Pre-preaching on the bus

While meditating on my passage for this Sunday, I met Mike reading his Bible on the bus. He had to work on Wells St. today, but still wanted to be faithfully in the Psalms to start his day off right. I got to pre-preach a one-minute version of my message to him when sharing what God has been doing in my life. Pray that he may find time to attend our church sometime; he said he may just show up when he doesn't have to work.

Standing on Michigan Avenue

Dennis had been telling me about this guy named James who makes a practice of standing out on Michigan Avenue passing out tracts at least five days a week, and today I finally got to meet him. Although wearing a tie and handing out chick tracts doesn't seem too culturally relevant to me, I was amazed at his heart for Jesus. His faithfulness to the ministry God has allowed him to have is absolutely astounding. Praise God for this charismatic brother in Jesus!

Jesus & government

While just trying to start a conversation on my commute to work, I asked Leon what he was doing today. He, then, started to explain how he was going to see an attorney concerning his father's stay in the nursing home. He kept on talking about how the government wants all his dad's money and how he was going to make sure that it doesn't get it all. As the conversation moved to how hard Leon has worked for his money, I asked him if he was a Christian. He said that he is and through talking a little bit more with him he seemed very Biblical in his beliefs concerning Jesus and humanity. Pray that he'll have a passion for Jesus, not just a passion against government taking his money.

Just moved to Chicago

While riding the train back from work, God opened up a door for me to talk with Israel. He kindly allowed moved his papers, so that I could sit next to him. He has just moved from Connecticut to the Chicago a couple months ago and is still in the process of feeling at home here. Eventually, I asked him if he went to church. To my surprise he said that he would like to, but hasn't since moving to Chicago because he doesn't know where to attend. I invited him to River North, and he not only asked me to write down the address, but said he would probably come in the next couple weeks. Praise God!

Is God really good?

Usually, I don't have to talk too much with people at church about whether Jesus is good or not, but today was different. God allowed me to talk with Ron about his struggles to embrace Jesus. He wants to trust God to answer his prayers, but still wants it to be in his way and his timing. Pray that the "Bridge" will allow Ron to connect with a good, local pastor who can invest in him and show him the reality of Jesus.

Yeah, I'm Kenny's friend

When I sat down to Mary as we were eating pizza, she told me she is a Kenny's friend. I was really excited that he invited her and started to ask her questions about what she thought of the movie we had just shown. Her answers seemed fairly optimistic at first, in terms of her being a Christian, but before too long I realized that she had given up on God. Instead of turning to God in the tough times, she has chosen to look inside of her self and blame God. She kept giving the answer that it doesn't really matter what she thinks about God, so I pleaded with her, for her own well-being and satisfaction, that she embrace Jesus. Pray that God will soften Mary's heart.

Brother Paul

At Pizzology last night, I had the opportunity to interact with a guys who called himself "Brother Paul." He claimed to be a pastor at a nearby church, and even though I was a little bit skeptical (because he was coming to our homeless ministry), he surely enjoyed talking about Jesus. Please pray that he will realize that the point of the cross isn't just to help a person turn his or her life around and live a "successful" life by the world's standards. Pray that he will come to the conclusion that we are so helpless that Jesus is the only One we can turn to.

Praise God for a few kids...

Yesterday, our Summer Bible Time team was disappointed that no kids came out, and today the first hour seemed like the same would happen. Right as we had given up in our own efforts, God miraculously blessed us with 8 kids who came at different times during the morning. Hopefully, God will use our short time of interaction with these kids to impact them for eternity.

Jewel-Osco & Jesus

While making a quick stop at Jewel-Osco this morning for some ice, I met DJ - the security guard for the parking lot. He saw the Baptist name on our van and asked if I was the reverend. I explained that I'm not the pastor, but just a Christian. He said he was one too, so we talked for a while, and he seemed quite honest and genuine.

Trying to bring up Jesus...

Lately, I've been taking mostly short bus and train rides, and yesterday God gave me the opportunity to show some love in Jesus' name to Jordan and today to talk to a business man about why I wanted to share Jesus with children. Nothing spectacular, but God can use just the casual interactions of each day.

Just 3

On our first day of Vacation Bible School, we just had 3 kids come and join us. Although it was disappointing that we didn't have many more, we can be thankful to have three unsaved kids coming to the event.God is in full control, and I praying He'll bring more kids today.

So...you're gay

It isn't every day a gay guy visits someone at your apartment, but that's exactly what happened to me today. Ryan and I got talking about life and how he teaches French at a public school, and to my surprise I learned that Ryan had attended Wheaton. We talked for a while about gay-friendly churches and other things like women pastors, but sadly he thinks he's beyond the closed-mindedness of Evangelicals. Pray that God will draw him to Himself.

Medical & Spiritual

Please pray for my roommate Jamie. He is a Christian and goes to Moody Church. I just learned today that he's bipolar and somewhat schizophrenic, but is really open to what God's Word says concerning his condition. He really does what to live a godly, responsible life and not blame all his sin on his condition, but still dealing with the medical implications of being bipolar and schizophrenic.

Haven't talked lately...

While riding home on the train, I got talking to Mike about the party he was going to that night. We talked about how much he was planning to drink, and then I told him that drinking wine isn't a sin, but drunkenness definitely is. He agreed that getting drunk isn't a smart decision, and then told me he considers himself a Christian. Sadly, he said he said he hadn't talked with God lately. I explained the Gospel to him and how it is only logical that one should put God in first place in his or her life. He still wasn't ready for that type of commitment, so pray the Holy Spirit will prepare him.

Even Kids Need Jesus

Today I assisted a suburban church as they canvassed for the upcoming Summer Bible Time at a park near our church. Although we didn't see as many people out on the streets as we had hoped, we were still able to invite many kids and moms and God even gave me a chance to quickly talk with a guy who claimed to hate Jesus and love Satan. His girlfriend said he was lying, and I pray that the Holy Spirit is working deep in his heart.

