Last Friday I had the opportunity to serve at the Union Gospel Mission (UGM) with some friends. Since 1962 the Union Gospel Mission has provided food, clothing, shelter and a life-changing Gospel message to the homeless of Sacramento. 
I went there to challenge myself as a Christian to confront my fear of outreaching to those who are outcasts who have gone down the road of broken dreams and that have seen a side of life that I'm not sure I could relate too. How could I encourage those without the experience of getting drunk, beaten, abused, imprisoned, and stabbed? All I could do is worship the Lord the best I can and listen to their stories, Bring a sense of comfort, pray for there needs, and try and understand what they're going through. For me it was an encouragement to talk with those who choose to commit themselves to the 9 month program despite their addictions and the calling of the outside world.
The 9 month program starts with a 30 day probation where you can not leave the compound or have contact with the outside. You start your days by getting up early 5:30 am to help cook breakfast, wash dishes, and do laundry. You attend 2 bible studies a day and run the day to day operations of UGM. If you're lucky you learn a trade, you get clean and sober, you learn about GOD and build a strong spiritual foundation so that when you go back out into the world and leave the mission you can live a clean life.
Thank You Pete and Vivian for organizing this opportunity to serve along side you.Thank You Julia for making this moment memorable and taking the time to serve with me.
1 comment:
Hey Darren,
It was great having you and Julia there. It really felt like a special night as a positive "buzz" was flowing through the building. I'm inspired by your willingness to put yourself in uncomfortable situations and conquer them in the name of Christ.
Keep the faith!
Pete
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