were ok by her standards). I felt welcome and comfortable as soon as I entered their home.

Very shortly after my arrival, I did what probably 99.99% of new guest to a home do, I looked around to “check out” their home. Here is what I saw:

A table loaded with food that had been prepared by our hosts and placed out for everyone to see and help themselves.

A family, sitting around the fireplace warming their hands and feet on a small pile of burning embers. The area around the fireplace was covered in ashes from previous fires that were most surely used to warm the family on past days and nights. This area must be the place in the home that is most used for family fun and fellowship.

I saw a Christmas tree decorated with many ornaments and tinsel all over. An Angel was placed on top of the tree as if she was sent to set there to watch over this family.

I saw open places to sit in the family area around the fireplace and was offered the use of one several times. It seemed the seats offered were the best ones in the home, with the most padding and near the fire and the food.

I saw separate rooms spread out that the family members must use for sleeping and shelter. Each room seemed to have its own personality that I’m sure matched to each family member.

All of the above is what I experienced with my eyes.

What I experienced with my heart was:

The warm fellowship of everyone there, singing songs, laughing, eating and thanking God for what was provided for us on that special day. It was a great birthday party for Jesus and I feel he was looking down upon everyone and smiling.

I walked into that home with some small material gifts to give our host and I expected to leave with no gift. What I left with was bigger than any package that could be wrapped or decorated with a bow of the finest ribbon. I left that home with a warm heart from acquiring new friends. I left that home with a full stomach after eating the wonderful food prepared. I left that home feeling content from the prayer, song and fellowship that I was allowed to be a part of.

Vicki, I to, felt the sadness of having to leave their home as we walked back up the path away and back to the trucks.

May God’s grace be with our Christmas hosts of 2007.

Wayne – God’s special Redneck

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A Priceless Gift....you called me out of death and into life.

"This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through Him." 1JOHN 4:9

Missing the celebration at the Cove, I dropped in via phone call. I wanted the chance to chat with Rabbit and wish him a peaceful day. It was good I made that phone call and the amount of grace that filled my heart as I returned to the in-laws home for the unwrapping of presents and lunch. As I listened to each conversation that morning I saw how much Jesus was no longer part of "Christmas". This isn't just our family but so many others out there. We all love each other very much, but lose focus on Him and concentrate on ourselves all too often.

My wife, children and I started the morning by focusing on Jesus and that God loves us so much he sent His only Son as a gift of peace between us and Him. However all to often we lose focus on what is Important and let the urgent take over. Several times my wife mentioned we celebrated the birth of Him that morning and several others in the house asked whose birthday it was? One even said they were worried they missed a birthday of a niece or nephew...Once again making room for the Important things has been replaced with the urgent.

Let us take to heart the Important things, His will, and leave the urgent things behind...

May the Peace, Love and Grace of Jesus Christ be with you always,

Wheeler

Sandwich Day 15 - December 18, 2007

2007-12-21T09:50:00.000-06:00

John 6:35 (New International Version) Then Jesus declared, "I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry, and he who believes in me will never be thirsty.”

Mystery Angel: Bottled water

Rick V. – sweaters

Terri Dee – socks

Gaye – Homemade OATMEAL COOKIES!!

Mike F. – Big bag of clothes.

Pete - Jeep – O – Bread…the sequel.

Thanks to all givers – you are beautiful and God is smiling over you!

Menu: Sacked Lunch – sandwich & cookies.

Sandwich Crew: Me, Rick, Pete, Jerry and Cameo – the whole crew is back!

The Cove

Rabbit – Susie – Mike – Wilson – Donny – Hopper (new) – Manson (new) – Jeff (new)

Artist Photographer Patrick.

I spent most of my time running the Salvation Army store out of the back of the truck! Lots of warm clothes handed out. It was a beautiful day at The Cove. Everyone sitting around munching sandwiches and cookies. Patrick, the photographer, captured some really good moments. He is a really nice guy who loves God and the mysterious ways of the Holy Spirit. We discussed how some “churches” won’t allow the Holy Spirit to operate and then how some “churches” will invite the Holy Spirit in and then run Him right out! I pray that God keeps this group in raw untamed barbarian faith…on the edge…and always ready to obey first and then pray.

The Exchange

Tom – Linda – Wilson

Tom is ready to go home to Florida for Christmas. Looks like there can be a fresh start on the horizon. Linda never wants to open up – she is nice enough but keeps her distance. Wilson is being Wilson…there is a sharp mind under all that hair!!

Braker

Danny – Maggie – Precious (dog)

Sheldon – Dave (under the overpass)

Pop – on the corner

Danny and Maggie have good hearts. Maggie is wearing a Santa’s hat that someone had given her. She sits in her wheelchair holding the leash to keep Precious under control. Precious got a bag of treats and Danny and Maggie got a sacked lunch…and we got a big “God Bless You”.

The other barbarians took off to go under the bridge. I held back. The last trip down there was enough for me. I felt kind of ashamed not going but stood on the corner as the traffic whizzed by. They don’t even look at you … good thing I didn’t need any help!

Pop gave me a hug. I asked him if he had given Jesus any thought and he said that he thinks about Jesus every day. I wonder if Pop is pulling my chain. Last visit he tells me he had not given any thought to Jesus. It’s ok…I love him anyway!

City Produce – we stopped by to give “Thank you” cards to the wonderful folks who opened the door for this part of the ministry. We give cards and they send us away loaded up with boxes of bananas, oranges and lemons!! Just like God!!

The Gap

Tex – Joe – Rick (new)

Joe is quiet…not sure what’s going on with him. Cameo is listening to Rick (Tenn) and she is doing the best thing a person can do for another…listen. Tex told me a story that I want to share. He is sitting in a fast food place and a preacher comes in…looks at him…

Preacher: You must be homeless.

Tex: Yes I am – I guess I look worse than I thought.

Preacher tells him a story about how a twig on a growing tree can get twisted and it continues to grow that way.

Preacher: That is what has happened to you – that is what is wrong with you.

Tex: Are you paying for this breakfast?

Preacher: Yes

I asked Tex why he didn’t ask the preacher…What makes you think that there is something wrong with me? Tex said because he was paying for the breakfast.

I want to believe that this preacher is a good man and meant well. With that said…He walks up to Tex and reaffirms that he is on the streets and something is wrong with him. I wonder if he knows what he did to Tex? I want to believe that he did not. The truth is that he hurt Tex enough that Tex is telling about it. I don’t know if this makes sense to anyone else. Sandwich Day started with the assignment of – Feed them – it doesn’t matter why they are hungry. God is dealing with my judgmental nature that must change. As I watched Tex tell about his breakfast with the preacher…my lesson on judging continues. God says not to judge and He means it. It hurts.

Vicki (North Star)
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But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (Isaiah 40:31) All true because I don't think I will ever tire of visiting and helping these friends!

The Cove was very special today. It was a wonderful warm day and most all were very happy. Our new photographer friend Patrick showed up to take some pics!

Donny was there which really surprised us. The hospital wouldn't take him to detox because of past bills. He said he was working hard on doing it himself and was only drinking one large beer a day to keep the shakes at bay. We encouraged him and told him to keep praying.. We talked about his music and his guitar is pawned and he lost his harmonica. Just so happened I had a harp in the truck! Soon as he got he broke out with the music! I pray it eases some of the pain he is going through. Seems no matter what we need the Lord provides!

Susie is always so happy to see us and she is joy to be around. They went through clothes and Cameo gave her the camera she promised. She told them all "See I told you these people do what they say!" and told me the others had told her she wouldn't get the camera. Nice to know we are building a good reputation with our walk.

We met some new folks today, Hopper, Manson and Jeff. Hopper seemed very at home, Manson was depressed and hardly lifted his head. Donny looking out for him asked me if He could use my cell to call home. I made the call but it went to an answering machine. He told me he only wanted to wish his Dad Merry Christmas. He went back and put his head down again. Jeff was legally blind and told me that during his eye operations and all that happened he lost his job and got behind before disability kicked in so he was out on the street. That was so sad.. he did say they about had all of issues worked out and they were going to get him taken care of.

Rabbit was going to lead us in prayer and after some thought decided we should say the Lord's prayer. They all knew every word and recited it like they meant it! It gave me chill bumps..

We loaded Wilson up for a ride to The Exchange and we all headed out.

The Exchange was only Tom and Linda. Tom had the new bad we had taken him and was headed to the bus station. His brother had sent him a ticket to Fort Walton Beach Florida and he is going for a month or so. Tom is a Navy vet and a very nice man. he shook my hand and said thanks for the bag. Linda didn't say much as they took sandwiches water and bread. Wilson was having some good discussions about his signs (He carries about 20 or so with all kinds of sayings on them so we offered some suggestions. My favorite would still be "Jesus loves me. Will you let him love you too?" but no one seems to want to go that deep. Wilson says he stays away form religion and politics. I told him how Rabbit had been blessed by $50 from a lady that liked his Jesus inside hat.. It made him think..

Braker seemed pretty empty when we got there so we had to look.. Danny and Maggie with their Dog. Maggie cried when Vicki had dog treats. They were friendly and as with all of them were wishing us a Merry Christmas. We had to look under the over pass to find Toothless Dave and Sheldon. We gave sandwiches and I saw the remnants of all the BBQ Colette left after their company deal the other day so I asked Sheldon. he said "What a feast that was!" He is so sweet it is easy to see why he has a hard time in the world. He doesn't have a mean bone in his body. I asked about Pops and he said Pops had gotten a new tent and moved to the creek. Said he could hardly tolerate Toothless Dave. Pops is quite, reserved and very respectful and Dave talks a blue streak so I can see the clash.. Pops was happy to see us all. Called everyone by name and asked where Jerry was. (Jerry had to leave at Parmer to run another errand) He also talked of the BBQ feast and said to tell Colette thanks! We all wished Merry Christmas all around and headed out.

We made a special trip to the produce place to wish them a Merry Christmas and give them thank you cards signed by hundreds. They were all happy and it ended up we took 5 cases of bananas and 4 cases of oranges as we left. Those guys are so awesome. Some of the other girls for work are baking them a care package for next week. I can't wait to take it!

The Gap was Tex, Joe and Rick (Tennessee) Tec was happy and wound up. He said his sister asked him what he wanted for Christmas and he told her a "Hotel room, bottle of Whiskey and a couple of hookers" She had asked how much that would be and he told her $500 so she was going to add it on his debit card. He then said "Pastor, I really won't use it for that but I will get a hotel and get cleaned up some." he was happy because he had landed some good work with a moving company and I can see Tex being good help. He wanted to look through clothes because he said he needed to look better for the job and he got several pairs of jeans. Joe seemed unhappy and not his usual self. His mood can swing a lot mostly because he is so hard on himself. Being critical isn't all bad but you can't let it discourage you either.

I am very excited that we are having Church with these folks on Sunday! It will be a special report day!

Rick (Spike)
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Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words! 2 Corinthians 9:15

This was a hard day for me it seems the more I try to help the less I seem to do. I will leave that with God and today I stopped at Cove and just watched. I was overwhelmed with the love given to people that really do not get enough if there is such a thing. I was overwhelmed with the trust in us and in God working through us. I pray for strength to see.

The Cove: It was great sitting and talking not just standing at the truck and passing stuff out to them. I talked to Rabbit a lot today and he named me "destiny" he did not say why he gave me that. Rabbit gave me some names of his family that he has not seen in three years his boys and his sister and brother from Ohio. I told him I would try to find them. I think I found the sister and brother but I need more confirmation from him. He also told me he got bit by a spider on his eye it was sore. I listened to some stories and just got to know them all better. I was worried about Manson he was new and seemed afraid. I laid hands on him and prayed for him. Donny asked me to bring him back some AA batteries so I did that after I went home to get them. He was not there so I left them with Manson for him.

The Exchange: We got to see Tom off before he went on his adventure I wish him well this might be a new beginning for him. Tom and I talked about some Navy experiences "What is he doing there??" I really hope he can get a break and get off the streets he told us he has 30 days and he might be able to get all the paperwork so he can get a job. Linda seemed so preoccupied. Got to have a great conversation with Wilson he is funny and has a grasp on standing on the street corner. He is a smart man and wish he could see it and go in a different direction with his intelligence.

Braker: I got to meet Maggie and her dog Precious and they were both very nice. I have seen Maggie for a long time on that corner before she was in the wheel chair and seemed to just want to cry when we talked to her. I got to walk under the overpass and it was so noisy and just so much movement I do not know how they sleep at all but Dave seemed to be doing just that he took time to wave at us but that was it. Sheldon seemed to be doing OK but I could not hear anything he was saying. It seems like a busy place there on Breaker

We got to go meet the wonderful people at the warehouse and thank them personally what a gift.

The Gap: This was a hard place for me today. I get the feeling from Joe he did not want to talk he seemed very preoccupied with something heavy on his mind I know it is God. Tex was very talkative and seemed happy today. I spent my time talking to Rick (Tenn) he was trying so hard to hold the tears back. He did not do such a good job. He is a good guy who spent a long time just trying to get out of Austin and will go north more in this journey he is in. He is from Tenn and has some family he contacted and was told if he went home for Christmas two sisters would not go home. He was sad but he has burned some bridges. I do not know where he came from but I know I will pray that he gets to others that he can call family and some day his sisters can forgive him so his mom can open the door for him. He did not have a blanket so I brought him a sleeping bag before taking the batteries to Rabbit. I just listened and did not know what to tell him except he is not alone and he is forgiven. Today is a gift he must not quit. I pray for God to give me the right words. This is for God!!

Cameo (Destiny)
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Sandwich Day 14 - December 11, 2007

2007-12-12T15:00:00.000-06:00

Have you ever been caught in the rain? Wait a minute...not just rain...more like a down pour! It starts with a few drops...you notice that they are pretty big but few. Without warning...the sky breaks open and it is pouring rain and you are soaked. Welcome to Sandwich Day. God has opened wide the hearts of His Saints (that's right-I said saints-you don't have to be perfect or dead to be a saint!) and the down pour of giving is soaking Sandwich Crew!!

Gaye sends her famous Oatmeal Cookies. Its official...She is my adopted Mom...therefore; the special bag of cookies that I get should have more than the bag Michael gets!! Seriously, thank you Gaye - these folks love your cookies!!

Sam (Colette’s dad or Gaye’s husband … or both) shows up with ham sandwiches…bringing total sandwiches to over 30!!

Colette is heading up the Dell Team! Angela stepped up this week sending 3 HUGE boxes of clothing...it took a dolly to unload them!!

Jeep-O-Bread provided by Pete!! That’s right…his jeep is literally FULL of all kinds of bread that he has purchased from the day old bakery…the funny part is that most of the bread has not expired!! Sounds like a God thing to me.

Today it’s me, Rick and Pete…we are two barbarians short. Jerry could not get away from work and Cameo had to take care of a sick baby barbarian.

The Cove

Special Barbarians meet us …Colette and Angela!!

Rabbit – Teresa – Vinny – Susie - Mike – Wilson - Jack

“Pastor Mike” – works with the folks like we do – he is there with a lady named Rose.

I spent most of my visit trying to find the right size of jeans for everyone! Teresa found several pairs of jeans and sweaters. Susie was blessed with some sweat pants and several nice warm sweaters which made me smile at how grateful she is. They are always so happy that there are more of Gaye’s cookies in the lunch sack. It’s good to see Rabbit staying pretty sober. He renamed me “North Star” which is several steps above “Brat”! His prayer was simply beautiful. I look forward to “Church at the Cove” – it’s going to be a huge blessing.