Patience

Today I had the privilege to work for one of Ryan's parking lots and got a chance to have plenty of interaction with him. It is easy to tell that he's not a Christian even though he works very close to Matt and Erik - 2 Christians in management. God gave me an unusual amount of patience today, so I could show Ryan in some small way that Jesus must impact every part of one's life. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will break through his hardened heart.

Conversation starters...or just life

I didn't find it tough to start a conversation with Leon on the bus ride home since I was carrying a backpack (with my laptop, hymnal, etc), the church's new laptop, and a couple thousand fliers I printed off today. As we starting talking about the Bible club our church is putting on for the children next week, Leon essentially told me that he was a spiritual guy, but not all that religious. He believes in some type of creation and god out there, but not in going to church and calling himself a Christian. Pray that God will show him that being spiritual isn't enough; he needs Jesus!

Interupted

Last night while I was talking with Michelle, the doorbell rang and to my surprise Margaret, a homeless lady, was standing there. She went on to tell Daniel and I her long, long, long story (90% of which I am almost positive is a lie because he isn't our neighbor, but instead lives underneath the Belmont bridge). We helped her out a little bit and tried to explain through our some gifts the ultimate gift God gave us when we were totally unworthy and unlovable. Please pray for he and also the guy, Dan, I met who's living downstairs with his girlfriend for the next couple weeks. Maybe meeting him was part of the reason God put Margaret in my path...

Went to a Catholic high school...

Although we were only able to talk for less than five minutes, I got to know Joel a little bit. He had just finished work and was on his way home to chill until the evening. When he found out that I go to a Bible college, he explained that he went to a Catholic high school. I asked him if he still considers himself religious, and he replied that he doesn't even though he thinks he's fairly spiritual. I wasn't able to go into much more depth before he had to transfer to the Purple Line, but pray that God will use that short conversation for His glory.

Pray for Mike

Mike has come to our church for the past two weeks and seems very interested in continuing to come. He came up to me last week wanting to serve the church in any way he could, so we spent half the day together cleaning the church van today. Since he's from Africa, I have had a tough time understanding some things he says, and I'm not sure of his salvation even though he surely appears to demonstrate many of the fruits of a real relationship with Jesus. Please pray...

I hate religion

On the train, I found a guy my same age who is disgusted with religion. Meshawn grew up Catholic, but hasn't attended church regularly since he left his parents' house. God opened my mouth to share that I hated religion too! How worthless are man's attempts to get to God through doing all these good things! Then, I told him about who I do love - Jesus. Pray that he'll look at Christianity in a new light.

Trash Bags?

"Could you help me find the trash bags?" That was the question that greeted me while browsing for automobile equipment for the church van. Sandy couldn't see well, so she couldn't determine which bags were the right ones. Then, she started complaining about the new sales tax increase here (it's crazy!) and discovered that she was short a little money at the cash register, so I decided to help her out a little and told her that the reason I was doing this was that Jesus had done so much for me - an undeserving sinner. Pray that she will be changed by Jesus' sacrifice on her behalf.

Drunkenness & Spirituality

Feeling a little bit weird seated next to a man with long hair, earrings, necklaces, and a shirt buttoned half-way down; I decided to trust God and just try to start a conversation with this guy. In the end, Chi and I had a fun conversation and laughed a lot. He told me about what he gets drunk from at certain parties. I told him that I was a Christian and that the Bible condemns drunkenness as a sin against God. He was surprised I didn't say wine in and of itself was wrong, and that surprisement allowed me to further explain Jesus and what is really important to Christians. Pray that the Spirit would open His eyes to see Jesus, and then he would hate his sin.

Passing out parking fliers...

God decided to open a door when I least expected it today. While I handing out fliers for our parking garage, I came into contact with a homeless guy, Jim, who was standing at the same street corner. For some reason, we started talking, and eventually I shared that I am a Christian. He wasn't surprised. My prayer is that God is drawing Jim to Himself right now.

People need to hear

Even though I was ultra-sleepy, I tried to start a conversation with Angelina on the bus. God appointed her to be a very friendly woman, and eventually I found out that she at least professes to be a Christian. Before I exited the bus, God gave me the opportunity to challenge her to witness to all the people around her that desperately need to hear about Jesus.

Jehovah Witness

While riding the bus, I literally bumped into a lady and then sat right next to her. After learning that she worked at a rehabilitation center, I thanked her for her willingness to serve and then explained Jesus who is God, but still came down to earth to serve us. She told me that she is a Jehovah Witness, but God ended our conversation at the next bus stop. Pray that God's love will get through to her.

Everyone talking about Jesus

Although Christianity and Jesus are usually on the bottom of the list for most people to talk about at work; Henry, Robinson, Roberto, and I carried on a long conversation about Jesus today. Robinson is a strong Christian; Henry is tough to figure out; Roberto is, by his own admission, unsaved. Jesus opened up a door to explain to Roberto why I don't do all the things most college students do (get drunk, sleep around, smoke, etc.). I pray that he understands that I want to avoid certain things because I'd rather worship Jesus.

Friend Day Blessing

God not only blessed us with a nice musical team from Brookside for the special day, but also gave us around 10 guests. Annie came back from Pizzology. Also, after talking to a couple of the first-time guests, I think they may continue coming to the church and may become integral parts of our church community. Praise Jesus!

Brookside Blessing

What a blessing God furnished me and our entire church with when He sent us a team of 10 from Brookside today to pass out flyers and help out around the church!

Another Joseph update

Remember Joseph in your prayers. I was able to talk more with him about Christianity and invite him to Friend Day on Sunday. Hopefully, God will bring him out for that event!

Willing to talk

Please pray for Sunni. He's a Muslim who owns a couple coffee shops here in Chicago and does tons of nice things, but doesn't believe in the true Jesus. He told Pastor and I about the dream he had of Jesus, and Pastor had the opportunity to challenge Sunni to search out what the Bible says about Jesus. Sunni is very open to discussions - which is a tremendous blessing.

India & IT work

On the train, God led me to another man who came over here from India to work in the IT industry. As can be expected, he claims to be a Hindu. He also said, though, that he hasn't went to a temple lately because it has been hard for him to get there while in America. I presented the Bible to him and just asked him to read it and think about what it says about Jesus. Pray that he'll search out the truth!

