Wednesday, August 25, 2021 9:54 PM

Hello!  Yesterday (Tues.) the Gospel reading was one of the favorites we've explored in group for Luke 15 (Recovery) House. Instantly I thought of the hundreds of groups I have loved facilitating over the past 17 years. I was so energized and excited as I felt called to go to the House for the 1st time in over a year, because of Covid.

  Larry & I headed out for 1:00. The men have a free afternoon to attend appointments or have recreation, but no group is scheduled for Wednesday afternoons. I thought I might be visiting with someone who was on house arrest and had no choice but to sit with me. Well! I was so delighted when a dozen men were waiting for us to arrive. Nathaniel in the bible was sitting under a tree, so I have always invited the men to sit under the trees in the front garden. Well, that didn't happen, except for one fellow who sat alone with me, because the shrubs are all overgrown.

  Through the reading, we spoke about the problem with acting on misperceptions; sharing our joy with others; willingness to change; the freedom of forgiveness; surrendering our will to God who sees the great potential He created in each of us.... And that's where I choked. I told them that God has given me this gift, to see the great potential they were created to live. For fellows I've known from before, the tears are expected at some point, and for the newbies, maybe for the first time they have witnessed someone shed tears while expressing ultimate joy.

  The men were so attentive ( a lot of nodding in agreement is a good sign). Out of the dozen of men or so, several of them expressed gratitude and appreciation for what was shared, and the fact that Larry & I made a special effort to come and spend time with them. One fellow kept repeating "It takes a lot of people to make this place what it is!" I am filled with joy and hope when anyone expresses gratitude, because it’s a wonderful sign that healing is taking place. Often, when a man first comes in, he is just not able to express gratitude, but gradually the ugly film uncovers their eyes and heart to see goodness in life.

   For as much as the men say that we have blessed them, the blessing and pleasure is certainly ours in abundance. 'To love and be loved', is a key component of the blessing that the men come to know at Luke 15 House. It is such a privilege to be part of that 'miracle'.

  I told them about my journey through cancer & therapies. I told them I would offer my chemo-time tomorrow as a prayer for them. They said they would be praying for me too.

  I never would have imagined myself in such an environment before the time I first found myself there in January 2005. It's been a great fit. The Holy Spirit has always given me more grace than I need to be an instrument of His love for these prodigal sons.

  God bless you. Xoxo  

*** If you like, you can check out Luke 15 Transition House for Men at:  https://www.luke15house.org