The Exchange

Sherry – George – Mustafa – Isaiah

The relationship with this group is not like the others. They receive the sandwiches and clothes always with a “thank you”…maybe we just have not had enough time with them to feel very close.

Braker

Whitey – Lefty – Pop – Mike – Sheldon

Pete and I crossed the street to Whitey - he is a new guy who was grateful for a lunch – he didn’t want to stop and visit as he was seriously trying to work the corner. Lefty was laying on the corner. He was very grateful for lunch. He didn’t look very well. Rick took the suburban to the gas station to park. As Pete and I walked up, I saw Pop!! It’s been several weeks since we have visited. He was looking good…had a new hat. Sheldon shared his faith in Jesus and Mike just likes to talk allot! I asked Pop if he has given Jesus anymore thought and he said no. I continue to pray for his breakthrough.

The Gap

Tex – Joe - Tom

Tex and Joe were glad to see us. They take only what they need and refuse any extra. Nothing greedy about these guys. I really like Tom. He is going home for Christmas and I could tell that this is special for him. He was really looking forward to church starting at the Cove. I really have high expectations of what’s to come.

Blessings to all

Vicki
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We serve the most awesome God.. On one hand I would like to know the plan and on the other what would life be without the wonderful surprises and gifts he gives us daily?

First thing this morning I get the Produce call and Mike and I run and pick up 30 boxes of fresh green beans. All pretty and sealed in bags. Great food!

We load up piles of clothes with lots of blue jeans, sandwiches (30 or so this week), bread and green beans and head to the Cove. Angela, one of the wonderful ladies that donated the clothes and my wife Colette are meeting us there. We get there and there is a SUV (Just like Angela's) parked in our spot but a man is handing out stuff. I figured she brought a friend only now I see her SUV parked in the parking lot next to Colette. This is "Preacher Mike" we have heard so much about! He tells us he really isn't a preacher and isn't affiliated with anyone it is just him. he told us they had come at that time just to meet us! I think he is affiliated with Jesus! Great guy that does wonderful things for these people and holds Sunday bible study for them. He is a true friend. He is taking Donny to the hospital later to detox.. Since we have been through that ordeal I prayed for him. He had a woman named Rose with him. Rose was sad. She lost her Marine son in Iraq. She told me she hadn't been to Church because she was mad at God. I totally understand that. I was mad at God for 24 years. It isn't the way and it won't get you much. She smiled big and said she might just come to our Church and she took our information. I hope she comes. I would like to introduce her to the Leathernecks MC (Motorcycle club of Marines) She led the circle of prayer and the Holy Spirit was sure present. Tears all around as she prayed for Donny and the challenges that lay ahead. I pray we get to spend more time with these 2 folks as their hearts are on a very close journey with ours.

Rabbit agreed to help put on a Church for these folks and needs some pen and paper to prepare. We will get him some! Jack told us next week to bring a camera because they want to take a picture by their Christmas tree. This group really gets Christmas.. Their spirit of giving is second to none and they don't have much but themselves to give so they do it freely. Oh what our selfish world could learn from these folks..

Patrick, who we hadn't seen in a while needed some jeans. We only had 33s and 34s and he needed 38s. Since I wear 38s I told him I could bring some next time but God had different ideas! When we went to Ruben's house to see him since he just had his Gall Bladder removed he said he had some jeans he would never wear again. He went in the closet and pulled out about 10 pairs, all great on hangers. Guess what? They are all 38s! God provided before I got home.

The Exchange was fairly uneventful. This crowd has such a different feel than the Cove. We have only known them for a few weeks so hopefully it can grow to the same type of love. They were grateful for the food, found quite a few clothes and told us Linda was sick so they took stuff for her.

Braker was good. Sheldon and Mike were at the store and Pops was just leaving with a couple of beers. I caught Pops cause we hadn't seen him in a while. He was happy to see us and took food and hung around to talk. He is a really nice man. Vicki asked if he had thought about Jesus any more and he said "Truthfully, I haven't thought about it." Nice they are honest any way. We talked about Preacher Mike a little and they all respect him. Sheldon was very moved as we talked about God and he said he was very blessed. He had tears streaming down his face as he told of the great things God does for him. He has nothing but a back pack full of stuff and he is praising God! He will be rewarded! He said he was happy because Pops and James have accepted him and let him stay in their camp. He and Pops had a squabble the first day we met him. Nice to see them get along. Proof you have to work at any relationship, even if it is sleeping under a bridge. Sheldon said he took good care of nature because he lives with it so I gave him bread for his birds. He seemed so happy. He got some new jeans and very thankful.

The Gap Joe, Tex and Navy Tom from down the The Exchange way. They were all happy but drying all of their stuff out. The weird warming trend during the night had caused the overpass to create it's own rain and soak all of their stuff. Tom said his brother had sent him a bus ticket and he was going home for the holidays on the 18th. We were all happy for him. He said if we had a bag or backpack he could haul it would be good. The coolest part of the day was these wonderful people giving us stuff to pass out next week at other stops. They had some new underwear and stuff someone had given them that they didn't need. They are never stingy and ready to share where needed. They are interested in the Church too and we have set up the 23rd to do a Communion service with them. I am excited, it will be a blast. we left lots of sandwiches, all we had left with these guys. Not bad since they were eating dry Ramen noodles out of a cup.

Angela said this was very sobering and she would did and see what else she had. You can't do this and not be touched.

We met new friends, set up a Church service and had a great day after all!

Rick
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Today was the 2nd time that i went along with Rick and Vicki to help pass out sandwiches and clothes and many other things to the folks that make their livings pan handling under the bridges here around town.

1st stop, pulled up and saw another group of folks standing around talking to the guys. They were giving out clothing. At 1st i thought they were with us, just left ahead, or were meeting us there or something like that. I saw a man passing out new socks.

Apparently, they went today intentionally at the time the sandwich crew usually drives through to meet us. I met Mike and Rose. There was also another car with two women, but i didn't meet them or speak with them.

I asked Rabbit if they could use any loaves of bread. He said sure, that they could use a loaf or two. I went into the back of the suburban and brought out 4 loaves. As i handed them to him, he said to me that he has a street name for me. The other guys last week had mentioned to me that Rabbit had given them all street names and that they were going to ask him about mine. My street name is now Deliverance. I guess i can live with that. Definately sounds better than barbed wire or scar or something like that ey, which is kinda what i was expecting.

All of the guys were happy to see us. They were all full of smiles and laughter. It is such a blessing to be able to help out and put a smile on someone else's face.

I heard Rose talk about how sad she was to of lost her son in Iraq. I think i understood that she volunteers out there to reach out to other military vets, because there are so many of them living on the streets. I'm going to pray for her, that father will ease her suffering and show her that he is ok.

We did a prayer circle with our new friends Mike and Rose before they took off. Rick and him did a bit of information exchange, i guess they may visit each others congregations?

We had about 150 pounds of clothes this time. Actually, i think it was more than that. It took a little bit of time for them to look through the boxes and find what may or may not fit them. I saw some very nice sweaters.

We did another prayer circle with Rabbit once again leading the prayer before we went to the next stop.

2nd stop, We pulled up and the folks sitting down on the curb were both new guys. We got out and asked if they would like a sandwich and some clothes. We asked if they would go and get the others from the camp and ask them if they would like to come over for a sandwich.

Once again we waited while they went through the boxes of clothes. They did appear hungry and made short work of the sandwiches. I'm thinking we should put something together to try and get them some soda's or drinking water.

At the next stop, Vicki and I got out at the Harley Shop and walked across the street to the corner at the intersection where a man was pan handling. When we crossed the street and stepped over the guard rail onto the other side, the man was walking in the other direction away from us with his sign. When he turned around and saw us, which had to be about 50 feet, he started to run towards us. I think he must of recognized Vicki. She had a big bag full of sandwiches. He sure did look happy to see her.

I pointed out a guy that was sleeping in a corner on the other side of a concrete guard. He must be sleeping only about 3 feet from the tires of vehicles that pass by. If you didn't stand on the other side of the guard, where i was, no one would ever know the man was sleeping right there so close to the road. His street name is Lefty because he doesn't have another hand. I was surprised to see the huge smile on his face when he saw Vicki. He glady took a sandwich. I figured he would of been cranky because she woke him up.

We left from there and walked to the other side of the bridge. Well, we stopped for a moment in the center of the bridge and watched the traffic pass by below us.

When we got back to where Rick was, he was speaking to 3 other men. I introduced myself to them. I offered them some bread but they said that they don't eat bread because they don't have any teeth. Sheldon said he likes to go to the park and feed the birds. Rick gave him a loaf and said the birds gotta eat too. Sheldon went on to tell us about his pet rat. I don't know where he sleeps, but where ever this place is, that he sleeps at, this is where his pet rat lives.

He says that he has a bowl that he puts food in every night for the rat. Nights when he doesn't put food in his bowl, he says the rat keeps him up all night. I was a bit curious to know how the rat keeps him up and was about to hear just that next. He went on to tell us about how the rat will walk all over his chest and i guess just walks all over him whenever he doesn't feed the pet.

At the next stop, the guys said they have plenty of clothes already. They did end up taking some sweaters.

I'm a bit amazed by what happened with Tex. He brought over shoe box and asked if we knew anyone else that could use these items. When he opened the box inside were brand new underwear, tootpaste, a small battery radio, some candy and other bare necessities. He said that he has plenty of these items already and wanted for us to find someone else that needed these things and give them to someone else that really needs them. I was absolutely amazed that he wouldn't want to keep them for himself. I told him that i do know someone that can use them.

I'll be giving it to a 15 year old teenager that i know of that lives in a mobile home that has no electricity, no running water and no food. He and his two sisters have been sleeping at a neighbors house.

Tex said that a woman pulled up to him and gave him the box and said that it comes from New Hope. I don't know who they are, but the kid will appreciate it i'm sure.

When i got back to work i still had about 100 to maybe 200 loaves of every kind of bread there is. Even some with a Kosher stamp. I pulled around to shipping and receiving, opened up the back of my SUV and in about 20 minutes it was all gone, except for a few bags of burger buns. I threw those in a box for Rick's chickens.

Peter
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May the Peace, Love and Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always.

Sandwich Day 13: December 4, 2007

2007-12-06T14:35:00.000-06:00

I stand in awe of folks who want to help.

Dear Mystery Angel – the tent you left for Tom went to the folks at The Cove. They are thrilled and send a Big Thanks! Jerry got a tent to Tom last week.

At church Sunday, here comes Jersey with a new container of mustard…said that they won’t use it and he thought of Sandwich Day. Thank you Jersey…it will be used!

My friend Jean is cleaning out closets and I picked up a big haul from her Saturday…Thank you Jean!

When I get to my desk Monday morning…Teri has left two big sacks of warm clothing for our friends. Teri is very involved with volunteer work and knows how much appreciated donations are…Thank you Teri!!

Gaye – sends muffins…carrot cake…OK…I had to sample one!

Rick and Jerry are picking up 44 cases of oranges!! That’s right…44 cases!! Thank you City Produce!!

Jerry shows up with a dozen sacked lunches.

Menu: Sacked Sandwich lunches – doubled amount this week – muffins – oranges and grapes.

Sandwich Team: Me, Rick, Jerry, Cameo, and Pete. What a site we are…all packed in Rick’s surburban..pulling a 16x7 trailer full of 44 + cases of oranges and grapes!!

The Cove
Teresa – Vinny – TAZ – Rabbit – Donny – Chris and Susie

So good to see these folks. I got the remaining key chains from Vinny. Sad news about Freedom and Rabbit - they disappeared and left on a bad note. Wherever they are, I pray that they will make peace with God. And for the folks at the Cove...I pray that they practice forgiveness as we are all commanded to do. As it was time to go, Rabbit lead us in a prayer that brought tears to my eyes. It was a very good visit.

The Exchange
Sherry – Linda – Gary – Wilson (Caveman)

Sherry and Linda were waiting for someone to pick them up and take them to where they can take a shower. Linda made a point of saying that she did not want to miss this ride. Nothing like a good hot shower. Everyone got something to eat and a few clothes. Off we go to our next stop.

The Edge
James – Bobby – Robert – Lefty – Another Robert – Sheldon

Rick parked in the Harley parking lot. James rounded everyone up for us. James seems to be the leader here. There is a new guy named Robert. He has been on the streets for about 6 years. At this time, he does have a place to sleep at night which is why he says he is clean. Sheldon was in his usual spot on the corner. He told me that he was set - didn't need anything today. Our friend Robert who has been in such bad shape walked up to the trailer and I didn't even recognize him. He looked great...standing tall and sober. He had been in the hospital for a few days. I didn't get a chance to visit but the transition was wonderful. Bobby aka Toothless Dave was on a roll...telling all kinds of stories and to be honest...getting on my nerves once again. When it was time to go, we gathered for prayer. I was starting the prayer and Bobby interrupted and took over which was fine. Just like the last time I encounter this man...his is abnoxious and a pain to listen to...until the Holy Spirit steps in. The prayer was real and beautiful. I an getting use to God keeping me off balanced. My lesson in judging folks continues.

The Exchange Red Light – going back – Isaiah is flying his sign and finally Cameo was able to give him the coat that he has been waiting on. It was cool to see the happiness it brought to both, Isaiah and Cameo.

The Gap – The Hangout
Tex – Joe – Randy – Robin (new guy on the corner)

The last sandwich is saved for Joe. His hands are looking so much better. Tex took the last of the carrot cake muffins and I can tell that he is looking forward to every single bite. Randy was laying down and didn't get up. Joe asked me if I would take him to church Sunday. I told him yes and he said that he would be cleaned up the best he could be….stay tuned…more to follow about this.

Vicki

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If you EVER want to doubt God think about this: 12 weeks ago we started with 12 sandwiches. This week we delivered well over 1750 lbs of food, clothes and other good to help folks survive and live a better life. The ONLY request we made was of God. We didn't go searching, we didn't ask anyone else to help. We just obeyed and prayed. He did all the work. You work hard, he will work harder. Chicken is good, GOD IS AWESOME!

The route was a little different today. We had to adapt due to the fact that we are now dragging a large trailer full of food! We had picked up the 44, 40 lb boxes of Oranges and about 30 crates of grapes. We had sandwiches and other essential items to deliver to our friends.

We get to Cove and Rabbit, Jack and Susie are there waiting. Rabbit has his "Jesus Inside" hat on and big smile! We had so much stuff for them we asked if we could just go over to the camp and drop it off for them and they said yes and they would meet us over there. More proof there is a God was when we were doing God Bubble u-turns only this time we are pulling a huge trailer. He made it all work out! At the camp we gave them several boxes of the fruit, a tent, sleeping bag, pots left over from the chili cook-off and the Coleman stove we had acquired for that too. Lots of thanks and hugs all around and we asked if we could take some pictures and they all agreed. Nice to finally have some pics of our friends!

The great news from the cove was Taz. This trip he was friendly, talkative and smiled a lot. I think everyone made an extra effort to shake his hand and speak to him. It was a big thing just to see him hang around this time instead of just running like before.

The bad news was Don. Don gets a disability check and had just cashed it. Freedom and Roster had taken his cash, packed up and split. Don was sad they had done that. He had been very willing to help them and knowing these folks he probably would have given it to them if they had just asked. I pray the money helps them with the baby and maybe they will get somewhere so they can get back on their feet. They are both young and have a long life ahead of them. Don said he would be flying a sign a lot this month because of this.