Need a job; really need Jesus

While we were joking around on the bus, I found that I connected well with Greg. He is currently looking for a job and showed me a couple of the applications he is currently filling out. I told them I am a Christian and that I will pray that God will provide him with some work to do and ultimately that he'll realize that Jesus has already done all the work to save him. Pray that God will use my feeble words.

Filthy Rags

Audrey and I had a short conversation while waiting for and riding on a bus today. Somehow God swung the conversation to eternity with Audrey saying that she just thinks a person needs to be good and moral to get into heaven. Like I expected, she considers herself a Catholic although not a very devout one. Right before she got off the bus, I gave her something to think about from Isaiah - that all our righteousness is as filthy rags. Please pray that the small mustard seed witness God allowed me to be will be used to bring her to Jesus in His timing.

Back from Korea

Praise God Michelle (from the church here) returned safely from her three week trip to Korea and had numerous opportunities to witness to friends on the study tour.

Never really thought about that

While I was frustrated over an ultra-long bus wait, God placed Eugene right in my path. He was on his way to an early morning shift at McDonald's (the one near Navy Pier). As the conversation progressed, I asked him what he thought about Jesus and surprisingly enough he replied that he hadn't thought deeply about Jesus, religion, and stuff like that. God gave me a couple minutes to share how Jesus has redeemed me and then to direct Eugene to the Bible - God's written self-revelation. Pray that the Holy Spirit will do the "heavy lifting" in Eugene's life.

Eternity Written on Their Hearts

I tried to start a conversation with Juan on the train, but it didn't seem to go too well at the beginning. He appeared more than content to keep to himself, but God gave me a burden to present the Gospel to him. After talking about a shooting here in Chicago, I asked him what he thought would happen when he stepped off this planet. He thought for a while and just shrugged. I directed him to study the Bible for the answer and please pray that he will.

Pray for Henry

God has given me at least two more weeks to work with Henry before I'll probably move to another parking lot. Today, e appeared to open up a little bit to talking about his view of Christianity. Please pray that that transparency will continue.

What if you won $10,000?

Usually, questions like that seem a little bit "old school" to dudes in their 20s today, but God enabled me to talk with two guys while we were waiting for the bus. For some providential reason, the bus was running 15 minutes late, so I waited with these two guys for over 20 minutes before they finally gave up and grabbed a taxi. I was able to impart my desire to them about how I would use the money to tell people about the most important gift ever - Jesus. Please pray that my very insignificant witness would be used by God in a mighty way.

It's about Jesus, not Bush

Wow! I never knew how frustrating it can get trying to convince someone that Jesus is the answer for the issues the world is facing, not politics! I thought most people realized how little politics usually accomplish. Annie and I talked for a long time as I tried to convince her that even above a good president, job market, and fair taxing; America needs to turn to Jesus. Unfortunately, Annie is convinced in her mind that politics is the answer to the world's problems, and she tries to blame Bush for her homelessness. Please pray that she will realize her sin and need for the one and only Savior.

Church...but relationship with Jesus?

I met Georgina on the bus today while she was on her way to do some shopping and get away from her hectic home. When I mentioned my involvement in River North Baptist Church, she started to make excuses as to the reason she missed church this morning. She said she usually goes to a Catholic church, so I explained that going to church does nothing for you unless you have a genuine relationship with the Jesus that the church is praising. Pray that her relationship with Jesus will grow or become a reality in her life.

Visiting the City?

I met Mee on the train today while he was trying to take a photo of a few of his friends across the aisle from him. Although we didn't have long to talk, he told me that he is visiting Chicago for a couple weeks from California. He works in the IT field - which isn't surprising at all when one knows that he was born in India. He grew up as a Hindu and still embraces it even though he seemed a little bit more open to Christianity since he lives in the US and not his homeland anymore. Pray that the Holy Spirit will break down the barriers in his life.

Hard work, but of no eternal value

After the fireworks celebrating the 4th of July, I took the train home and met up with Angel. He was dressed in a white shirt and black pants, so I figured he had just got off work. Not only did he just get done working at a restaurant, but he also works at another restaurant so he can put in 60-70 hours per week. I challenged him to make sure he is chasing the right thing - which needs to be Jesus - before he just keeps chasing hard after the wrong things. Pray that God will show him the emptiness of his life.

Oh, you want to talk...

While I was sweating in the subway station, Shantel came up to me and started talking. She weirded me out a little bit at first, but I progressively realized that she just has an outgoing personality. After discussing Chicago, the weather, our jobs, and schooling, I asked her if she had read the Bible. She has read it, but I found it extremely difficult to discern whether she solely believes the Bible provides good, moral stories to pattern one's life after or if she believes it is actually God's revelation of Himself to her. Pray that she'll think about the Gospel which God privileged me to present to her.

Spare change

While waiting for the brown line, I decided to move some of the change a customer had given me as a tip. Right then, a woman next to me asked me if I would buy her a bottle of soda. On the spot, I said, "Sure!" and went looking for a vending machine. When I returned, the lady asked me if I am a Christian; obviously, I replied that I definitely am. God allowed us to talk for a few minutes about how Jesus had brought this lady to Himself and what she was doing here in the city. She wanted to know where River North Baptist Church is, so I'm praying God will allow us to minister to her some more.

Bible Survey Test

Think Bible survey tests are these long multiple-choice final exams for college? Think again. Adron, one of my co-workers, randomly started asking me questions about the Bible: everything from the longest verse to the writer of Lamentations to the only verse with two blessings. Praise God for Bible survey classes at college! I found out that Adron is a Christian who serves as a deacon at a church in the area. How amazing is our God!

Cubs may lose, but Jesus won't

I was wondering how to engage a guy like the one who was sitting next to me on the train. Thankfully, God brought the idea of the Cubs and Sox to my mind. God worked it out that Ryan is a Cubs fan - allowing me to easily relate to him. Raised as a Catholic, he still seemed to embrace the faith. I explained to him the difference, though, between being a religious person and a Christian and how God has showed me that my own good deeds are like filthy rags. He appeared to understand and to be thinking deeply about what I said. Pray for him!

