Some mornings in the park I feel useless. I feel like the same people are there saying the same things and that none of us are making a difference. Many mornings I struggle to get there and wonder what God really has for me that day. I wonder if what we are doing truly matters or if we are just going through the motions.

Today I spent the entire hour having one conversation. I had a trash bag in my hand, intending to pick up trash because I didn’t really feel like making an effort. But God answered the prayer I prayed during the prayer time with our volunteers, and drew me to the place I was to be. The man I talked to has been to Grace’s Kitchen on and off since we started. I know his name, and I know he struggles with schizophrenia. I know he spent a few months in a local residential men’s facility this past year before leaving and taking to the streets again. I know he always wears a hat and has a backpack, and I know the general part of town where he hangs out. But today I spent more time with him and learned a little more.

I learned about his family. I heard stories of him and his brother growing up. I listened to him recount sitting at his mom’s deathbed when she died and the emotion that surrounded that loss. I found out his opinion on the authority of the Bible, and I debated with him on some basic theology. Mostly I just listened while he talked. I looked him in the eye and I listened. I heard him. And I promised to continue to pray.

As I was sitting there with him, two or three other people I usually speak to came over as if to make sure I knew they were there today. They shook my hand, smiled and said “I just wanted to say hello; I know you are talking.” They sought me out.

It matters that we are there in the park every week. It matters because when we keep our promises to others, we point them to the One who always keeps His promises to us.

If I run my life based on feelings I am in big trouble. But if I rely on the Spirit to guide me even when I don’t feel like it, I am blessed. Whatever situation God calls us to, whether it is a homeless ministry or a ministry to our next-door neighbor, God can use us if we are open to letting Him work.

Please continue to remember Grace’s Kitchen and all of the volunteers in your prayers. Pray that we will continue to seek God’s plan for this ministry and walk in obedience to what He has called us to do!