We all got in a circle and Rabbit led us in a beautiful prayer. You always know the Holy Spirit is there, Susie was crying at the end. There is no question the love of Christ is in this relationship!

We got to The Exchange to see Sherry and Linda sitting out waiting on someone to show up and give Linda a ride to a shower. Her excitement showed us how much it meant. She made Sherry go get help to haul fruit because she didn't want to take a chance of missing her ride. The women gave Vicki the numbers to their prepaid cell phones just in case..

Mostly I talked to Wilson. He looks like a cave man, big and bushy. He is smart and well spoken. He has a whole load of signs with funny stuff on them. Stuff like "Want to go home to my planet, need money for fuel". He said he had a special set just for after 10 so he wouldn't offend the kids. Funny they would think, much less care about something like that if you were in his shoes. Jerry asked if he needed a new pair of pants. His looked pretty clean but had huge holes and a very large seam separation. He told us he had more and these were "For show". He said he wore his others when he worked west in the better areas so people wouldn't just lock their doors. These people have highly tuned observation skills and don't miss much. Wilson and I got to talking about downtown and he told stories of how ruthless it was in the homeless community there. Stealing, violence all kinds of stuff. We had just experienced a little of it at the Cove. He said a lot of the times the cops just let them handle their own situations. From the stories he told, homeless justice can be just as bad as anything else.

There was a guy we hadn't seen before headed for the dumpster looking for food. Jerry asked him if he wanted a sandwich and some fruit. He got a bag of grapes, oranges, sandwich and a carrot cake muffin and it sure looked better than what was in the dumpster! As we drove off we saw him sitting under a tree eating his grapes.

We got to The Edge and James ran all over the place rounding folks up. He is a good guy and seems like a real hard worker. Young and strong, makes you wonder why he is out there. We went to the Harley shop so we could park the trailer since Braker has some very limited spaces for parking. I ran a box of oranges into the Harley shop and asked Derrick to share. When I got back everyone was starting to gather. Toothless Dave was the center of the show talking non-stop about something (He rambles a LOT). He did take a liking to Vicki and kept asking if she was married! While we were standing there Robert walked up and people didn't even recognize him. He had a cup of coffee and the only way I really knew it was him was the jacket we had given him. When I commented how good he looked he showed me his arm band from the hospital. He had been in two days and was mostly sobered up. The difference was totally amazing, a lot like Rabbit when he was totally sober.

We all gathered up for a prayer and Vicki started it off. Toothless Dave kicked in with a booming voice and did a wonderful job finishing it off in Jesus' name. He continues to surprise us with these outbursts for Jesus. You would have bet a million dollars 10 minutes before he didn't know Jesus like he does. These folks have much more faith than a mustard seed.

We finally got to give Isaiah the new coat. He always seems so happy. A big God Bless you and when we stopped at the light I left him a bag of fruit by his stuff since he was way down the road. He is always in heavy traffic so it is very hard to get to talk much. Nice man.

Joe, Tex and Randy were at The Gap. We gave the last sandwich to Joe and left oranges and grapes. Tex always impresses me. He is going to call the produce place and see about work. He has been in the trucking business most of his life so he could fit in. Joe wants to come to Church with us. That is a real challenge since it is far and we ride. Vicki had a good idea but I will let her tell that part!

We go back to work and gave the rest of the fruit to folks there. We have so many needy people at work. Many are close to homeless themselves. It was very much appreciated.

It was an awesome day. Again, no matter how stressed you are or what is going, on serving others can really bring you up!

--Rick

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Every Tuesday I wake up and just try to prepare for what I will do and I realize after we go I can never prepare for this. Everyday I go on my mission and get a blessing.

The Cove: Today I got to meet the famous Rabbit and he is real quiet but I sensed a little excitement when we arrived. I met Taz and he just talked my ear off. I love Susie's hugs she is so thankful for everything and her eyes light up when we come. I actually was excited because today Teresa talked to me so much and educated me a bit on the key chains her and Vinny make. I set up a time for her to meet me at the Cove with my daughter (Savannah) who wanted to give some beads. Savannah wanted to help them sell some more key chains by giving them some of her beads. Teresa talked to me about getting a job and told me the story about Vinny's reason for not working. I met Donny and heard about the terrible thing that happened to him and his money. I pray if they ever get to see Rooster and Freedom they show grace like God shows to them.

The Exchange: I got to see Sherry and Linda today they seem to be up to something. Sherry was waiting for a ride to get a shower. We got to meet Gary who was new and most likely will relocate somewhere in the south side of Austin. He is very busy and seemed not really worried about his situation. He stated he just got out of jail. Seen Wilson I always like my conversation with him he seems like a kind person.

The Edge: I met a whole lot of people there and we just parked at the Harley place. Most of the time I was talking to Robert he really likes to make us laugh. He was very flirty with Vicky. I thought all these guys were nice. Robert did not look like he belonged on the street.

On the way back through I got to finally give Isaiah the coat me and my husband promised him. Two coats later we finally see him to give him a coat. He is such a blessing and seems to like working and meeting people.

The Gap: Wow it amazed me how Joe's hands healed but I have to remind myself God is just amazing and every person is just his clay he is working with. Joe loves God so much. He requested to go to church with Vicky and with no reservations Vicky said OK. Amazing may God bless her for that.

God watches these people who have choose the streets to live. It is amazing how they just watch over each other and open their hands to others that are having a bad time in life. They are a family.

I took my daughter to the Cove and I was greeted with a hug from Teresa. Savannah was a little apprehensive but that did not last long when she talked to Vinny. They talked about making crafts. I did not get to stay long because Teresa told me a friend was there and they were waiting for the ambulance he was having heart pains. I did not recognize him. Teresa was sad. I approached him twice and talked to him a little but he was not in the mood to talk. I left when the EMS came. Savannah was thinking Vinny did not know much when she went and was going to teach him something and he taught her.

God blessed me today like always

--Cameo

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Today was the 1st time i joined another christian group and went out to feed the homeless people that i usually see standing at the street corners begging for money. I've never actually gone out onto the streets before to feed anyone. I have gone through poor neighborhoods and given out food, but it was nothing like what i experienced today.

On my way to the bridge, as i ride along in a suburban pulling an 18' X 7' trailer full of oranges and grapes, i was kinda given the scoop on the history of what they are doing and how it started.

I noticed that we took with us many essentials needed, like paper towels, sweaters, blankets and something you would never think that would be as crucially needed by a person that has no home, a tarp.

We drove up to a corner and found a place to park. Three folks came out to meet the group and then they took us to where their camp site was hidden in the woods nearby.

Several folks came out of the woods and the others with me began to talk to them and hand out sandwiches. One lady was given a tent to sleep in which was much appreciated. The temperatures here this morning were about freezing.

I guess there were about 12 to 14 people living in this campsite. I was told that one guy came out for the 1st time that always ran from them and would go hide himself. He said that a man and a woman that was staying at their site stole 500.00 hundred dollars from him while everyone was asleep and when he woke up they were gone.

We gave them a box of sandwiches, a couple cases of oranges and a couple flats of grapes, i think its called a flat?

The folks were asked if they would like to have their photo's taken to be displayed on a christian website and i guess they were fine with it. I took several photo's for the group.

A guy named rabbit just started talking to me alot. He said he hasn't seen his kids in years and doesn't know where they are at. He said to me that all he knows is what hospital they were born in and the names that were given to them and that's all.

I found it absolutely amazing that these guys are so hungry to hear about christ. They absolutely loved to hear about J-sus. It was like if they couldn't get enough. Before we left to the next bridge, everybody joined hands and my new buddy Rabbit led the prayer!

The next stop was interesting as well. I guess just because a person is homeless doesn't mean that they can't have a cell phone. Two of the guys, rather gals, have cell phones! We gave them sweaters and blankets and food as well. It was glady received.

One lady with a cell phone was very happy. She said she was waiting for someone to pick her up and take her someplace to have a shower. She said, "you have no idea how much it means to us to have a shower".

A man said that he had just seen his parents the day before and that they had given him some money. He said he went and bought some of the bare essentials needed. I asked him, what are the bare essentials that you guys need out here? He said toothbrushes, toothpaste and deodorant, stuff like that. He was trying to get himself setup to get a job soon.

At the next stop i met a man that the others had never seen out around before. For a homeless guy i never seen such a spirit in a man before. He appeared to be so happy and had a story to tell us about everything that we did! lol He was a riot. I remember how his eyes lit up when i opened a box full of muffins in front of him and handed him some.

The last stop kinda struck a cord with me. They want to go to church. They asked if someone could stop by and pick them up on Sunday and take them to school.

I'll just end by saying i am absolutely amazed for their desire to seek Christ.

--Peter

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Every week is different and every week I make new friends in Christ. This week was especially special, because we all have a picture together! A picture can say a thousand words and this is no exception. As much as I enjoyed the picture and the fellowship, I was saddened by the news of the stolen money. It happens there, it happens here..there is no exception to the the war we fight each and every day inside ourselves.

I also was a bit bummed out at the Exchange, not too many folks hanging out, but as we heard most were off flying their signs or picking up some day work, which is always good to hear.

The Edge was an adventure just because we were blessed with Dave, aka "Bobby". I won’t go into why his nickname is Bobby because I am not sure I understand why...Bobby was a happy guy, full of stories and laughter. Most importantly he took over our prayer and blessed each one of us with all of his heart.

A new guy, Robert at The Edge, is a great person to meet. He currently has a place to crash and can get a shower which is why he said he was pretty clean at the time. He also wanted us to make sure that most of the homeless aren't diseased, angry, and unapproachable. I shared with him that he was none of those in my eyes and to God he was his child. Robert was a little hesitant when we ask if there was anything we could pray for him on, but his response was peace. "Peace here, peace there, peace everywhere!" He stated that if all could get along there wouldn't be so much hatred in the world. I agree with Robert. As we packed up to head out, I reached out to Robert to shake his hand and he asked me my name again...I put both of my hands on him and asked that the Lord's peace be with him. We all need that peace in our life.

Peace is something we all need. In our hearts, in our minds, peace with each other and most of all peace with God.

God loves us so much he sent his only Son for to die on the cross for you, your neighbor, your mailman, your boss, everyone. No exceptions.

Peace be with you

--Jerry

November 29,2007 : The Produce Run

2007-12-01T18:39:00.000-06:00

Matthew 14:15-21

15As evening approached, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a remote place, and it's already getting late. Send the crowds away, so they can go to the villages and buy themselves some food."

16Jesus replied, "They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat."

17"We have here only five loaves of bread and two fish," they answered.

18"Bring them here to me," he said. 19And he directed the people to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. 20They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over. 21The number of those who ate was about five thousand men, besides women and children.

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But GOD...

On Tuesday as we ran out of sandwiches half way through the run we began to discuss how we were going to provide more. A couple of the barbarians stood up and said they would make extra sandwiches and we could more than double the current meals. Little did we know God had a plan. He loves to show up and show out and on Thursday he did just that.

In some motorcycle club related e-mails one of our biker friends that works at the largest produce distributor in the city shot me a note and at the bottom asked if we could use some free produce for some needy from our Church. He stated "Just about a ton" and I figured it was just an expression when in truth it was an understatement! I got a hold of the other barbarians, we commandeered 2 trucks and a driver in the name of God and headed off to the produce place.

On the way there we stopped to get gas at Braker and saw James and Sheldon. We told them we would be right back and to round up who they could because we were bringing food back. James headed off immediately to round up folks!

What we saw when we got there about made our eyes bug out! Boxes and boxes of food that was going to be discarded because of time stamps that were about to expire. They can't ship anything that is within 4 days of expiring and they trash it! I think one of the saddest things of the day was hearing that they called other folks and it was always "To much trouble" or "Not what they wanted" so they had quit coming to get this beautiful food.

They took us where the discard pile was and we saw boxes and boxes of salad in bags, broccoli, carrots, all kinds of stuff! They had more fruit on a separate cart and we loaded 2 boxes of oranges, a box of apples, 2 boxes of lemons, 2 boxes of bananas, 6 flats of grapes, some onions, numerous boxes of salad until both trucks were loaded to capacity and headed off to give it all away!

We get back to The Edge and there are 7 folks waiting for us. We left grapes, bananas, oranges, salad, some lemons, and just told them to take what they needed. There was excitement and foraging and lots of smiles and thanks. It felt so good to be able to give until they didn't want any more. A brand new feeling! We told them this could be a regular thing and Danny said he would pass the word. I hollered out the truck window "And the word is Jesus!" He laughed, said Amen and we headed off to The Exchange.

The Exchange was just as exciting. We let them dig and take until they didn't want any more. We did learn some of the stuff we didn't get like broccoli and Brussels sprouts they would love to have! This trip was a major learning experience in many ways. No one seemed to want the apples. Sheldon had told me at The Edge he didn't have any teeth but now at The Exchange they all said our teeth are to bad. I asked if they had knives and was very promptly shown and told that all homeless have knives but the apples are still hard on the gums.. We will remember the next time and I will remind them they could be cooking them! There were hugs all around at leaving time and Mike, one of commandeered truck drivers looked a little nervous about the hugs but by the end of this trip he was seeing hearts and understanding more why we do what we do..

At the stop light up at the top of the hill at The Exchange we see Graham and 2 guys from the homeless shelter ARC. We tell them anything they want in the 2 trucks is fair game and they were quick to get stuff before the light changed. The picture of the day was Graham standing by the side of the road, a box of salad under his arm and a HUGE smile on his face saying God Bless you. We waved and headed for the Cove!

We get to the cove and it was empty. We knew kind of where their camp was but not exactly so the barbarian adventure begins! Numerous u-turns in the God bubble and much looking we finally spot something in a stand of cedars. I got out and went off hollering their names hoping not to frighten them and they would know I knew them. Bingo the dog was quick to bark and I think he would have attacked if I had kept on. Mary heard me and yelled "Who is it?" I told her and she immediately came and got me, showed us where the main trail was and invited us to come see their Christmas tree. We all got boxes of food and headed to the camp. It was nice as a camp can go. It was organized and cleaner than the places they hang out. They had a beautiful Christmas tree all decorated up! It had red bows tied on it and all the trimmings. They said Rabbit had really been blessed and had bought the decorations. (That is a whole new story that will be in next weeks bog after I verify more information) These people are so selfless and sharing. I asked if I could take a picture and Mary said no. She said it was a tramp thing, no pictures in camp. I told her I understood and I felt privileged to be there. She said she would take a picture and make sure I got one. Maybe I need to take her a disposable camera!

The last stop was Joe and Tex and we left lots of salad since that was all we had left. They were glad to get it and while we were there we checked on Joe's hands. They looked much better and he said they felt better. It is good to see the medicine is working. (Note to barbarians, remind me to look for wipes or waterless hand cleaner for these folks. They want to be clean it is just hard!)

We took the boxes of salad back to work and shared with the other workers. Lots of smiles there too.. Sad there are so many Americans so close to being homeless. Lots of very needy people and it reminds me how truly blessed I am.

It was an awesome God day.. So many wonderful things happened that it starts to blur. Mike the "Shanghaied" barbarian will never be the same. I rode home on my bike in total awe of the God we serve and he clearly is large and in charge. As I was typing this the produce dude called and we ran another load today.. It is going to be a very wonderful thing!