Coming together

God blessed our church with a wonderful time today to get together with Parkwood Baptist Church for a picnic and softball game. The time was not only unifying for our body, but also encouraging as we saw people who Jesus is in the process of changing and working through too...we are not the only Christians in this city and there are many thousands more than we know right now! Praise God!

God can use the smallest things

Dennis and I decided to go to a street corner to pass out Bible bookmarks that he had specially designed for that area. Although he was terrified about what people may think or the questions they could ask and I wasn't totally convinced in my mind that passing out bookmarks is all that hip and cool, God allowed us to overcome our fear of man by loving Him more. My hope is that God will use those small things in ways beyond my comprehension.

Busy, busy, busy

How easy it is to just be busy, but with the wrong things! Riding the bus, Carlos was on his way to work the evening shift at an upscale restaurant. He loves the city and when he isn't working he's enjoying all the festivals, events, parades, and celebrations. When we got to his spiritual life, he said that he didn't have time to think about that aspect of his life too much...how sad! God opened the door for me to explain the importance of studying Jesus in the Bible before life is over. Pray that he'll look to the only One who can save him - from the wrath he doesn't even know is against him and a meaningless existence here on earth.

More than a Bible...

George walked onto the bus carrying a fairly large Bible which looked like it had been read and studied extensively. Using his Bible as a way to start I conversation, I asked him if he was a Christian. To my surprised, he flat out said, "No." He said a Christian is a person who is like Christ, and I explained that a Christian desires to live like Jesus, but still messed up numerous times through the sanctification process. Then, he revealed that he also believes in Islam. Please ask God to show George that he can't serve two different masters.

A very kind Hindu

Bringing all his luggage with him, Labin took the same route back to his apartment as I took to work. He was even more friendly than many church members I've met when visiting different churches! We talked about many topics related to the city, one of them being its affections for certain religions and its spirituality. Pray that I was able to show him Jesus' love and that I actually cared for him as a person created in God's image, so that one day he will worship the one and only God - Jesus.

Jesus Tattoo...YEAH!

While riding the train to work, I noticed a man across from me with a tattoo that looked to be the face of Jesus with His crown of thowns. I asked Alandra why he had that tattoo, and he responded that he liked Jesus. Sadly, Alandra also said that he doesn't go to church even though he claims to have his own thing going on with Jesus. I questioned him a little further and found out that he does believe Jesus is the only way to salvation - what an encouraging response! Pray that God will give Alandra a desire to connect with other Christians by becoming part of a church here in Chicago.

Christian, but never read the Bible...really?

I met Robin on his way to O'hare to work the afternoon and evening shift at a ticket center. He professes to be a Christian and more specifically a Catholic, but also told me that he has never read the Bible, not even small bits and pieces of it. I explained the importance of reading God's revelation to us to him and what the Bible has done in my life. Then came my stop, and the Holy Spirit will have to do the work.

What obvious things we can miss!

Sharon and I got talking about how stupid we can be at times and miss the most obvious things. I shared my story about getting locked in a Porche and being unable to find the door hand or ignition. Then, I told her about how ignorant we, as humans, are to not see God. Pray that God will take that small seed and cause it to grow.

Joseph Update

Wonderfully, God opened up a door for me to talk with Joseph today while the parking lot wasn't too busy. Joseph shared how he grew up as a Methodist in the Philippines and how he knows most of the Bible stories. Sadly, I sense that he may be a religious dude, but not a Christian. Pray that he will think about the importance of a relationship with Jesus.

Yep, yep, yep

While commuting to work today, I sat next to and talked with Miguel. He considers himself a devout Catholic. I tried to pry into exactly what he believes, but the only answer I could get from him was, "Yep." I shared the Gospel message with him, and he said he believed it. Pray that his confession is true.

NO, NO, NO other way to salvation

Right after I finished preaching from Acts 4 concerning Jesus as the only way to salvation and making a huge deal that a person can't get salvation any other way except through Jesus, Paulina came up to me and told me that she thought there are other ways. In as kind a manner as I know how, I reiterated that the Bible is 100% clear that there is only one way to salvation and His name is Jesus. Later, Tamra and Grace were able to minister to Paulina's physical needs by helping her fill out two employment applications. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will do the work in Paulina heart!

Coming to church? MayBo

While manning the door in front of the church, I met Bo as he walked by right before our 10am Sunday School was about to start. He was surprised to find a Baptist church in the area and said he'll come back in the next couple weeks. Please pray that he will!

He looks tough...scary

On my way home, I sat next to Dre, a guy at least twice my size with the appearance of a tough, tough guy. At first, I was going to sit in peace and just wait until my stop, but God laid a burden on me to share the Gospel with Dre. We started talking about the big Cubs/Sox series this weekend, and we ended by talking about Jesus, the Bible, and Christianity. He thinks he has his own thing going on with Jesus, but he isn't too interested in going to church or reading the Bible. I encouraged him to read the Bible to find out what it actually says about Jesus - the real Jesus, that is, not the one of Dre's own creation. Pray that the real Dude will draw this dude to Himself.

Another Christian at work...maybe?

Joseph is an extremely nice and moral guy to work with at the parking lot. Until today, I hadn't talked much with him about spiritual things even though we had discussed many big issues. In the course of our conversation, he asked me whether Jews who believe in Judaism can go to heaven, and I replied, "No." He really seems to understand Christianity, but I haven't yet figured out if he's just knowledgeable about what Christians believe or if he actually is one. Pray that we'll be able to have more God-brought discussions.

Messed Up!!!

On my way to Navy Pier to discuss Psalm 2 with Charles, I sat next to a guy in a McDonald's uniform on the bus. Immediately, we started talking about our jobs and this great city. When I brought up Jesus, Brendon asked me why I wanted to talk with him. God led me to just be straight up with Brendon and tell him that I wanted to introduce him to the greatest person and gift of all - Jesus. Brendon surely didn't mind talking, but he explained all his weird, pagan beliefs about how Jesus never existed, the Bible came from these old tales, etc. Pray that Brendon will see the error of his thinking and come wholeheartedly to Jesus.

