Life on life: a work in progress - from Brent Anderson, South Philly
Some time ago, Patrick (not his real name) asked me to be his spiritual mentor. On Wednesday evening, I received a text message from him asking if I was busy. I had just finished up a meeting in church so I called him and discovered that he was in trouble and needed help. "Where are you?" I asked. He was at a local bar here in Philadelphia so I got the address and told Patrick I would join him shortly. The bar was the last place I thought I would find my friend - he was doing so well in his recovery. "What"s going on?" I thought. I was concerned so I called my wife and another friend and asked for prayer.
Upon meeting Patrick, I discovered that his situation with his wife had hit rock bottom. I could see through his eyes that he was in great pain amidst the alcohol consumption. I listened. We eventually left the bar, got a sandwich and headed to a local park I frequently visit for some time with the Lord. We talked and prayed. Though the situation remains uncertain for now, I know that God can and will help Patrick through this challenging time. I encouraged my friend, "Stay close to Jesus, believe His Word." Please pray with us for wisdom as Patrick has decisions to make. Ask God to bring healing, deliverance and reconciliation in this relationship.
Living and discipling among the lost - from Mark Matthews, West Chester
Since 2002, I have been meeting once a week to read the Bible with friends and neighbors. It started with one friend and has grown to a diverse group of 7 men. Nothing is off limits for discussion; we all consider this as a safe place. As a group, we are learning the grace of Jesus and simplicity of the Gospel. Each of the guys has personally grown in their knowledge and application of the Bible. Faith is growing but no one is measuring it...that's God's job. We will break for the summer as usual and resume in the fall.
b2g road trip - from John Nellis, Coatesville
Two carloads of Philly 20-somethings (and the staff “oldtimers”) headed south for a rendezvous with several DC Metro b2gers in the Maryland suburbs of DC. We met at a quaint brewery/restaurant for several hours of lively discussion, comparing notes and sharing war stories about the challenges and opportunities of ministry in our metro areas. We then capped off the day at the annual DC Nav banquet, at which Doug Nuenke encouraged us to live and minister out of who we are – broken people. There was much to think and talk about on the late night ride back home!