--Rick
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My take....

God is making it very clear that He is in control and He has all kinds of things that He wants to do. Our job is just to suit up and show up and He will do the rest!! This is the most exciting and fun adventure EVER!!

--Vicki

Sandwich Day 12 : November 27, 2007

2007-11-29T05:35:00.000-06:00

Colette’s mom (Gaye) made more cookies – oatmeal and ginger snaps – THE BEST COOKIES EVER!! They are works of art.
I walk into my cube Tuesday morning and Mystery Angel has struck again!! Three sacks full of Sweat Shirts and tube socks!! Whoever you are…thank you!! You are such fun!!

Menu: Sacked lunches to include sandwich, chips and HOME MADE COOKIES
Additional stuff: knitted scarves by Colette’s aunt – big bag of socks – jacket – We are a Salvation Army on wheels!!

Today we are blessed with a new barbarian sister, Cameo!! So it’s Rick, Jerry Cameo and me.

The Gap – Rick decides that we are “four wheeling” so off across the field we go. Being a barbarian is the best!!

Randy – Joe – Tex – Ron: Everyone took a lunch and went through the stuff taking what they needed. Randy is new to the streets. When I asked him if he had a Bible, he said yes…”I may be a tramp but I am a Christian”. I told him to stop right there. God made and loves us all – we all have a special place and assignment. Tex spent most of his time talking with Jerry and Rick. Ron is new. I didn’t hear him say much. I did watch him go after the lunch as he was saying how hungry he was.

It was great to see Joe walking up. I have not seen him since I drove by on my bike several Sunday mornings ago. He said that he did recognize me that day. I asked him how he was doing and he said not well at all. He held out his hands and it made me gasp. He says that he is allergic to sun. The skin on his hands is severely cracked open. I’m not sure how infected these wounds are. We told him to sit tight and we would stop on our way back with some medical supplies. Note to self: these folks need basic first aid kits. We prayed healing of Joe’s hands – for Tex to overcome drinking and protection and provision for each. It was time to set off for our next stop.

The Cove
Vinny – Teresa – Susie – Freedom & Rooster – all waiting for us – everyone took a lunch and went through the stuff getting more shirts and socks. Vinny had 5 more key chains ready for me. Next week will complete my order. Once again, all I can say is that he just doesn’t fit … but he is confident and at peace with his life….more than what many can say. Freedom and Rooster spoke with me about getting Freedom medical care. Freedom said that she would be calling the social worker today for an update on getting her birth certificate for Medicaid. We gathered around for a prayer and Teresa asked for special prayer for her son addicted to drugs. Susie said that she needed prayer for a job. So we lifted them all up to God and made our request…in Jesus name.

The Exchange
Sherry – Linda – Hugo – Sparky – Tom – Todd – Winston – Mustafa – Wilson – Graham – Princess the dog.

What a gathering! This is a new meeting place. I was introduced to everyone but didn’t get the opportunity to speak with everyone. It really touched my heart when Sherry walked up. She was crying and when asked what was wrong, she simply answered that she didn’t know where the tears were coming from. She took some socks and a sweat shirt. She was happy to receive the Bible that I handed her. When she opened it, she said that it was hard for her to read so Rick gave her a pair of reading glasses that he had. She was tickled to be able to see the print. Cameo and I prayed with her that she be encouraged. At one point I just stopped and looked around. Over there is Jerry with Todd, Tom, and Winston - it's easy to see that good conversation is going on. Then I look over at Rick talking with Hugo and Sparky. There is Cameo sharing with Linda and Sherry. All I can say is "Thank you God." These folks are their own little family. Hugo said that if there was anything that they could do for us…to be sure and let them know.

We didn't even make it to The Edge. I trust God that there is a reason and our friends were provided for.

I'll let the other barbarians finish this up...once again...I will never be the same.

---Vicki
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My walk was great today!! Praise to God for everything!!

The Gap: I talked to Joe and Tex. My husband and I meant them on Thanksgiving. Joe hugged my neck and thanks us for the coat; Joe is so in Love with God. His hands were so cut and bleeding it made me so sad. I hang with hero's though and my partners decided to go to Walmart and get some medical things to fix his hands. So we left with a promise to come back with medical things for Joe's hands. I got to meat two new guys Randy and Ron. I did not get to talk to them but will next time.

The Cove: I got to meet all new people that I have heard so many stories about so I was a little excited. I talked to Suzie she was so sweet. She looked like she wanted to cry and just kept hugging my neck. She told me about her sons. She has two in their 20's. She had a sadness about her and I have a special prayer for her boys to come and find her and that she realizes love has not prices tag. I got to meet Freedom and she thanked me for the boots. Wow what stories them boot have so I told her to give than more stories. She seemed like a special person and Rooster was by her side. I meant Teressa she was quiet yet smiled a lot and was very grateful for everything. I did not get a chance to talk to Vinny but everyone I was with just had such good things to say about him.

The Exchange: I got to meet all kinds of people there and we came at a time of need I think. Hugo was there and I got to see Princes again she is such a sweet dog. Hugo was really wanting to get off the streets. He seemed to be drinking and kind of defensive with me he just had a story and was very passionate about having Princes with him. I will pray that he can find a place so he can have his Princes with him soon. He is a fellow vet and found out he does have means. Linda came up and she was just crying. Me and Vicky said a prayer with her and she just cried. We did not ask questions we just gave it to God. I think everyone there was real upset because of a new guy who is having a lot of medical problems and spent a couple days in the hospital. He is not doing well and I ended up giving the coat I had brought for Isaiah to him. Isaiah will understand and I will get another coat for Isaiah by next Tuesday. I got to meet Sheri she was nice and gave a couple requests for Tuesday. I did not get to talk to Mustafa he was working on the street. I will get to talk to him and Isaiah next week. I meant a lot of new people and look forward to getting to know them better next time.

My prayers will be with them.

--Cameo
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We had a big load again and it is never enough. It is a beautiful sunny day and the bad wet weather is over for a while.

We got to The Gap and we had to "Off road it" with lots of whooping and hollering from the Barbarian crew to get where the guys are hanging out. I met Tex and Randy for the first time and Joe (Red) was there. We haven't seen him in a while.

Tex was pleasant, confident and articulate. They recognize the Harley stuff right off and Tex tells of making 14 consecutive trips to Sturgis to polish the show trucks and make cash (And spending $700 in a bar the next night) they are Interesting stories. These folks seem to travel a lot. This lack of roots is probably one of the reasons they end up on the street. Tex is the "Unofficial" leader of this group. Seems each of the groups has one. Vinny is the one for the Cove. You can see the confidence in their faces and they seem not to totally fit with how the rest of the group is. Vinny told us this time every day was a good day and he was a survivor. I don't doubt it at all.

Randy was very nice and you can tell he is down on himself for being in this position. He blamed it on being old and not being able to do physical work any more. Many of these folks are right where they are at because of resistance to change. You can hear in many of their conversations. Lots of looking in the rear view mirror and having a hard time going forward. Jesus is all about change. He wants you to die to yourself. Can't get much more change than that!

Joe's hands looked terrible. He needs sunscreen, lotion, some antibiotics and gloves. We tell him we will be back with stuff later and head for the Cove. we prayed for him and he prayed for us and them. Joe likes to pray!

The Cove is always refreshing because they are all smiling! They said they love Tuesdays! We gave out more warm stuff and all the rest of the sandwiches. The food went fast and we realize we need about twice as many sandwiches. We haven't even gotten to Howard lane yet! Susie really enjoys the visits and she tells us multiple times how awesome it is we come to see them and she loves Tuesdays. I think it is awesome they invite us in we love Tuesdays too! The prayer at the cove was hand holding and powerful. Vicki does a great job with the prayers! Susie said she could feel it. No question the Spirit was there in our little huddle of friends.

I gave Freedom the "Jesus Inside" hat and she said she would make sure Rabbit got it. I think he is avoiding us. Been 3 weeks now since we have seen him. They say he is ok and is drinking a lot less. Maybe staying away from the store and the easy access is helping. I just like Rabbit and miss him.

Howard Lane was empty as it has been for several weeks. The place where it all started with Randy is no longer the hang out.

We got to The Exchange and found the camp at the bottom close to Lamar. A little more off roading and we are parked next to them. The looks on their faces when we first drive up is concern and question. Probably thinking "Who is here to jack with us now?" till they see us with sandwiches and stuff. We didn't have any food left but we opened the "Warm Store" and let them dig around. They seemed to come out of the wood work for quite a while. Hugo's eyes got big as saucers when he saw the Harley shirts. He got three of them and put them all on at once! Mike donated them and they went to a great cause to someone who really appreciated them!

I didn't talk to a lot of them other than Hugo and Sparky. Sparky was in bad shape. Said he was a bad alcoholic. Hugo said Sparky had just been in the hospital and they kicked him out even after he told them he needed to detox. They even knew the name of the drug they give you to take you off slowly but I can't remember it. Hugo said he gets a disability check from the military, is 61 and wants to find a place where he and Princess, his dog, can stay. It is going to be tough with the dog. Tough choices that most of us don't understand. His love for his dog of 8 years keeps him living in a tent on the street. Hugo did tell me there was some dope use in this group so we need to be aware. It is till encouraging though. We just met ten new folks, gave a lot of stuff away and no one asked us for money. Sparky wanted a Coleman stove.. Said Cops give them a hard time about the fires.

Sherry wanted a Bible but she opened it and said she couldn't see. I went to the pocket and gave her my biker fold-up readers in the little case. She was so excited. I wonder how long she had been unable to see that close? She very lovingly wiped the case off and was very careful putting them in her pocket. These glasses cost me two bucks a pair and you would have thought they were pure gold.. Sherry had been having a bad day and when it was over she was smiling. If nothing else we sure turned her day around.

We had a great prayer with this group too. Big circle and they all grabbed hands. Heads bowed and Cameo led this one. She is a good Barbarian and fits right in..

We blitzed Wal-Mart to get the supplies for Joe's hands. Vicki and Cameo hit the medicines while Jerry and I headed for the gloves. We got triple antibiotic cream, Corn Huskers lotion, bandages and 5 pairs of gloves so he can keep them covered.

We went back to give the stuff to Joe and he was asleep on some cardboard. He seemed out of it as we tried to help him doctor his hands. Not sure if it was the alcohol or he was just groggy. We left him with all of his medicine. Tex said he would help.

We have learned a lot in these few weeks. These folks know the Bible. When they start quoting, I start listening. You just never know who the Lord may speak to you through.. I wouldn't trade these few weeks of Tuesdays for 5 years of Sundays in most Churches.. It has been beautiful and such a blessing. I feel heartfelt sorrow now for the folks that have to turn their eyes at the intersections (Like I used to). If they only knew what they were missing.

--Rick
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A tent for Tom, a prayer for Todd, and a missed friend...

Tom. One word. Happy.
I spent most of my time at The Exchange chatting with Tom about "stuff". If you ever feel like you are piling up too much on your shoulders or the "world is out to get you" and cannot for some reason ask God to take over, go visit Tom. Not that Tom is going to solve your "problems" but the Lord may just work through Tom to let you know that He is in control of the situation, relax, chill out. You can see that assurance from God, through Tom.

I asked my new friend Tom if he needed anything, and he said not really, besides the socks and shirt he grabbed, but then made mention that his tent is leaking pretty bad and duct tape just wasn't cutting it anymore. I told him I would dig around and try to come up with something if at all possible. He of course he was very grateful and insited it wasnt neccessary. I cannot imagine my roof leaking in my home and just having to deal with it. I really cannot imagine trying to fix it with duct tape or even the right tools over and over again. How truley thankful am I that God has blessed me with a roof, food, clothing, a hot shower...the simple stuff I sometimes take for granted...

Todd. One word. Me.
I spoke to Todd for all of 30 seconds. He was a very quiet guy about my age. I kneeled down next to him and asked him his name and if he needed anything and he said "I'm cool". Me too, I thought. I can't say much more about Todd, other than that. Todd reminded me...of me. Not sure where this is going so I will leave it at that for now and pray for Todd.

Jimmy (aka Rabbit). One word. Missed.
I was a bit bummed out when we pulled into the Cove and Jimmy wasnt there. That meant Jimmy and I couldn't get our "Street Corner Bible Study" (SCBS) started. This one if for you Jimmy,

Last Week :
Proverbs 22:4
Humility and the fear of the LORD
bring wealth and honor and life.

This Week :
Proverbs 24:16-
for though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again-

--Jerry

Sandwich Day 11 : Novmeber 20, 2007

2007-11-21T18:37:00.000-06:00

The rich and the poor have this in common: The Lord made them both. - Proverbs 22:2

Dear Mystery Angel - Thank you again! I know you are having so much fun leaving your gifts for these people. When I walk into my cube on this Sandwich Day - there is a big sack of new blankets. This is the second hit this angel has made. Whoever you are - you are giving just like the Bible says to...in secret. Your reward will be great...but I know that is the last thing on you mind!!

Menu: Sandwich, Chips and not just any ordinary cookie...Colette's mom made the best oatmeal cookies ever...What wonderful blessings these folks have waiting!!

Today it's me and Rick. We are one barbarian short (Jerry)...he had to take care of a sick baby barbarian.

The Cove

This is starting to be the happening place on Tuesdays. It's so cool to see folks waiting for us. Today it's Susie, Freedom, Vinny and Jack. Rabbit and some others are back at the campsite getting things ready for the cold spell that is coming. We are welcomed with smiles, hugs, and hand shakes. Freedom says the social worker is really helping and is pretty. Freedom's birth certificate has been ordered and should be showing up soon - which will then allow her to be signed up for Medicaid. Also, Freedom has been given a 30 day bus pass to help her get to appointments. Last week I placed my order for 20 key chains from Vinny. He had 10 of them ready for me and promised the other 10 for next week. So if you know me at all...your Christmas present will be a key chain by Vinny. It could possibly be the best present ever. Vinny is so different from the others. He really doesn't fit. He may be the one that God has placed among them to help take care and lead. He told me that he is on day 4 of not drinking. He said that he and Rabbit are supporting each other to staying sober. They all took the sack lunch and a few more items out of the box of clothes - shoes and blankets.

Howard - Vacant
The Cove folks say that the Howard folks don't show until around 3pm...so that's why we don't see them anymore.

The Exchange - Red Light - Thomas holding a Vet sign. We hand him a lunch and of course we get told "God Bless You" I smile as I think of him biting into one of those cookies!!

The Edge

On corner at Red Light - Mike - heading to New Mexico - he took a lunch and a poncho for the rain. He is anxious about the cold weather coming in. I would be too. God, please keep them warm.

On the other side of the street is Robert and a new friend Steve. Seems like Steve takes care of Robert. He tried to give us some background on what's going on here. It appears that Robert has been kicked out of where he was staying because of his drinking. I told Steve that it wasn't my business why ... Rick went to get some long sleeve shirts for Robert and a jacket to keep him warm. Steve said that he was set and didn't need anything. He did look at me intently and asked me why we were doing this. It was the best part of my day to simply say..."It's for the Lord." That really touched him. They took a sack lunch and Rick gave Robert the shirts and jacket. We said a prayer as it was time to go. Out of everyone - Robert is in the worst shape. His eyes are so sad - losing hope by the minute. It's so sweet how he takes his hat off when we pray.

The Exchange - Red Light - that last sack lunch is for Isaiah (he says just like the Bible). He takes the lunch - and we hear the "God Bless You" as he is pointing upward and we pull away.