Life: Just Working?

Though we only met for a couple minutes, Bethany and I were able to talk about the meaning in life. Sadly, all that seemed to occupy her life was work. She hadn't ever thought seriously about anything religious and even hadn't read bits and pieces of the Bible (most non-Christians still have). God privileged me to go through a quick synopsis of the Gospel message with her, and then I was off the bus. Pray that God will work despite the brevity of the time I was able to talk with Bethany.

Someday I'll get around to Jesus...

After spending part of the day in the downtown area looking for a job, Tim made his way home on the Blue Line - where I met up with him. He is just a normal guy who has lived in the city all his life, went to Wisconsin for a vacation, and cheers for the Cubs. When I told him that I go to Bible college, he said that one of his sons graduated from Moody. What a lead into a spiritual discussion! The problem for Tim is that he doesn't have the commitment to Jesus that his sons have. He thinks he can have his thing going on with God, but just not be doing anything about it right now. He said one day he'll get serious about God again, so I encouraged him to make that day today. Pray that Tim will realize that he can't hide from God even when he's away from his sons.

Praise & Prayer

On the 6:30am bus today, I met someone I never expected to even be awake that early. Brian, the man Pastor and I visited a couple weeks ago, was riding back from O'Hare because God has blessed him with a much-needed job there. He talks very openly with me and please pray that I could get into more of his life to either help him see his need of a real relationship with Jesus or help him grow in the relationship he may already have.

Rough Neighborhood

I met Ryan while waiting for a bus ride back from church. I looked like a freak - carrying a whole bunch of books, a laptop, and some other tech stuff. For some odd reason, he started up a conversation with me while I was trying to decide on the songs for next Sunday. Ryan lives in one of the worst low-income housing projects in the city - just a couple blocks from our church. He hates the area and tries to stay away from all the dangerous people living around him. I told him that not only do I not smoke pot, but that I'm also a Christian. Then, I explained that what the city as a whole and he as an individual really need - Jesus. Jesus is the only one who can transform both Chicago and Ryan!

On the way to church...

While waiting for the train today, I started talking with Josephina; she told me that she was on her way to Moody Church - a doctrinally-sound church here in River North. We had a great conversation about how she met Jesus and what God has been doing in both of our lives. What a refreshment!

Creating Community

Jesus blessed our church with a wonderful time of fellowship at a cookout at Erik and Erika Eloe's house. Despite the difficulties of location, logistics, and travel; we were able to work on building community among our group. In a city where most people feel lonely and isolated, the church should be a place where people can build relationships and grow together in Jesus. All the glory to Jesus!

Jesus draws Catholic to Himself

Considering the numerous deceived Catholics I've met in the last month, Kimberly encouraged me that Jesus not only can, but is changing lives. Kimberly grew up Catholic, but religion was just a Sunday thing for her, not something that impacted her everyday life. Just a couple years ago, someone who works with her at Bloomingdale's invited her to come to Harvest Bible Chapel - where she met Jesus! Now, she loves the preaching because it applies the Bible to real life, and she enjoys serving in various different outreach ministries with the church. All the glory to Jesus!

Southside schools...yikes!

Kim came onto the train this morning carrying her iced coffee, of which she is an avid drinker. She was excited since the last day of school had finally come. As I learned more about the southside school where she teaches, my heart became burdened for the kids and teens there. Nobody at home gives them attention. Nobody invests in their lives just out of love. Nobody seems to care about them. They so desperately need Christians who are willing to get into their lives, show Jesus' love to them, and tell them about the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. Also, pray for Kim; she loves students, but isn't too big on anythings considered religious or spiritual.

Communication Difficulties

I met Jorge on the bus today, and he seemed like a friendly, personable guy. The tough part of our conversation was that I had couldn't understand much of what he was saying because of his accent and broken English. God did allow me to make out the gist of where he is at spiritually in that he has never really thought deeply about eternal things. Since I couldn't understand everything he was saying, I just presented the Gospel and left it at that. Pray that the Spirit will give Jorge a thirst for Jesus!

Rough day for Demano

Today, I was called over to cover a couple hours of Demano's shift while he went to the hospital for a heart-related issue. As if that health issue wasn't frustrating enough, when he was released from the hospital, his car wouldn't start. Demano found a man who would try to jump start his car, but that didn't work either, so the man helped push his car to an area out of the way. Right as Demano was going to reach into his wallet, the man said that he didn't want any money. Demano asked the man if the man was a Christian, and he replied that he was! What a blessing to have another Christian living out Jesus' love right in front of Demano!

Hip and cool...but where's Jesus?

Shawn seemed like a really cool dude, but to my surprise he wanted to talk, even about spiritual matters. He just moved to Chicago and is looking for a job right now. He graduated with a sports medicine degree and obviously wants to use it. He was raised Catholic, but no longer faithful goes to Mass now that he is on his own. I explained to him his problem and why he desperately needs Jesus. Pray that he won't be too cool to receive Jesus!

Many ethnic backgrounds; still one Jesus

As I glanced at the lady sitting next to me on the train, I realized she was reading a Spanish magazine. Wondering if she even spoke English, I asked her about what she was reading. Carmen turned out to be a nice woman who immigrated to the United States from the Dominican Republic. She grew up with a mixture of Pentecostal and Catholic influence, but she isn't extremely committed to Christianity or religion in general. I brought her to what the Bible says about Jesus and salvation, and then she had to leave. Pray that her life will be radically transformed by Jesus!

Religion and Jesus

Carrying two old chairs on the bus, Matt looked like quite an interesting guy. He is currently working on a graduate degree, and he told me that he received a comparative religions undergraduate degree. He knows plenty about the Old and New Testaments and has even done some of his own archeology. The sad part is that his knowledge hasn't done anything for him. He believes that Jesus is an inspiring figure, but not the one and only God. Through his extensive knowledge of world religions, he tries to find truths in every belief system and develop his own eclectic form of spirituality. Pray that he will meet the living Jesus!

