7-3-13

Greetings and Happy Sabbath Day!

Rest and Sabbath Day for most, that is. As I type this update I am in a dorm room at Bethel University. Why, you ask? I have volunteered to lead a small group at the Cumberland Presbyterian Youth Conference. I am currently skipping worship to catch up on email, update our home page, and chill out. I am still the rebellious camper that skips worship for a nap and or/break. I haven’t changed a bit.

Anyhoo, I hope this update finds you all enjoying some nice weekend weather. Last week we, once again, broke another burrito distribution record. 310 burritos, 8 cases of bottled water, two cases of sodas, and 40 snack packages were distributed to the streets of Memphis via bicycle. 16 loyal, bike pedaling, disciples participated in this gracious event. If you have yet to experience a Wednesday night UBFM meeting it may be time to see this happen for yourself. It is an amazing affair. Not only does food and supplies go out to the streets but love and kindness is poured out on these evening ventures. What makes it more significant is we don’t care how they got there, what addictions or illnesses they might be distressed with, what they look like or even how they treat us. We see our brother and sister; we see human beings like us. I truly believe that is the heart of this ministry; to treat our neighbors as we would treat ourselves, treat them with love. We find words like love and justice laced throughout the foundations of the Gospels. I like to think we put those words in action.

I could sit here and tell a story about all those who participated in making last Wednesday happen but my message would become too long. So many compassionate people are involved in making burritos, riding and distributing, and/or praying for or promoting our cause. Thank all and God bless you.

I want to carry on with distributing more burritos. The premade ones that some of you have been creating at your houses are marvelous. Having those makes our night run much smoother and we are able to start a little early. With that being said, if some of you are interested in being involved but are unable to ride, feel free to make some burritos. We use refried beans, rice, cheddar cheese, and roll it on a large tortilla with foil. Last week a group from New Tribe Memphis made 50 burritos with chicken; it went over well! So, don’t be afraid to be creative. We will inevitably distribute them all.

This week (July 3), since I am at this conference, I will not be there. Rosa Padilla and Frank Rouse will be taking care of everything. Though, I know they can handle the event, they might need some extra help. If you don’t have any plans on Wednesday night and want to have a good, little bike ride we would love the extra wheels.

The routine will be as usual: Meet at 124 Roberta, 38112 at 7:30 PM, load up and head out around 8:00 PM, and try to be back for fellowship at 10:00 PM. I regret that I will miss everyone this week but I look forward to seeing you on the next.

Hope you all have a great week!

Peace