A personal note: God Bless you on this Thanksgiving...I like that word...thanks + giving...put it together and that about wraps it up!! Please keep all these folks in your prayers. If not for the grace of God, there go I.

--Vicki

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Every time I go on one of the runs I think of all the people who would get such a blessing from being out here serving. If you try it you will like it!

Sandwich day grows and more donations come in. This week we could have handed out about twice as many lunches. New folks and transients moving through added to the numbers. We had a communication issue with our friends that were going to go with us and they were exactly an hour behind us and handed out food at The Edge and met some great folks and had a wonderful time! God sent them down there because that was where we were running out of food.

The Cove is getting awesome and they make sure they are there when we show up. Jack had walked off and Susie ran and got him so he could catch a lunch. They took some blankets, sweat shirts and checked out the shoes. Susie only had flip flops and she took a pair of men's shoes that looked a little large but she didn't care. She was so excited to get the shoes! I bet she told us 10 times how awesome it was we were there and may God Bless us. Vinny made sure to tell us he had everything he needed and was ok. He is trying so hard!

Susie told us they were all trying to help Rabbit quit drinking. She said she wouldn't lie and that he was drinking but very little. At the stage he was at stopping cold turkey is almost physically impossible and will impact your health. Vinny also said they were encouraging each other and that is a great thing. We will keep praying for them!

They told us the men were preparing for the cold this week-end. They were adding tarps over the tops of tents and chopping wood. Susie said Rabbit got great satisfaction chopping wood and helping. Giving and participating in good causes makes even the down trodden feel better!

Thomas was very nice and grateful for the lunch. His eyes lit up when I said my name and asked him his. Just the simple fact that we care enough to ask feeds him more than the sandwich. To shake a hand no matter how dirty touches the most hardened hearts. These folks long for those connections and touches. No matter who you are or what you have, as long as you are breathing you can give of yourself and it will be appreciated! Not to mention God will notice...

At The Edge it was starting to rain so a poncho sounded good to Mike as we gave a lunch and asked how he was prepared for the cold. He said he had all he needed but a poncho would be nice. Again we see these folks aren't greedy and take as needed. They want to make sure the stuff gets to the right place.

Robert and new guy Steve sitting on the corner just watching traffic. Robert is in bad shape. He is 57 and looks 10 years older. He has had the same clothes on for 2 weeks. We gave him a hat, a new jacket (He had a thin wind breaker looking thing) and asked if he needed any more. He said no and Steve busted him out a little bit about his situation and we got to talking about growing up in Austin. Steve was my age and I would bet if we started naming names we would know a lot of the same people from school. This is my second experience seeing someone my own age that had been through much of the same things I have only we ended up in 2 totally different places.. They know Jesus and I know Jesus only we are worlds apart. Clear proof that God doesn't want us to all look the same and act the same!!

We stopped by Danny's chopper shop (He is a barbarian too along with his wife!) A homeless man had told me he knew him so I wanted to talk to him about it. We quickly found out why God took us there as their Church has a detox house close to our run. Vicki got all the info so we can help if needed and maybe get some of these folks the help they ask for.

Isaiah got the last sandwich after he got told by a bike cop to get back over the guard rail. (I have never seen them do that before) His usual God bless and a big smile and wave. His coat was hanging on the rail and looked different than the wind breaker he had before so I am praying he got a new jacket since we saw him last. He had asked for a jacket the first day we saw him.

The theme this week: "If you are waiting on God you are backing up." He is already out there waiting on us to make a move. My suggestion: "Be ready to go because you are going to be swept away by an incredible rushing wind!"

--Rick

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I didnt get the chance to run with Vicki and Rick this week but I found that sometimes you just have to make time. Let see, this week I fixed a toilet, installed a garage door opener, mowed and edged the yard (for the last time this year), installed a new shower rod and curtain, etc, etc, etc....Over the past few days, minus sick kids, I found myself slowly filling up with "myself" again. Sometimes you have to do things and I found that one of those things was visiting with my friends at the Cove.

This morning I was headed to do a personal errand, when I started to chat with JC and asked Him to get me refocused on what counts, versus myself. Sure, taking care of honey-dos and errands is part of everyday life, but I knew something was missing. As I was off to take care of myself once again this week, I found myself heading into HEB to pick up an 18lb bag of oranges and some apples. The next thing you know I am cruising down the road and parked at the Cove.

I met up with Jimmy, aka Rabbit, Freedom and some others. I sat down to join them. We chatted about the cold front coming, gathering supplies, etc...but what struck a cord with me was Jimmy...and Proverbs 22:4. Jimmy asked me to read Proverbs 22:4 to my son and I promised him I would tonight...We also agreed next week I would have it memorized so Jimmy and I could discuss it.

I am so thankful for Jimmy and this afternoon. He asked me to do something that was God working through him....to me.

Proverbs 22:4
Humility and the fear of the LORD, bring wealth and honor and life.

Thanks Jimmy for slowing me down and helping me get refocused on what counts.

--Jerry

Sandwich Day 10 : November 13, 2007

2007-11-15T09:04:00.000-06:00

Another Haul!!

Menu: Sack Lunches to include sandwich, chips, cookie, pair of socks, gloves, poncho
Also taking: "Sack O Hats" - beautiful knitted hats made by Colette, her Mom and Aunt - shoes/boots - sweat shirts - long/short sleeve shirts.

It's me Rick and Jerry. We have so much stuff to give out that we are traveling in Jerry's new "daddy wagon". A beautiful new car with a God story behind it...but that goes into another diary.

The Cove - Back in Action

It's so good to see folks back. The group today is Rabbit, Teresa, Susie, Mary and Freedom.
As we walk up the ladies approach me and ask if we could talk. As we walk aside to visit, Rick and Jerry go over to Rabbit. It was so good to see Mary again. It's been several weeks. She is such a joy to me. She says that Freedom is 6 months pregnant, has not seen a doctor and needs to adopt the baby out. I am being asked if I can help. I told them that at the moment, I did not have any answers but I promised to find out how to get her some help. I asked them if they wanted to pray and spontaneously, they all took hands with me and bowed their heads. We prayed for Freedom and the unborn baby. Susie asked for prayer regarding her anger with another person in the camp. Man, I can relate to that one! I asked God to give me the wisdom to find help for Freedom.

I will jump forward for just a minute: I went back to the office and 5 phone calls later found a social worker who would help Freedom. Rick and I went back to the cove the next day and arranged for the social worker to meet Freedom and her husband within the hour. My prayer as I type this is - Dear God, please let this be the perfect help that you wanted Freedom to have. Thank you for social workers and the endless job that they have. In Jesus Name.

After we prayed we went to the car and started going through all the stuff. Everyone got a sack lunch and it was like Christmas as they picked out hats, coats, sweat shirts etc.

The Edge

For a moment it looks that there is no one around. Rick spots Pops and someone else under the bridge so we turn around to go to the other side of the highway. As we are sitting at the light, we see Sheldon sitting behind the guard rail. The light turns green just as Jerry got Sheldon's attention - Jerry had to do the "pitch n throw" of a sack lunch as we had to move on. Maybe we will see him next week and be able to visit.

You know how the side of the road slopes down to the highway? I find myself working my way down that slope - following Rick and Jerry who seem to have no problem with this...must be a guy thing. I heard Rick saying something about being a barbarian and taking risk. (Need I mention the prayer for protection that I didn't end up rolling into the middle of the highway?) I made it and wasn't too far behind the guys. I have never been under the bridge of a highway. It is VERY NOISEY. Pops and James are there. When Pops sees me he says..."Hi Baby Girl!" That was all I was able to hear the whole conversation...but it was enough! They received the sack lunches and the pair of boots that Rick had brought to Pops. Pops and I threw each other a kiss goodbye and it was time to climb back up to the frontage road...which was much easier than going down...hmmm...I wonder if there is a sermon there.

One sack lunch left. I am starting to enjoy this time of our trip. I like to see where God wants the last lunch to go. Today, it didn't take long to find out. As we got back to the car, Rick sees a guy leaning up against the building where we are parked. His name is Robert and he is in pretty bad shape. He is hard to understand. He says that he is missing all toes on one foot and has only three toes on the other foot. Rick went back to the car to get him some boots and a jacket. I asked Robert if he knew Jesus and his head came up and with all sincerity answered "yes I do, He saved me". Robert said that he had just been praying before we came up. I asked him what he was praying for and he said he was telling God that he was hungry and needing help. I wanted to cry. I told him that we had some food for him and Rick was bringing some clothes. I asked him if he wanted to pray and he took off his cap and said yes. We prayed in Jesus name to our creator for protection and provision until we could all be together in eternity.

Have I mentioned how much I love these people?
Blessings until next Tuesday.

--Vicki

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It was an awesome day!

We went past The Gap and didn't see anyone.. made us wonder who all we might see.

We get to the cove and it is SO AWESOME! They are all there waiting on us. After all this time they are now gathering up to meet with us. It sure makes it easier when you have more than lunches. It was a prayer answered. We had just talked about trying to distribute fair and ensure stuff got to it's intended spot. It is so much easier when they are all together.

It was women's day at the cove. They were all there and so excited to see Vicki. They went off and did the Woman thing while Jerry and I went over to see the guys. As usual Taz ran.. Not sure yet what he is running from but he always leaves when we show up. Rabbit had been drinking. He told me he needed to talk to me alone.. Not a problem considering where we were. He was embarrassed and ashamed he had started drinking again. He really did feel bad. Jerry and I both encouraged him and told him we knew how tough it was. We also ensured him we believed Jesus could help him if he let him. I reminded him that "No weapon formed against you can prosper unless you make it". He wanted to pray for us so we let him. Powerful heartfelt prayer that touched me deeply. You can feel his love through the words. He said he would start trying again. I continue my prayers for him. He gave Jerry and I street names. I got "Spike" and Jerry got "Wheeler" Not exactly sure where those came from other than Rabbit's heart. Vicki and Rabbit had some words. He knows she wants what is best and she is tough on him. He prayed for her and I may be wrong but I think in the prayer she got named the "Brat" :-)

We gave out the stuff and they were very excited about the hats! It was very warm and they didn't need them but this morning it is 55 again with a 25 MPH wind and I am sure they are displaying them proudly. Vicki got with Vinny and ordered 20 of his special key chains. Probably the biggest order in the history of his business. He is very pleasant and trying very hard.

When Vicki asked the women to pray, Theresa bowed out. It was strange. The next day when we told Freedom about the help that was coming, Theresa came and told Vicki she was sorry. She said she didn't feel good the day before. These people have such sweet thoughtful souls. As soon as we got there for Freedom, a new guy, Rob I think, came straight to me and started digging for a card from a Church. He said he thought they could help Freedom. When I told him that we were there to make the social worker connection he just grabbed me and hugged me. He told me of bikes he had in the past and we had a good chat. He apologized at the end because "We had to meet in these circumstances" I asked him "What circumstances?" He smiled and said thanks for not judging us. He is just a part of their community and he was so concerned about Freedom. She has a husband and this "Family" that truly does show the love. (I will add that Rabbit was sober and Grumpy! More prayers for the
Rabbit.)

We still haven't had anyone ask us for money. They are grateful and thoughtful and even when we have a car load of stuff they don't take without asking. In fact most times you really have to encourage them. They could have easily started getting it all and we probably would have let them have it all.

Down the hill at The Edge, Pop's eyes got big when he saw the Army boots I had promised him. Big genuine smiles from Pop's and James both. We couldn't hear at all it was so loud from the traffic. Pop's said they didn't talk much down there. I guess the noise drowns out the world. They took, sandwich bags, boots and hats and some long sleeve shirts. We waved by and climbed back up the hill..

Robert was at the top waiting on that last bag. God put him in the path because he told us he never sits there and showed us where he usually is. We would have missed him if he had been anywhere else. He said his pack had just been taken so he didn't have any way to carry a lot of stuff so we got one of the tougher bags we had and packed a windbreaker (One of my old favorites) some boots and a long sleeve shirt. He accepeted the prayers with wet eyes. We all felt the presence of God.. His Grace and Mercy are beyond measure or comprehension.

--Rick

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Accountability

Romans 14:12 says, "So then each of us shall give account of himself to God."

Rick and Vicki do a GREAT job at recapping the events of the day so I won't get too into what took place. First let me state that, Rick, Vicki and I know our responsiblity is to feed, clothe and support those in need and if we get the chance to pray with them it just makes it that much more exciting for God and us.

However one thing that keeps coming back to me is Taz. I have never met him and have only seen him twice. He moves out of the area as soon as we show up as Rick mentioned. It makes me wonder what could possibly be going on, or what we may be doing to move him out...Is it pride, which is understandable...Is it fear of God?...understandable as well...Accountability is something we all struggle with. I can relate as to only a few months ago the fact that I was going to be held accountable for my very existance and what I had done with my short time here hit me like a semi truck.

I then think of so many other people in my life that move out of the "situation" when the topic of salvation, God, Jesus, or Faith pops up. It is not just Taz, its my coworkers, my friends, my own family. People I have know for many years to just a few days, just dont want to talk about God.

I find it amazing that the creator of the universe takes a daily interest in what I do and how our relationship grows. He knows I fall down, we all do, I know He will pick me up again.

I pray that each window of opportunity God gives me to reach others is used for His greater purpose and not my own.

Psalm 143:8
"Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul."

--Jerry

Sandwich Day 9 : November 6, 2007

2007-11-08T12:50:00.000-06:00

Menu: Sacked lunch (sandwich, chips, cookie - Halloween candy)
Barbarian tribe includes Rick (back from Galveston), Jerry and myself.

The Cove

As we approach the Cove we can see some folks. As we pull up there are four people and a dog - immediately I am mad at myself...I don't have dog treats again. As we are walking up I recognize Rabbit! Standing tall and SOBER! He looked like a different man and I am so happy to see him doing this well. At the same time, I see Rabbit back in his old surroundings so soon - trying to do it on his own. He has chosen a very rocky path. Rick and Jerry were totally rejoicing with Rabbit and encouraging him. I will let them expand on the Rabbit factor. One fellow left as we were walking up - it was as if he wanted nothing to do with what we were about. The other two were Patrick and Melissa and a dog named Jenny. As Rick and Jerry spoke with Patrick and Rabbit, I walked over to Melissa who stayed off to herself. I looked her in the eyes and smiled as I introduced myself and tears came to her eyes. We truly don't realize the power of a simple smile. Her and Patrick and Jenny the dog have been on the streets this time for about a year. They hit financial hard times. She said that it's hard living this way. I have a new friend and I am going to what I can to lift her spirits next week. Seems like God has taken Mary out of my life but now has given me Melissa. We all stood together in prayer and it was time for us to move on.

Howard

As we pulled into the gas station to park - Rick was preaching a sermon on serving and Jerry was chiming in...when Linda the store clerk came out to the car. She said that Mary and Joe had been there yesterday. She told them that we had been asking about them. Someone named Red had died and it has been hard on Mary to deal with. I pray that she will be ok. We could see someone sitting under the overpass so off we go. As we approch this fellow, he is sound asleep sitting up. He could not hear us over the noise of the traffic but finally he woke. Rick handed him the sack lunch and he kinda was still waking up. He was a gentle soul - I could see that in his eyes. I knelt down beside him and he told me his name was Chris. He knows Jesus so we prayed over his lunch and for his protection. Time to move on.
Parme Lane - at the light is Isaiah. Rick hands him a lunch. He says that he really needs a jacket. It is starting to get cold and these folks know what that means. There was a desparation in Isaiah that brought me to a reality once again of all the things that I take for granted...like a coat.

