Meet Lawrence

This is Lawrence. Lawrence is part of our church family, and he is an exceptional person. While this isn't really my story to tell, Lawrence gave me permission to share.

During the week leading up to Christmas, Portland endured its worst winter storm (actually a series of storms) in 40 years. Most of us hunkered down in our homes, keeping warm and venturing out as little as possible. Some didn't have a home in which to hide, so the local homeless shelters received as many people as they could.

There were, however, some who were turned away from the shelters. The Union Gospel Mission had room for people, but not for the pets belonging to the poorest of the poor. While they would have been happy to give beds, they had no means of housing animals. Unfortunately, taking their pets to the animal shelter would probably mean losing them forever. Anyone needing shelter who was not willing to abandon his/her pet, had no choice but to remain outside in the coldest weather in 5 years.

That's where Lawrence enters in. While most people weren't aware of the problem or, if they were, just put it out of their minds, Lawrence put love into action. Remembering 3 homeless men who died from exposure during the winter 0f 2007-2008, he contacted PetSmart's national headquarters, made them aware of the problem and asked them to help. PetSmart very graciously donated 8 pet crates, food and pet accessories (collars, pet toys, etc.). On Tuesday (December 23rd) Lawrence enlisted some help to pick up the crates and supplies and deliver them to Union Gospel Mission.

As of early evening, the mission had already received three homeless men and their dogs. If it hadn't been for Lawrence's intervention and PetSmart's generosity, these guys would have slept outdoors in the freezing temperatures. If you haven't yet figured out the magnitude of Lawrence's choice to make a difference, you need to know that a Eugene, Oregon homeless man died that same evening, from exposure to the elements.

He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker. (Proverbs 17:5) The church cannot rest while the poor are freezing to death. The church has to do something, and this week Lawrence reminded me that I'm the church.

What are you going to do about it?

We Christmas Eved

We had a low turnout for our Candles, Carols and Christ service tonight, but I'm glad we went ahead with it. The roads were rutted with ice and slush, and the side streets were still snow covered. But those present really appreciated it. We even had guests! A mother and her approximately 9-year old daughter, who normally attend another church, came to our Christmas Eve service because their's was cancelled. I'm glad we were there for them.

To Christmas Eve or Not to Christmas Eve

Hey, guys, we have a winter weather advisory until 10 p.m., and a winter storm warning until 9 p.m. From what I understand we're supposed to get 1-2 more inches of snow today, before giving way to rain.

I'm trying to decide if the weather warrants cancelling our Christmas Eve Candles, Carols and Christ service. It's supposed to stay above freezing long enough for people to get home, but even rain on top of all this snow and ice can be treacherous.

I take this call very seriously. I'm raring to go (or is it rearing to go - someone has to tell me the derivation of that phrase), but I don't want anyone getting hurt trying to get there, or while they're driving home. I hope things are clear cut enough that I can make the call by noon.

I'm planning to take communion to some of our seniors this afternoon. I really enjoy doing that. Here's hoping the weather cooperates!

Christmas at Aloha Christian Pre-School

Last night was the first of four Christmas programs for our Aloha Christian Pre-School. It was a blast. First off, we were delayed in starting because a couple of our kids (Read: parents) were running late. Then, just as we were ready to start, a little girl had a nose bleed, which needed some first-aid. Then it was time!

I've never seen so many cameras and camera-phones in use at one time before! And the kids were so precious. When you think about it, you can't really lose at something like this. Either the kids do great, and everyone is thrilled with how great they did. Or, they don't do so great, but they look so cute no one cares!

After the program, Santa made an appearance, allowing the children to present their requests. It was a fun night. One down; three to go.