A Buddhist and a Christian

Within about half an hour, I met two people with almost the opposite beliefs. First, Jakamano is a Buddhist who moved to the States a year ago. He doesn't go to the temple as often while in America, but still considers himself a devout Buddhist. He had to leave right as I was starting to explain Christianity, but God is in full control of the timing. On the other hand, I met a Korean college student named Catherine. She loves Jesus and believes that He is the only way to God. She witnesses a little bit through a Christian fellowship on campus, but I encouraged her to ask God for greater boldness in sharing the good news of Jesus.

Jesus the Messiah

While waiting for the Red Line train to come, I had an opportunity to talk with Carol. Being a retired teacher and avid sports fan, she was on her way to the Sox game this afternoon. Somewhere throughout our conversation I told her I am a Christian, and she responded that she is a Jew. She claims to go to the synagogue once in a while, but by her own admission isn't strong in Judaism. I explained to her that I, as a Christian, believe that Jesus is the Messiah who fulfilled all the Old Testament messianic prophesies. She said that she would be tough to convert, but God can change even a heart of stone!

God can bring them in

After receiving fliers on Saturday, Paulina and Dennis came to Sunday School and the morning service today. Paulina is looking for a job and is living meal-to-meal right now. She doesn't seem to have a relationship with Jesus, but she is very interested in coming back especially to our fellowship meals and homeless ministry. Dennis is retired and living just a couple blocks from church. He showed a lot of interest in our evangelism program because he truly desires to be a bold witness for Jesus. Also, praise God that Michelle came to our Sunday services for the first time and Hector's brother Alehandra (sp?), who isn't a Christian, came too!

Passing out church fliers

Praise God for the team from Village Baptist Church that helped pass out fliers for over 3 hours today! We were able to contact many interested people and hopefully a few of them will come to church in then next month, years, or maybe even years...and then come to Jesus - our ultimate goal and joy!

YOU NEED JESUS!!!

While riding the bus today, God especially burdened my heart to talk to this guy in his twenties right next to me. I found out that Juan was on his way to work because he gets Sunday and Wednesday off each week. He said he goes to church once in a while and considers himself to be somewhat spiritual. I explained my relationship to Jesus with him and then asked him if he had that kind of a relationship. He said, "No." Then, the Holy Spirit led me to be frank with Juan and encourage him by telling him how much he is missing without Jesus - the greatest gift for him and the entire city!

Update on Demano

Demano went to the hospital for his eye procedure today and came back to work a little bit later than he expected. When he returned, I continued my shift for another half-hour and was able to talk with him about Jesus. He has went to a variety of churches and has come to the conclusion that all he needs to do is be a good person. I was able to explain some of the Gospel to him, and please pray that I will be assigned to his parking lot again to continue our conversation.

Grumpy Servant?

When I sat down on the train, I thought I had sat next to the wrong person. Amy looked upset at life and a horrible candidate with which to try to start up a conversation. I had the guts, though, to try to talk with her. She was mad at the subway, mad at work, and probably more things than just those. She works for the city in the environmental and waste department even though she really doesn't like the city. She told me she has come into contact with many churches through her job and that she is convinced that she doesn't need to go to one. She is persuaded that serving the city in her role makes her a good enough person. Please pray that she will realize her own goodness is like filthy rags and that she needs Jesus' righteousness.

Many interpretations...sure!

On the train home from downtown, I got talking with a stage manager named John. He has been a Catholic ever since he was young, and he claims to be very faithful in attending Mass. I started to explain who Jesus is and how He is the only way to salvation. John just said that everyone has his or her own interpretation and that he was glad I had mine. I told him that certain truths which the Bible is explicit concerning aren't up for anyone's interpretation. Right as I was getting deeper into the Gospel, John had to get off the train, but pray that our small conversation will have a lasting impact in his life.

Talkin' about prophesy

God opened a door to talk about Him even when I had no clue it was coming. I was sent over to learn from Demano before I cover part of his shift tomorrow while he has an eye appointment. While explaining the responsibilities at the garage, he showed me a magazine about prophesy he had been reading. We talked for a little bit about it and pray that he has/will have a relationship with the God and object of prophesy, Jesus, and that he doesn't just enjoy the fantasy and mystery of prophesy without that wonderful relationship.

Quieres voy a ir a Mexico?

After talking with my supervisor, I found out that I'm going to spend the next 3 weeks at a garage filling in while Roberto is on vacation. While Roberto was showing me around today, I was able to get to talk with him about spiritual things. When Roberto found out that I go to a Bible college and that I attend church every Sunday, he thought that I was doing that right thing because I would stay out of trouble. I explained to him that just going to church doesn't make a person good. Besides, some of the worst sinners in the world go to church! Just as I started to tell him about why I want to do good things, my the garage manager Robinson piped in and supported what I was saying. Praise God for another Christian at the parking lot! Pray that while in Mexico Roberto will think about what I said about Jesus while and then I'll be able to talk more with him when he returns.

Something to think about...

Freddie was on the Blue Line train today on his way to the UIC. He came over from Guatemala 20 years ago, and has been working for many different types of employers before deciding to attend medical school. He said that he hasn't thought much about eternity or spiritual things and that he has only read bits and pieces of the Bible. Pray that God through my words would cause Freddie to study out what the Gospel is, and that he would be drawn to Jesus.

Go to church & still need Jesus

What providence! God allowed me to get on the same bus as Mark today. The odds are certainly against something like this happening, but we serve the God of the impossible! Mark has just started coming to River North Baptist Church these last two Sundays. He has left church early both weeks, but this past Sunday I was able to connect with him a little bit and start to get into his life. He dislikes the living conditions at the YMCA, and as a church, we are praying he will find a full-time job. Even more than a job though, he needs to meet Jesus. Please pray!