The Edge - The Split Up

This is funny...we are at the light waiting to take a left. Here comes a fellow walking toward us. It is obvious that the light will change before he gets to us. What are we to do? We tell Jerry to get out and GO!! And God love him...he did. So we leave Jerry on the corner and go park the car at the gas station on the other side of the highway.
POPS!!! So good to see him! It's been a couple of weeks. Rick and I visit with Pops for a few minutes when Rick sees a guy under the bridge. So off Rick goes for more lunches and I stay with Pops. For a instance, you now can see me on the corner with Pops, Jerry on the other side of the highway and Rick under the bridge. Pops gives me his sign. So for a moment - I stood in Pops shoes - holding a sign watching cars pass by. I was holding the sign with one hand and give the peace sign with the other. I recommend everyone to experience this. Only one guy looked and gave the peace sign back. No one else even looked...or at least they made darn sure that I didn't see them look. I asked Pops if he is happy. He said yes. He said there is a differenc in being alone and being lonely. I understand that one. I asked him how he was doing with Jesus and he just smiled. I told him that I was still praying for him and I could tell that he was ok with that. Pops is really cool. Dear Lord, please, let's not lose him!
The three of us gathered back at the car with one lunch left...NOTHING GOES BACK...it was fun to see where the last lunch would go. It didn't take long.

The Gap - at the light is a lady named Freedom. We hand her the last lunch and she asked if we were the Biker Church people. We are becoming known. She said she is pregnant. She is smoking a cigarette and it's getting cold. This breaks my heart. We told her that we will be back next Tuesday and to be looking for us.

I have to keep reminding myself that my assignment is to feed them and it's not my business why they are hungry. I also have to remember that Jesus said there will always be the hungry. I feel like we are doing so little. Here comes the tears again. I thank you God for every .... single.....thing.

--Vicki
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This has become a highlight of my weeks. No matter how rough work might be these trips always lift me up! I love our Lord! I enjoy the barbarian fellowship!

It was so good to see Rabbit looking well. I hugged him immediately and told him how awesome it was. He is like a new man and he had to show us his sign that said 13 days sober. I pray next week it says 20! His new friends seem to understand and said they are helping him. I pray that is so. They seemed very nice and out of place. A gentle reminder we all aren't far from where they are. I reminded Rabbit about the load being taken off of him when he got saved "Like a ton of bricks" and told him he shouldn't pick the bricks back up. Let the Lord have them. I think he was a little upset about what happened getting to Temple and us leaving him and all, but at the same time I think he understands just why that happened. The Lord gently reminded him that is was His plan and I could almost feel it as we talked. He understands it did help him and accepts it even though it was painful.

It was awesome to see Linda, the store lady get involved and care about the folks. We really aren't alone in this world. There are barbarians everywhere! Chris at Howard Lane was nice polite and soft spoken.

We had a discussion about how these folks are fragile sweet souls and it is part of the reason they are where they are at. It takes fighters out there today to get by and these folks don't have that fight in them. As tough as they may look and the hardships they bear they just don't have the heart to be mean enough to do anything different. Wonder why Christ was homeless?

The cold is the enemy. Desperation and survival instincts are kicking in. Isaiah asked for a jacket. These are the first things they have requested of us. They aren't asking for money or dope, they need basic survival items.. The resources it would require to do this right are staggering.. I will be cleaning out the closet again. We have so much "Trash" that could be saving a life. Open up America. Hand deliver it, see a genuine smile. Goodwill is good but those items don't reach these folks. Give it where it counts, give from the heart the Lord has given you. The Edge we did what all good barbarians do, divide and conquer. It was good to see Pops and he told us of a new friend named James. He had just had a scuffle with Sheldon over a comforter that Pops said didn't belong to him and Jerry talked to Sheldon and his sleeping bag had been stolen. The cold is driving them to do things they hate but desperate men do desperate things and Sheldon had told Jerry he was very cold. It was 56 degrees and windy so we haven't even gotten to the bad stuff yet..

We will all feel the pain of Christ as we watch them suffer. People had to turn their eyes from the suffering of Christ. Stand on a corner with a sign and watch them turn their eyes from you. Christ reminded us they will always be there. It doesn't make it hurt any less. The last Sandwich went to Freedom. That really sounds profound. They are desperate slaves of hunger and cold. We are slaves to TV and telephones.. What would happen if everyone canceled their cable or cell phone and used the $100 a month to improve someone else's life? Not though a charity or a Church or any organization but through personal one on one interaction with someone who really needed it. What a blessing it could be to all!

I hope Time Warner or AT&T doesn't put a hit out on me for that last statement!

Blessings
--Rick
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Standing Strong but Cold...

One of the highlights today was Rabbi. We had no idea it was even him as we pulled up to the Cove. Only a few weeks ago I remember Rabbit could barely stand up little alone speak clearly. I didn't realize it but Rabbit is a pretty tall guy. He was now standing strong and looked as if he was again filled with hope. It is amazing how God works.

We also met up with Patrick, Melissa and Jenny. They were a very nice couple fighting to stay warm and keep their heads above water. We all shared with each other different stories and rejoiced in Jimmy's sobriety. Before we left Vicki prayed for all of us and we handed out some pocket versions of John. We asked that as they travel and cross paths with those who may be seeking Jesus, that they hand one of the pocket books out. Sometimes we just need to stop slowing down the Gospel, and just get out of the way...

To each a path...

Red Light...GO! I jump out of the truck sack lunch in hand and make my way through traffic as my new friend Sheldon makes his way towards me. He can barely breathe, he has asthma and it is apparent. As we sit down to talk on the over pass of The Edge, while highway traffic is blowing by at 70 mph below us we find it quiet. I ask him if he would like a lunch and of course he is hungry. He starts off by asking if I am with the Church Under the Bridge, The Salvation Army, etc...I told him I am just a normal guy doing as God ask me to do according to His Word. I think Sheldon finds it hard to believe, and rightly so, that someone would take time to
stop and say hello let alone drop off a lunch. Sheldon fills me in on the downtown Austin homeless situation and it is apparent he is very frustrated with how the organization is being funded and ran in general. He talks of his sleeping bag being stolen and how things get cut-throat this time of year. I remind him that the personal relationship with Christ can keep us warm in upside down times. Before I left Sheldon I ask him if he would like to pray and he immediately grabbed my hands with both us his, almost clinging on for dear life.

We asked God to look after us as we moved throughout our day and that he may lead us both, under His protection, down the path He sees fit.

--Jerry

Sandwich Day 8 : October 30, 2007

2007-11-01T09:27:00.000-05:00

Menu: Sacked lunch to include, sandwich, chips, cookie, apple and pair of socks.
It's me and Jerry this week - we are still short one barbarian (Rick) - who is in Galveston saving souls!

The Cove - Vacant.

We see Chris working the corner so we circle around and hand out a lunch at the red light. Chris thought that Rabbit was in the Temple VA hospital so we gave the "red light" version of the latest that we knew. Doesn't seem like Rabbit has surfaced yet.

The Gap

We meet a new friend named Paul and gave him a lunch. On the other corner was Joe! I really like him. He has such a good heart - he really cares for his community. He introduced us to two new friends, Red and Tex. Good folks. The three of them are looking for work and are heading to Waco. They may not be around long. We left them with lunches and blankets.

Howard - Vacant - This is where it started and no one has been here for a few weeks now. Making me sad. I always look forward to seeing Mary and again I miss her.

The Exchange

The ARM ministries are collecting for their cause. The fellow who came to the car briefly told his story of a past filled with drug abuse and today he stands tall with Jesus reaching out to help others. Right there is what it is all about. Dear God, I pray you pour out huge blessings over these "faith-ers" - they are not ashamed of the gospel!!

The Edge - Vacant - What is going on Lord? Last week we set out a little too early. This week we are at the lunch hour and still no one.

As we drive east and see Rory walking back to his camp. He was on the other side of the street and we had to drive past and park on a side street. We got out of the car and by the time we started walking back - he had turned into the woods. We walked the side walk calling out to him but he probably didn't hear us over the traffic. It made me sad that Jerry did not get to say hello. I think he was looking forward to seeing Rory again.

Heading back - The Exchange - Red Light - We see Graham. He is the one who wears the shirt that says "I don't bite, I'm just hungry". We gave him a lunch and two extras for his friends who were on the other side of the highway.

The Cove - Red Light - New friend Don - I held out the lunch and a blanket. He took it and said "Oh thank you, I am so hungry." He said his street name was "Trip". I asked him if he knew Jesus. He said "Oh Yes"!! He said if you watch closely, you can see me singing to God while I'm out here. He listed off the songs that he sings. He said that he may look like he is low now but he has been much lower. He said that God just keeps bringing him higher and higher. He was so grateful for the lunch and blanket. He was my special blessing for the day.

We had three blankets and three lunches left. We have a new rule that we take nothing back so we circled back to Joe and dropped off the remaining. Things just work out for the best - I know that he will make sure it is shared.

As I sit in my comfortable surroundings, full stomach and sipping coffee...I thank God for every single provision that I have been blessed with. This sandwich day was uneventful compared to the others. This sounds crazy but who would bless me if they all found homes?

--Vicki

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As Vicki noted above the past few weeks we have seen smaller numbers of our new friends each and every week. It seems some are still around the area and others are just gone...

We have to remind ourselves that our friends are transient and travel at their own pace. They don't have voicemail to check, pagers going off or conference calls to attend. They have no set schedule like the rest of the world...

The Edge : Rory

Vacant. We start down the road past the Jack in the Box and see Rory walking casually down the sidewalk, but by the time we got parked and back around he had already made his way down the path off the sidewalk. I find myself wondering since we were later in the morning than last week if he headed back home thinking we would not be back. God willing I will get to catch up to him next week...

The Gap : 2 Reds and a Tex

The first time around we had the pleasure to meet up with Joe (Red) and two new friends, Red and Tex. All three were and talking about making their way up to Waco for a while. "New" Red shared with us that he had retrieved all of his documents, DL, SSN, etc and was a jack of all trades handy man. He showed us the peace sign several times and that reminded me that as Jesus greeted his diciples He stated, "Peace be with you". After chatting with them for a while Vicki and I moved on only to find ourselves back at The Gap later in the morning, to drop off the rest of the goods to Joe and company in an improvised version of the "Pitch N' Throw"...

"Take nothing back" as Vicki stated. God's hands are involved in absolutely everything going on and there is a reason for Joe and company getting those extra blankets.

Peace be with you...

--Jerry

Sandwich Day 7 : October 23, 2007

2007-10-25T10:09:00.000-05:00

Rick can't go today so it's me and Jerry.
The menu: sacked lunches (sandwich, chips, cookie and apple)
An angel left a box of blankets and socks at my desk while I was away. I love this new life I'm in!! There is never a dull moment with God!!

The Cove

We show up and there is no one there. The store clerk did not have details but said that the cove folks were asked to move. Hmmmm.

Howard - Vacant. Jerry went into the store and spoke with Linda. She said that she has not seen Mary or Joe in a couple of days. To be honest, I am wondering what is happening. I am missing my friends.

The Edge

There's Harry! He's working the corner. We take him a lunch and say hello. He says that his brother Larry and Pops are still at the camp. We make sure that he has lunches to take back to them.

Across the street we see new friends - Danny and Maggie and Precious (their dog). Maggie is in the wheel chair and Precious leash is tied to the wheel chair. We introduce ourselves and give each a lunch and one for Precious. We also gave them a couple of blankets. I am once again kicking myself for forgetting the dog treats. I asked them if there was anything they wanted to pray for. Maggie's father, Tom, has lost his wife to cancer. So we prayed for Tom to be comforted from his lost. We prayed special protection over Danny and Maggie. I love standing in the middle of a world of traffic, noise and exhaust fumes...and right in the middle of it all ... is God.

Down the street at the bus stop sits Rory, another new friend. He refused a sack lunch...said he was full. I said that I did not mean to offend him. He smiled and said that he could not be offended. I asked him if he knew Jesus and he said that he was agnostic. He was raised Pentecostal and knew the Bible. There is a special gentle kindness about him. I asked him if I could pray to the God I knew and to the God he questioned. He laughed and agreed. So I prayed that God would open his eyes to the relationship with Jesus. Rory really touched Jerry's heart so I will let Jerry take it from here.

Howard again...

As we were going back - we see Vinny at the corner store filling containers with water from the outside faucet. I really like Vinny. He said that he will be adding to his key chain collections - soon he will have earrings and necklaces also. I asked him where everyone was from the Cove and Howard overpass. He said that some trouble makers came through and the police had to be called. Seems like the Cove is off limits for now but he seems to think that folks will be back after the dust settles. He says that Mary and Joe are fine, they will be coming along soon. I asked him if he knew Rabbit and he said that he was in the Temple VA hospital. I was glad to find someone who we could tell what had happened. He said that Rabbit was probably on his way back here. It was important to me that Vinny knew that Rabbit does not have VA benefits. I really don't know if Rabbit understands that. There are no coincidences in God's army. Before we got to this stop, we gave some money to the folks collecting for ARM (Austin Restoration Ministries). I asked him if they would take anyone and he said yes. I told him to keep Rabbit in prayer and to be looking out for him. I gave Vinny the flyer from the ARM folks and told him that they would help Rabbit. Maybe this is where Rabbit is suppose to go. Vinny said that Ernie and ? (can't remember who) was off helping to remodel a house and will be gone for a couple of weeks. I'm glad that they found some work. We sent plenty of lunches with Vinny to take back to Mary and Joe. I miss them.

We had one lunch left and as Jerry called it...the "pitch and throw"...there was a guy under the Grand Ave overpass and Jerry had to pitch it from the window as we went by. We didn't get his name but we heard him yell "God Bless You" as we drove away.

As I finish - I lift them all up to you Lord and say thank you for the privilege of knowing them.

--Vicki

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No Vacancy

First let me say that Vicki does a GREAT job at covering the details and if all that was posted was her blog then it would be more than enough.

When it came time for Sandwich Day this week, we found we would be short one Barbarian, but God had work for us today.

The Cove

First stop, Vacant, according to Vinny who we met up with at Howard Lane later in the morning, he shared with us the Cove had some folks causing trouble move through so they had to clear it out for a short time.

Howard

Second Stop, Vacant, I spoke with Linda who works at the convience store on the corner and she said that Mary and Joe hae not been seen in a few days, but hears they are fine, just holding at camp.

The Edge

We almost packed it up for the morning until we saw Harry on the other side of the access road working. We dropped off a few lunches for him, Pops, and his brother and wished him well. We moved across the street to catch up with Danny, Maggie, and Precious. We prayed for them as well as Maggie's father Tom, who had lost two loved ones recently. A reminder once again, one thing is for sure in this short life we have on earth. Death. We all WILL die and a physical death is our punishment for sin believer or not. The Good news is that through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, God offers a New life to each one of us.

Rory.

Rory who sat on a bench, legs crossed, enjoying the morning seemed a bit out of place. His shirt tucked in, beard trimmed and very articulate in his speech just seemed out of place. His eyes, much like my own father's eyes were a blue-green ice color. He came across, at peace with his surroundings and needed nothing more. As we spoke with Rory we found his need was not food or clothing but needing relationship with Christ. He was now agnostic, raised Pentecostal, and it seemed as if he had been burned by religion somewhere in his past. I can relate, not only myself to such a scenario but my father as well. We were both part of a "religion" at one time and both knew we did not fit into such a mold. I went seeking and found Jesus Christ, my father is still seeking much like Rory.

My father and Rory are both noble men, who would more than likely help anyone out who needed it. I can see that God is working through them each and every day and as I write this it becomes hard to distinguish between Rory and my own father. They both seem very alike. Before Vicki and I leave Rory for the day we pray that God revels himself to Rory in a way God sees fit. I can only pray that the scales fall from both, my father's and Rory's, eyes and they turn their focus from pride and focus on the self to focusing on the God I personally know.

God willing.....I cannot wait until next week to meet up with Rory again.

--Jerry

Sandwich Day 6 : October 16, 2007

2007-10-18T13:09:00.000-05:00

Not an ordinary day. This will be long but it needs to be documented.

Menu: Sacked lunches, bolonga & cheese sandwiches, chips and cookie. Fresh farm eggs from Rick. We hit the "mother load" with Jerry. He showed up with several large bags full of all kinds of clothes. We set off knowing this will not be an ordinary run.

The Cove

There is a "cove" on the corner that is formed by a rock wall which provides a great place for one group of our friends to gather during the day. The gas station allows them to stay there in return for keeping the parking lot cleaned up. I bet this is an unoffical agreement with the gas station management (probably barbarians).

I am not sure how I can get this all down on paper. I pray that God will make sure that what He wants told is brought forward...that's all that matters.

This is as far as we get on this day. In the cove is Claude, Joe, Earnie, Chris, Kevin (I can't remember his name) and Rabbit who is very sick and laying down. This is the day that we have promised to get Rabbit to the VA clinic in Cedar Park for medical help.

The group accepted all of the food and clothing gratefully and promised to make sure that all gets shared. Our mission was to get Rabbit medical help. He is in bad shape. Rabbit is extremely alcoholic and you don't have to be a doctor to know that he is going to die if he does not get detoxed soon. As Rick and Jerry helped get Rabbit into the truck - the rest of us prayed for Rabbit's healing. I love praying with these people.

The ride to Cedar Park was somber. Rabbit knows Jesus...and Jesus knows Rabbit. If the religious crowd can't handle that...all I can do is warn them to keep their mouths shut... I'm in no mood for their judgements...I'm very close to turning a few temple tables over! Rabbit has a great sense of humor which he has hidden his pain behind. I can relate to that.

We get to the clinic and they cannot find Rabbit in the computer. It took the three of us to push for them to keep trying. At one point, Rick takes Rabbit outside for a smoke while Jerry and I are with the lady as she searches for Rabbit in the computer. I noticed that Jerry is holding his head and looking at the floor...I asked him if he was praying and he said yes. I joined him ... it wasn't too much longer after that when the lady said..."here is somthing". Another answered prayer. Thank you Lord. To make a long red tape story short...we got Rabbit entered into the computer and then waited for a least an hour until the doctor saw him. Rick went in with Rabbit while Jerry and I stayed in the waiting room.

The doctor knew that Rabbit needed to be hospitalized fast. He was already showing signs of seizure. Arrangements were made with Temple hospital that we would be bringing Rabbit to the emergency room immediately. It was around 2:30pm - we dropped Jerry off at his house as he was needed at home. Off to temple we go. On the ride to Temple, Rabbit told more of his story. He comes from foster homes and a painful past including two failed marriages and a son. He admits that he is scared to sober up. I can relate again.

We get to Temple and get Rabbit into a wheelchair and Rick goes to park the truck. While we were waiting...Rabbit promises me that he will not give up. He knows what the coming days will bring....detoxing is not pretty. My heart is breaking for him.

We get him checked in - we say a pray over him and it's time to go. I spent most of my night in intersession. Not by choice...it was the most painful intersession I have experienced. I was probaly detoxing with Rabbit. What I did not know was ... Rabbit was never admitted to the hospital.

The next morning at work Rick tells me that they called him that night and said that Rabbit was not eligible for benefits. The Cedar Park clinic had made a mistake. Rabbit had been taken to a shelter close by. They said that he was asking for us to come get him. There is a health privacy act that keeps the hospital from giving us much information. What we do know is that this shelter can help detox Rabbit.

I believe with all my heart that God is in control. God knew Rabbit was not eligible for the VA hospital - I believe that God allowed the mistake at the CP clinic - I believe that God allow the doctor to see Rabbit - I believe that He knows that this shelter is where Rabbit can get help and we have been used to get him there. My prayer is that Rabbit does not leave this shelter. I am sure that at this point - he will try as the urge for a drink is probably overwhelming. Please Lord - send angels to hold him there.

I can't type anymore - the tears are falling again - not all of this story is told. Please keep Rabbit lifted up. He is truly a child of God.

--Vicki

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The Cove, A Family and a Place of Prayer.

In meeting the folks at the Cove for the first time, one thing was very apparent. These folks care about each other.
They rest in Faith that God will take care of them, and He will. As we concern ourselves with how we are going to pay for this or that while enjoying our catered lunches and dinners, the family at the cove is concerned with taking care of each other and thankful for something as small as a sacked lunch. God has such a presence their life it is amazing. You see Him working through each of my new friends in different ways and one of those ways was Rabbit.

My first encounter with Rabbit was yesterday. Vicki already covered the facts of the day and where Jimmy is now so I won’t. However, what I was blessed with yesterday was the chance to get to know Rabbit if only for a few hours. Rabbit has a GREAT sense of humor, but I know it also hides pain.

While we were waiting to get Rabbit back to see the Doctor, at the clinic, I noticed he was staring at this beautiful watercolor painting on the wall. For visual purposes, the painting was of a beautiful house on a pond surrounded by trees and flowers of all kinds. Rabbit decided it was Ireland. As he was staring at the painting, he stated, "Who painted a picture of my house?" Vicki and I chuckled along with Rabbit as he started to talk about the painting. Others in the room sadly turned their heads from him. As Rabbit started talking about the painting he asked, where is my canoe?" I didn’t notice a canoe until he said that, and I pointed out that it was on the other side of the pond. We agreed he parked it over there to take a nap under the tree. He also noticed that a woman and little girl were strolling through the flowers along the bank of the pond. As he stared at this painting I came to the understanding that Rabbit had a life similar to this before today. He had a house, maybe not a mansion in Ireland, but a house, a wife, and a child. Rabbit said he wants to become part of society again and is making an effort and I admire him for that.

It is not my place to ask why Rabbit is where he is now and how he got there, just to pray that God can lead him and take care of him.

--Jerry

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I love our friends.. Without a doubt I know that if I ever needed anything they would gladly give me all they had knowing God would provide more. They live what Jesus preached much better than most all "Church" going people I know. They know Jesus, they know the Bible and they apply their faith daily to survive. I would like to believe I do too but it sure isn't at this level.

I never get around these people that I don't hear several sermons as they speak and interact with us. This day was no different. I got to really talk to Rabbit this time and ask about him and his life. We are the same age which started the conversation but I found out we had much more in common.

Rabbit's birthday is 12-28-56. He will be 51 in December. Like me he has three kids, the oldest a couple of years younger than my oldest but his next son is a year younger than the first just like mine. Then a space of time and a third. I didn't find out for sure but it might be from the second wife just like mine. He has been on the streets for 17 years. 17 years ago I was newly divorced and "Homeless". His past before that was rough and ugly with foster homes and such so when this final incident hit him it was just to much and he was pushed over the edge. I could have been where he is so easy.

Rabbit is smart, has good vision and a memory that shocks me knowing the abuses he has been through. He is very observant as he sits quietly as Jerry's story of the picture tells. Everyone I have talked to seems to look sad when they talk about their lost families. I wonder what would happen if his family could see him like this now.

Rabbit told us the story of when he was saved. He said the Lord struck him and he cried so hysterically he laughed. He said a weight like a ton of bricks was removed from him. I asked him why he had picked all the bricks back up? I told him he needed to let them go again. I pray this time his bricks are removed forever and he can walk upright without the very obvious load he carries today. His "Rabbit shuffle" is due to this terrible load.

Rabbit made it very clear he was going to pray that we got paid back many times over for what we were doing. The blessings from these events are far greater than most folks can imagine with their religiously sterilized brains. I am already paid back a thousand times and then some.

The nurse at the clinic was so sweet to Rabbit. She was Christian and wanted a card so she could come to our Church. She said where she was going just wasn't getting it since the Pastor moved on. I hope she comes to Church, she saw our hearts and was touched. The Doctor on the other hand was rough and honest (Though attractive and Rabbit flirted with her). She told Rabbit he was going to have to help and apply himself and that she didn't want to waste resources if he wasn't going to try and do right. Seeing the obvious lack of resources for help I understand where she was coming from. The VA system is about as bad as it gets. You WILL need God's help if you have the misfortune of needing this system.

All the folks back at the hole were happy to hear Rabbit was going to be helped. I saw general looks of concern when we told them he was close to death if he kept going. You could see the wheels turning as they thought of their own situations. Claude asked if I knew someone who could get him a Net-ten card for his phone. He has an Aunt he tries to stay in touch with. It seemd very important after he heard about Rabbit. Maybe he will seek escape from this place.. I will find the phone card.

We had all kinds of stuff and our "Trash" became Christmas at the hole. The food, clothes, bedding, bicycle and our friendship made for a great time, just like Christmas should be! Honest thoughtful gifts that would help them live better and not the useless clutter junk we all see millions of dollars spent on at Christmas time. What does Jesus say as he looks on the waste we have in our country today? How many vets could we care for with the money we spent to put a 2'X3' picture of the President up in every federal office? Don't we all know who he is? They need to hang a picture of Jesus. Much more effective and it will save money! You won't be having to change it every 4 years..

--Rick

Sandwich Day 5 : October 9, 2007

2007-10-11T10:32:00.000-05:00

What an awsome day it was. The menu just keeps getting better and better!

Our barbarian sister, Sandy, blessed us with 10 large bags of "goodies" to take with us to hand out. They were filled will canned meat, fruit cups, bags of chips, candy, bottled water, pair of socks and various packages of crackers etc. Rick bought a large 20 piece box of chicken and some small bags to put a couple of pieces in for our friends.

The Gap

On the way to pick up the chicken, Rick sees Claude. He is wearing his cowboy hat and holding a sign that says "Jesus was homeless too!". He said that Joe was across the street and would be back soon. We were stopped at a red light so we didn't get to visit much. We handed him one of Sandy's bags and one for Joe when he returned. It was neat to see the expression when he saw this big bag of food. I'm sad that we missed seeing Joe, I was hoping to be blessed with another prayer from him.

The Cove

We got the chicken and as we came out we see a new guy at the intersection. His name is Larry. He is very soft spoken which makes it hard to hear over the traffic. I asked him how he was doing and he answered that he was "pissed off". I saw that his sign said that he was hungry and we could at least help him with that problem! He smiled a gentle smile when we handed him the goodie bag and chicken. He shook Rick's hand and gave me a little hug and as we started to cross the street, he said, I'll be ok.

Then across the street sits Rabbit with a new guy. Rick bags up more chicken, I take two goodie bags and we are off! The new guy is name Ernie and he was just saying this morning how he was going to get some chicken! Rick told him that his prayer was answered! We stayed and visited as both of them ate. Ernie told of places where he has been. He is one of those folks that age well...kind of a young older person. He cares for his friend Rabbit who needs to get to the VA hospital in Temple. Rick is working on that. They asked if there was a way to get to our church...Rick is working on that too! I will take a minute right now to say - Lord, we need a bus and I know you already have one picked out so I will thank you in advance for it! We said a small prayer with Ernie and Rabbit as it was time to move on.

Howard

We meet Vinny who is selling neat key chains for $3.00 each. Of course Rick bought one. Vinny is different - he does not have the wear and tear that the others have. He accepted the food gratefully. I wonder if we will see him again - if so, I want to make a point to get to know him better.

Under the overpass sits Theresa and Joe. I was disappointed that Mary was not there. Joe said that she was "at home" and would be around later. So we sat down and had our lunch with these folks. We munched chicken and Theresa told me she had seven grandchildren. She asked me about me and I heard myself tell her that I liked getting away and being with real people. Her eyes smiled at that. Joe was telling stories on Mary and the dogs. They really appreciated the goodie bags and we made sure that we left some for Mary.

The Edge

Here we meet Harry and Larry...they are twins! They are hungry and have hit the jackpot with the chicken and goodie bags! Harry tells us that Pops will be there soon. We find out that they all live in the woods down the road. This could be the location of that Bar-B-Que that Rick is wanting to do...meaning do it right...steaks...along with all the fixins! Harry thinks this is a great idea!! Rick bags up the last bag of chicken for Harry to give to Pops when he gets there. As we are heading back, we see Pops walking to "work". I'm sorry that we didn't get to visit with him but I know that he will enjoy his lunch!

I read somewhere that giving is not real if there is no sacrifice. I started out to give and all I am doing is receiving.

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Rick - My take..

The Lord does the most amazing things. The message this week was "Get while it is hot". Ernie about cracked me up as he kept saying "This chicken is still hot!", "Rabbit, eat your chicken while it is hot!"

We all need to take God's blessings while "They are hot!" When they get laid at your feet pick them up and run like a Rugby player! The warmth that comes with these hot blessings is beyond description. Using faith instead of contemplating everything pleases God!

We saw a lot of the same folks we know. This trip they made a much bigger attempt to remember our names. We are forming a bond through our walk and they feel more comfortable talking to us. I feel a lot of the "Show" they normally put on to survive is slipping away and honest relationships are forming. I think they know we will be coming back no matter what else happens so they can just be normal. They are sharing wounds, alcoholism and other issues much more freely now. Makes it easier to share back that Jesus can heal them all.

We had a couple of new experiences this week. Vinny with his key chains was cool. He is trying very hard not to be where he is at or at least offer something in return for help. Easy to see he doesn't feel as if he is owed anything.. Harry and Larry the twins, they are "Camping" and have a little more of a home life than just the overpass. They live by Pops and you can tell they all have a bond.

All of these folks all have a bond and look out for and love one another. Reminds me of the biker community (Probably why we are fitting in). What has happened to the rest of the world to make them loose that bond and love for one another? The enemy loves selfishness and he is very good at spreading it. From the "Real" people perspective it looks magnified like some mutating virus devouring souls daily.

Sandwich Day 4 : October 2, 2007

2007-10-06T10:29:00.000-05:00

Howard

Mary, Joe and the two dogs were under the overpass. Mary and I had a lovely visit. She gave me some insight to her life on the streets. It's her choice to be there. Like all of us, she has a past. She is well versed in the Bible and loves Jesus. I am proud to say she is my friend and to treat her to lunch. Joe is a gentle quiet spirit. He spoke with Rick most of the time. He really liked the brisket sandwich that Lisa had brought last week. Making my bologna sandwiches look bad! I lead a prayer with the four of us and then Joe asked if he could pray. I couldn't hold back the tears as I listened to him thank God. He told Rick that he went to church as much as he could but a lot of the churches would not let him in. This made me want to go into the middle of the highway and scream out with all of my heart and soul. I stand before all who may read this and fear for any church of their fate if they be guilty of such an act.