Think about eternity

On my first time going to a parking lot near Michigan Avenue, I met Pedro on the 66 bus. Being on his way to work as a chef, he was very personable. Sadly, his life is overwhelmed with work and busyness, but he doesn't know the direction he's going in. He admitted that he hasn't thought about eternity much and doesn't have time to go to church. I explained that Jesus is the only reason I have to live each day. He told me he has only read a little bit of the Bible, so I encouraged him to read the whole story. Pray that God will make him contemplate Himself and eternity.

Why the church?

Dan, a carpenter, was riding the the train to see his children and grandchildren today. He professes to be a Christian and has been "church hopping" for most of his life. When he lived in the suburbs, he went to Willow Creek and loved the church. Now, he goes to a nondenominational church on the north side. He seems to love that within a church body there is community - a God-given blessing, but definitely not something to elevate above the Gospel. Pray that he will get involved in serving God, not just being served by different churches.

God knows...

At our Sunday night Pizzology ministry, God privileged me by giving me the opportunity to talk with Judge while we were eating pizza after the video and Gospel presentation. I noticed that he stayed awake throughout the entire video (quite a feat contrasted to the concentration of most of the guys). He wanted to talk and was fairly open with me about some of the struggles of being a homeless man in Chicago. Judge said all the right "Christianese" words, but I don't know for certain if he has that saving relationship with Jesus. Isn't it wonderful that God, not us will determine who truly is a Christian and who is just faking it?

Real or Fake?

Today, Donald attended our morning church services. I didn't recognize him, but he seemed to fit in like he had been to River North Baptist Church before (even though he hadn't). After the prayer time, he stayed around, and we were able to get to know each other. Donald is homeless right now, and he told me of a couple of the things that have happened to him which have scarred his life. I offered to take him out for lunch, so we went to Quizno's and ate humongous subs. He talked all the right talk and appeared to be genuine, but it is so tough to know for sure. Pray that he will see that God loves to show mercy!

Is Jesus the only way?

I met Steven on the gorgeous Millennium Park bridge. He has a religious background, but seems to be in the period of time where he's deciding whether to hold it as his own. Although he professed to be a Christian and knew most of the right doctrine, he also said that Jesus wasn't the only way and that people can get to God through other religions, beliefs, and perspectives. Pray that the Holy Spirit would change his thinking about Jesus and make a relationship with that Jesus a reality if He hasn't yet done it already.

Reform or Regeneration?

I talked to Brenda while she was waiting in Millennium Park for her favorite Gospel music group to take the stage later during the day. She seemed like she wanted to change and be a moral person, but it was tough to tell if she actually had a relationship with the living Jesus. God allowed me to go through His entire plan for salvation with her, and Daniel challenged her to go home and think about the things she had heard. Pray that she will meditate on the cross and the right response she needs to have to it.

Messed Up

Daniel (one of my roommates) and I went out witnessing at the Gospel Music Festival on Saturday, and the first guy we met was Tony. He was open to talking and was very honest with us. Sadly, his views on Jesus, the Bible, and salvation are totally messed up. He thinks he is Jesus! I was able to give him my testimony and tell him what Christians truly believe - that the Jesus of the Bible is the only way to God. He admitted he has had some mental issues lately, so pray that God will allow him to think clearly and reasonably. Also, pray that his sinful lifestyle will show him that life isn't worth living for himself and that he desperately needs Jesus.

Jesus = the cure for sin

Today, I met two friendly visitors - Janet and Margaret. They were traveling to Rosemont for a breast cancer walk on Saturday. Margaret was very open to talking and letting me into her life. She shared about her struggles when her mom died of breast cancer. Margaret said that her mom believed in some higher power, but didn't know much more than that. God allowed me to take the opportunity to share my testimony and to encourage her to read through her mom's Bible to find the only way to salvation. Pray that she will and that Jesus will draw her to Himself.

Another Catholic...wow!

Chicago seems to be overrun with professing Catholics. I met Billy on my way home today. Since I was coming home much earlier than expected, I'm sure that it was a God-thing that I got to talk to him. He had a cap and gown in his lap and is ready for graduation from medical school this weekend. He originally is from the Philippines, but has made Chicago his home. He professes Catholicism, but believes that all religions believe in the same God. I kindly confronted him about that belief and probed more to see what he thought of salvation. Again, he said he believes in a form of works salvation, which I confronted too. Please pray he will meet Jesus despite his false preconceptions.

Going to the Y? Really?

What are the chances? Oh wait, we serve an all-powerful God! God placed Elizabeth on the same train as I was on on my way to visit William at the YMCA. As we began to talk, I found out that just the other day she moved into the Y. We talked for a long time as we transferred to the 66 bus and walked to the building. She has many struggles in life: her husband died a couple years ago, she doesn't have a job, she doesn't have any money. I was able to share my testimony with her and invite her to come to River North Baptist Church, which is just 2 blocks away from the YMCA. Pray that she will come to church sometime, but even more importantly look to Jesus.

God to Elijah: "You are not alone"

The train was packed on the way to work this morning, and I had kept fairly quiet for most of the trip. Just two stations before Monroe, the train stopped because of an equipment failure. I clearly saw that this wasn't just an accident, so I looked for what God was doing instead of complaining about being in a hurry. I started to talk with Janet who was on her way back home after an early morning shift. She recounted to me how Jesus saved her just two years ago. She goes to Salem Baptist Church in the southern side of the city. We enjoyed the rest of 10-minute delay by encouraging each other to be witnessing to lost family, friends, and acquaintances. Praise Jesus for a sister-in-Christ!

Religion: complicated; Jesus: simple

Today God blessed me to talk with Farriel on the train to the Loop. From her first word, I knew she was from England with her distinctive accent. She has spent the last year here in America in many of the major cities working with a travel agency. She claimed to be a Christian since very young, but seemed to know very little about Jesus - which troubled me. I asked her to explain the types of churches and Christians she has been exposed to, and she said a little bit about Catholics and Protestants in England. Then, God prompted me to ask her about the Bible, and she confided in me that she has never really read it (oh sure, a few stories here and there). I was able to share my entire testimony with her and emphasize the importance of what God says in His Word. Pray that God will use His Word, not mine to change her life.

A plethora of cultures

Today, I met Hobitu (sp?) as a friendly international on the train. I lives in LA, but was stopping for a meeting in Chicago for the computer science company he works for. Then, when I mentioned why I am in the city, I found out that he is a Hindu. When pressed to go into detail about his beliefs, he couldn't. All he seemed to understand in Hinduism is that the spiritual is valued over the physical, and a person's goal is to eventually become entirely spiritual. He questioned me on the what the differences are between Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. God allowed me to help him see the differences while focusing on the main issue of who Jesus is. A good prophet or God? I encouraged him to at least read the Bible, and when asked why, I through God's power was able to explain why the Bible is such a unique book contrasted to all other religions' holy books. Pray that he'll read it!

More Christians...quite a blessing!

God honored me with the opportunity to meet Bonnie on her way to the airport on Monday. She was on her way back to Houston, but had plenty of time to talk in the train. I quickly learned she was a Methodist, and after a little bit more conversation I became fairly convinced that she is a true Christian. We had a good time of encouraging each other to spend take advantage of opportunities to share the Gospel, instead of fighting over the minor issues. Praise Jesus!

Who's my priest?

Jo Ellen was visiting Chicago for the weekend, and God providentially had me meet her on her way to church on Sunday. She had a cruise planned for the day, so she had decided to attend Mass the night before. I questioned her on the meaning of salvation; and, as I expected, she said that her good deeds would save her. God gave me the words to tell her that I still sin though, and I'm sure she does too. Her response was that we need to be forgiven by the priest. What an awesome opportunity to proclaim to her our Great High Priest! Please pray that she will accept Him and His propitiation for her, and thereby experience freedom from sin.

Many roads up 1 mountain?

While waiting for the train to come on Sunday, I met Benjamin on his way to work. He is a Catholic and was very concerned that I believe in Mary. As the conversation went along, he told me that he believes that anyone - even a Buddhist, Muslim, or Hindu - who believes in a God (or gods for that matter) and prays will go to heaven. I asked him how he received salvation, and he replied that he got it from his parents. How sad! Jesus opened up the door for me to explain to him that people of religions other than Christianity can be very nice and moral, but that outward appearance doesn't mean they worship the same God and are on their way to heaven. Pray that the Holy Spirit will cause Benjamin to meditate on that thought.

Business men...tough!

I met Mike downtown and realized he was on his way to O'hare. He works in the engineering field and had just spent 10 days in Chicago for business. He seemed ready to go back home to Dallas for the Memorial Day weekend. Although he appeared uncomfortable talking about religious things, Mike told me he was raised as a Catholic. I told him that I am a Christian and that I just love Jesus. His attitude, sadly, was one of "been there, done that." God gave me the opportunity to challenge him to read the Bible for himself, forgetting all his preconceived opinions about Christianity and Jesus' followers.

God's timing, not mine

I met Jim on his way to work as an accounting and finance recruiter. He is in his mid-20's and has lived in the city ever since he graduated from college. He claimed to be a religious person, and then told me he is a Catholic. He blatantly told me he believes in salvation by works; just as I was sharing the true Gospel with him, his stop unexpectedly came, and he was gone. All I can trust is that God's timing is perfect. Please pray that Jim will go to the Word!

God's Providence

Michelle (not my girlfriend, but another Michelle) came to church this past Wednesday night for a Bible study that was unknowingly to her canceled. Somehow God didn't let the news spread to Shawn and I, so we both came to the Bible study too. God worked everything out that we could still have the Bible study in a nearby park. He still used His Word despite our little time for preparation. Pray for Michelle and that she will not only come back, but that God will show me (and others from our church) where she is spiritually, so we can reach out to her.

More than just being around Christians

While working at a System Parking office, I met Cynthia. She is a middle-aged, secretarial-type lady, who has the privilege of working close to 3 Christians - Matt, Eric, and myself. So far I haven't seen an openness to the Gospel in her, but God can still be working even when we don't see it. Pray that I'll be able to develop a relationship with her that testifies to the reality of Jesus.

Numerous Perspectives...God has only ONE!

Angelo is a man I met on his way to his downtown office. He travels the world designing power stations. He said he believes that there must be something supernatural up there, but he isn't sure what. As a world traveler, he has seen numerous religious practices and told me that he was disturbed about an incident where a Seattle worker was fired for saying "Merry Christmas." He questioned how I know Jesus is God, so I directed him to search out the Bible for himself, especially what Jesus claimed about Himself. Pray that Angelo will.

Jesus: "Look to Me"

I work with Miguel at the valet parking lot at Monroe and Wells. He confided in me that he has been fighting with his ex-wife and has been unable to sleep much at night. He wants to keep joint custody of his 8th grade daughter, but his ex-wife wants to take her to Florida. Pray that the Holy Spirit will open up Miguel's hard heart during this difficult time in his life.

Taking advantage of construction delays

I met Milan on the Blue train on his way back home to the Harlem area. He is 21 and is attending an institute downtown. He was extremely friendly to me and was willing to talk about the Bulls and Bears (for some reason, he doesn't follow the Cubs). He said that he considers himself to be a religious person, but definitely not a fanatic. After the example of his parents, he calls the Orthodox Church his own. Then, I asked him what his church believed about Jesus and salvation. All he could tell me is that his church believes that Jesus is God, but he had no clue what it says about salvation. God allowed me to share how I discovered what salvation really is and to challenge Milan to search the Bible out for himself to see what God says about Himself and salvation. Pray that God will cause him to go to His Word and that the Holy Spirit will do the work in his life.

God-appointed meeting with Ishmael

Even though he didn't really seem to be the most inviting guy to talk with, I met Ishmael on the train this morning. He is a junior at one of the high schools in the downtown area and rides the train to school every day. He has an intriguing background as a Jew who goes to a Catholic church. He hasn't chosen yet to make his family's religion and beliefs his own and is just open to different perspectives and ideas. I was able to tell him of my own spiritual journey and how I came to the conclusion that Jesus is the only way to salvation. Pray that he will meditate on what God says about sin and the eternal consequences of it and that he will embrace Jesus' substitutionary death as his only hope.