The Edge

There's Pops!! His eyes light up as he sees us coming across the traffic to greet him. Naturally, he is grateful for the sandwich, apple and bottled water. He made sure that we knew how good those sandwiches were last week. That's it...I have to upgrade my menu!! I smiled as I looked at his feet and he was wearing the new socks that Michael has sent last week. Pops believes in God...I said a silent prayer as we walked away that he finds Jesus. On the corner is a lady that I have not seen before. I introduced myself and asked her name. She said Eva and as she saw the food, she started to cry. She had a cross necklace on and I asked her if she knew Jesus. She said yes, very much. So we said a prayer with her. Unlike Mary, Eva is not on this corner by choice. I lift her up to God this morning and pray for her comfort.

Back to Howard

It's time to get back and we took the remaining sandwiches back to Mary and Joe. James had joined them since we were there. We just handed the bag of food to them from the car window and of course were told..."God Bless You" as we drove off.We saw Rabbit at Grand Ave intersection but was not able to stop this time. He did not see us but God sees Rabbit and I pray special blesses over him. This is week #4 of sandwich days...out of the folks yesterday, Eva was the only one that we did not know. What a blessing these new friends are. I started out to give to people and this is becoming a selfish mission...I am doing all of the receiving. How beautiful God's way is.

--Vicki

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My take..This time was special. As we approached this time it wasn't about the food, it was about the smiles and friendship. They were just happy to see us. That part was so awesome, a relationship has bloomed.. They surely remember little things like the awesome sandwiches. There are so many days I wish a brisket sandwich had that kind of impact on my life. We take so much for granted.

Joe is seeking God. He so wants to quit drinking, he said it was what kept him where he was. I told him to keep praying and asking for help. It will come in Jesus name! Joe wanted to pray for us. What a blessing. He also wanted us to come get him and take him to Church.. We need to pray for a bus :-) Mary is so sweet. She told us waking up to the birds and crickets was a huge part of her freedom and life. She said she was "institutionalized" to that and it was a main reason she stayed on the streets. She is happy and free and knows the Bible better than most folks I know. She is really free. So many long for that freedom and will never find it because they have so much baggage they can't turn loose of.

Pops was especially friendly today and seemed alert and happy. His new socks may have made all the difference. He wants us to participate in the "Stand Down" they do in November to give warm cloths, sleeping bags and such to the homeless. it is aimed at the vets and we need to find out and participate. Eva was different. She looked out of place. She cried immediately when we gave her the food and continued as Vicki prayed. I think we may have had a bigger impact than we thought. When we came out of Danny's chopper shop she was gone. Who knows.. Maybe she was just an Angel looking to see who cared. We were blessed to see her.

Pops talked about how Eva was working while her husband ate. They refer to getting the sign and getting on the corner as working and I have heard that several times now. Most folks think they are just lazy and don't want to work. In the 4 weeks we have been to the corners I can tell you it is work. Hot, wet, dusty, noise, exhaust and the looks from the cars.. You probably couldn't pay people $15 an hour to do what they do.. And it doesn't pay good! They NEVER ask us for money, they take the food and say God Bless. In all the trips I have only seen one car giving them money..Another very blessed day..

--Rick

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Sandwich Day 3 : September 25, 2007

2007-10-01T13:25:00.000-05:00

The menu is brisket sandwich, chips, apple and bottled water. Lisa joined Rick and me this week. She also provided the sandwiches from the brisket that her husband, Joe, had smoked the night before. What a blessing! Oh…and Rick was sure to bring the Bibles!

Howard

Claude is sitting on the corner and is heading for Alabama with Joe who is sitting on the other side of highway. Claude is wearing a cowboy hat and receives the lunch with gratitude. I asked him if he had Jesus and his answer was that he believed but wasn’t really living right. I handed him a little pamphlet that is the book of John and I told him to read this and get back on track! He took the pamphlet with a smile. Lord, please bring him back.

Joe is sitting under the overpass with Mary who has been on streets for 3 years, and a fellow named James. They have two dogs with them who seem to be happy with their pack. I had to go back to the truck for more sandwiches so Rick and Lisa will have to report on these folks.

Neil – Rick handed lunch thru the truck window as we were at a red light (can’t remember which intersection).

Off Ramp Exit:
Red was standing in the median. He was raised in Austin and just got back from Florida. He suffers from epilepsy and will lose his job once this is found out. He accepted the lunch. As we were going back to the truck, I spoke to the epilepsy and told it to leave his body in Jesus name. I’m believing that he will never have another episode.

The Edge:
Pops – We met him last week but he just wandered up and got lunch and left. This week we spoke for a while. He says that God created the world for us to mess up. I asked him if he knew Jesus and he just nodded his head like saying no. I told him that Jesus was his hope for eternity. I’m not sure if he understood me over the roar of the traffic going by. I pray that next week I will have another chance to explain.

While waiting for the traffic to stop so we could get back to the truck…I for a moment look at the world thru the eyes of these folks. Cars lined up to take that right turn at the light. It was an empty feeling at the blank faces as they go by.

Graham – was at hospital last night – he wears a shirt that says, I don’t bite…I’m just hungry.

James (street name is Rabbit) has been on the street 17 years. What a gentle spirit he has. He said that his backpack had been stolen and he figures that whoever took it needed it more than he did. He says that Jesus is his savior and provider. I prayed with him that his things be restored to him. He then said that he would pray over his lunch that we receive a hundred fold for what we have given. How beautiful – now they are praying over us!

Kevin has been on the streets for 6 months. He said that his circumstances put him here. I gave him a pamphlet and promised that it would change his circumstances.
Grand Ave Parkway
Susie – standing on the corner. Rick handed her a lunch from the truck window. She had lost ID and was waiting to get some kind of license so she can work again. She said that she hated it on the streets and … “this can happen to anyone”.

Like before, we were told “God Bless You” as the lunches were received. Not once did I hear … “Buddha Bless You”…or “ Mohammed Bless You”…The Bible says that the Word is written on our hearts. As always – Dear God, In Jesus name, bless these beautiful people…keep them safe and comfortable.

--Vicki

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Rick - My take..

Lisa and John did a great job on the meals. I am sure it was a very special treat.

First group looked very rough. The only one talking at all really was Mary who had been on the streets for a while. She talked about the new leash law for her dog and how it could affect them. They must get newspapers because they seem to be fairly current on the news. One of them wanted extra apples. They shop mostly in convenience stores so maybe fruit is a little harder to come by. He had half of one eaten before I even got around to asking his name and shaking his hand. Their dogs (2) looked very healthy and protective. They barked a lot but calmed quickly.

This time they seemed to open up more about why they were there. We have heard lost IDs, epilepsy, Leavenworth (The prison), other health issues and just "circumstances" for being where they were.

Rabbit had been out on the street for a long time. He was a vet and said he lost his ID in his backpack when it got stolen and now he had no way to retrieve his veteran’s benefits. It is very sad that many of these folks are Vets. They signed up to give their lives for their country and sure enough they have done just that. They gave all and now they rely on the generosity of others to provide for them. If that isn't faith I don't know what is..

We saw a lot this week and as always we got "God Bless You" from them more than anywhere I go.

--Rick

Sandwich Day 2 : September 18, 2007

2007-09-19T12:27:00.000-05:00

This week it’s Rick and me again. Others will be joining in soon. The menu is sandwiches, apple and bottled water. To be honest, I didn’t think this week could top last week.

Howard - Dave & Spirit (a pretty Indian girl) are on the corner. They say they are on their way to Oklahoma. Rick introduces us as Bikers for Christ and Spirit ask if we possibly had a Bible they could have. Dave said that they read the Bible daily but had lost the one they had. Right off the bat – here we are with a bag of food and being asked for spiritual feeding. How sad that we did not have a Bible on us to give. Bet that never happens again. Rick told them that he would bring one to them tomorrow when he was on his bike. I hope this works out. They welcomed the lunch.

We look on the other side of the overpass and guess who we see? James & Samara (the cool dog with hat and sunglasses)!! It was so good to see them again!! Samara is one of those dogs that leans into you and he was leaning so close that he messed up his hat and his glasses fell off. They received the lunch and James asked if we could give them a ride to the truck stop a few exits down. We said that we would finish our route and pick him up on the way back.

The Edge - Paul Hall a Vet in wheelchair on the corner. Holding a sign and just staring into the traffic. As we walk up and offer the food, his smile is gentle as he accepts it.

Then there is Dave standing a little distance away. Like all of these folks, he is very dirty…and he smells really bad mixed with a strong nasty stench of alcohol. At first I could not understand a word he was saying. Then he popped his false teeth out and that helped allot. To be honest, this guy was kind of disgusting to me. I was glad that I had my sunglasses on so I could just hide and let Rick to the talking. He rambled on and on about who knows what. I caught a few sentences but really was just staring beyond him at the traffic. Rick seemed to be enjoying the conversation…I keep thinking of Colette (Rick’s wife) saying how Rick goes to Key West on vacation to hang out with the homeless folks.

In the middle of all this, a guy named Pop wanders over, he doesn’t hear very well but he took a sandwich and wandered back under the bridge.

It was finally time to go and I was really ready. Rick was shaking Dave’s hand and then it was time for Dave to shake mine. As I held out my hand, I kind of cringed inside…then something happened. This man’s countenance changed before my very eyes. I didn’t smell him anymore. His speech was clear and his eyes looked straight through my sunglasses. He simply reminded me that Jesus came into this world to die for us and save us from our sin. For a moment, I couldn’t move and I felt the Holy Spirit transfer from this dirty homeless man to me. Dear Lord, once again, forgive me for my judgmental behavior. We waved goodbye and ran across the road to the car.

We headed back to Howard Lane and picked up James and Samara. Samara is so well behaved. I looked in my rear view mirror and he is just sitting in the back sit with hat and sunglasses, just enjoying the ride. James says that there is a lady who stopped to tell him that she teaches classes at church and she uses Samara as an example of obedience. We let them out at the truck stop and wished them farewell. I wonder if I will ever see them again.

Jack and Taz were standing on the corner and we had just enough food left for them. They asked if we were from The Church Under the Bridge ministry. Rick said no, that we were Bikers for Christ. They thanked us as they took the food.

I find it interesting that these folks associate Christ to us as we bring food. So far, none of them has asked if we were with the atheists association…or the Lyon’s Club or whatever organization. They associate us with Jesus. I like that.

This wrapped up Sandwich Day for this week. In Jesus name, I lift up these folks to God for protection and provision. I thank you Lord for the privilege of meeting them and seeing you through them.

--Vicki

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From Rick:

My take..Since there wasn't any rain this time we saw a lot more folks. I don't know where all they went last week while it was raining but they were back. Rain must really be tough on them. Everything they own gets wet. A couple of them had made comments about drying all of their stuff.

I felt really bad this week when we didn't have a Bible. That won't happen again! I have several I carry in my bike but hadn't thought to grab one before we went. They were very nice, pleasant and very polite people. Genuine smiles and gratitude for the food. When we came back by from talking to James we found Dave had given his sandwich to Spirit so we gave them another. They made sure we knew James was across the street and James asked if we had seen them. These folks REALLY look out for one another..

Toothless Dave (He could talk with his teeth out, I wondered if they were his or he found them some where.) told us he had throat cancer. He has told me that before when I gave him money from the car. He was going on and on about the song from Tim McGraw "Live like you are dying" and talking about some show he saw on TV. That song is dated about 2 years ago so I wondered when he had seen it. His mouth was very foul (Language) and he apologized to Vicki a couple of times for it. Then in an instant he totally changed. His speech was clear and coherent. He started off with "I believe" and talked about how Jesus had died for us all and that Jesus was his personal savior. No question he got it..

We went back and got James to give him a ride. James seems like such a nice man and he sure loves his dog. Makes you wonder why he is out there. He talked about his daughter he hadn't seen in years as we crossed the street going back to the car and seemed sad. Maybe he was thinking "Here are strangers helping me and I have family". We probably won't ever know.

We saw Jack and Taz as we were dropping James off and parting ways. We gave them food and heard the usual "God Bless You". They asked if we were from the Church under the bridge. Made me think about 86% of America calling themselves Christians but ONE Church here in town has a reputation for helping the homeless..

Two trips now, met several people and they always take the food and we still haven't had one of them ask for money at all. They are hungry for more than drugs or booze and they are grateful for what we do..

Their faith really does carry them. I see people every day that have everything their hearts desire but lack this faith, even when blessed beyond belief. We should all take a lesson on their faith.

--Rick

Sandwich Day 1 : September 11, 2007

2007-09-13T08:59:00.000-05:00

Sandwich Day...looks like it will be every Tuesday until God says different. This Tuesday, Rick and I took a sack of sandwiches at lunch time and set out to feed the homeless. The overpass at Howard Lane was our first stop. I will never be the same.

His name is Randy - dirty nasty guy sitting under the overpass - a beer sitting beside him next to the package of Buglar tobacco. His fingers were yellow from rolling / smoking the cigarettes.

Rick introduced us as Bikers for Christ and asked if he would like a sandwich. Naturally, Randy said yes. I then asked him if he was a believer. His answer was a huge NO! He then proceeded to say that he is a FAITH person.

For about the next 30 minutes Rick and I listened to a sermon on faith that any pastor would only hope to be able to deliver. I didn't flinch at what it must have looked like as we sat under the overpass and listened to Randy preach loudly and passionately over the noise of the traffic. Tears filled my eyes as Randy proclaimed that even demons believe. He quoted scripture flawlessly and made sure we understood that belief will get you to the cross but faith has to take you beyond it. This is a man who lives faith.

I first walked up carrying my bag of sandwiches with my Jesus flyer...thinking I was going to spread the Word...I left knowing without a doubt that I had just had a divine appointment with God. I wonder if John the Baptist looked kinda like Randy. I wonder if John the Baptist came to town today...would the church medicate him and diagnose him as bipolar?

I don't have time to go into detail about the next guy at the intersection of Breaker Lane. His name is James...he has a dog name Samara who wears sun glasses...a cool top hat...and shirt and vest. Both, James and the dog were very hungry. We were thanked and told "God Bless You." They had finished the sandwiches before Rick and I got back to the truck. You know...not many folks tell me "God Bless You" throughout my day...but James did.

The last stop before getting back to work was a campsite near Wells Branch Parkway ... the folks were not there at the time...the site was filthy...blankets on the ground trying to dry out from the rain this morning. Rick left the remaining sandwiches with a Biker for Christ flyer for when they returned. It blesses me to imagine them finding the next meal.

God has made it very clear to me...that it is none of my business why these people are hungry. I am to feed them. The funny part so far is that they are feeding me. Like I said, I will never be the same and I thank God for it.

--Vicki
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You never have any ideas who you are going to meet. ALL people should be approached with a very open mind. We should learn that all judging should be avoided. Randy was a Gulf War Vet. He was very knowledgeable and articulate. He was very much in tune with the world. He was living free. Free from everything, counting on God to supply everything he might need in his life. His knowledge of the Bible was incredible as well as his interpretation.. He gets in at the very root. The barbarian way.

James seemed like a very gentle soul. He seemed smart and was articulate. He was searching for "Good people" to be around. He was on a journey back to St. Augustine FL where he said the people were nice and the living was easy. He loved his dog! As the case with every homeless person I have ever helped he said "God bless you" it is always awesome to know they know Him..

Both these men had far ranging limits. One goes back and forth between Austin and Dallas. The other was on his way back to Florida. They think nothing of going across the country with only what they can carry. Reminds me of someone else that walked everywhere with only what they could carry.

--Rick