April Update

Dear Family and Friends,

We were standing in the street when the cops arrived. They had come to file a report on five vehicles parked outside of our ministry center. Four belonged to World Impact Staff members and one to a college student visiting us for the weekend. All five had been broken into just minutes earlier, while our staff was inside, leading a closing session with that weekend college group. The group of students had come to learn about God’s heart for this city and the ministry He has established here through World Impact.

During our final moments with the group Jason, one of my fellow staff members, led a devotion entitled, “Theology of the City.” We read in Genesis about the first city, founded by man in rebellion to God, and in Revelation about the last, redeemed by God for His People. Jason emphasized God’s heart for those in dark places, and His desire to redeem the cities of this world to Himself. Near the end of his teaching time Jason spoke about our city, and more specifically, North St. Louis, where we live and work, saying, “this neighborhood is not yet redeemed, that is why God has us here.” Little did we know the proof of that statement was waiting for us outside.

The break-ins that occurred that evening have only been part of the rash of activity which has taken place here recently. Just a few weeks prior to this event three more cars, all belonging to World Impact staff members, had their windows smashed for the change in the ashtrays. Another week earlier our director’s van was stolen. Each of those events took place in broad daylight.

It is hard not to feel like a target. The police are here so frequently they recognize our faces and know some of us by name. I have to confess that as I surveyed the damage to my own car I began to wonder silently, “Is someone trying to run us off? Will this ever end? Why am I even here, anyway?”

Yes, it is frustrating to replace window after window on your car. Yes, it is annoying to have to vacuum glass out of your backseat. Yes, it is painful to pay for repairs again and again. But, if we allow ourselves to become mired down by these situations we risk becoming cynical, bitter, and soon, ineffective as ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

And so we continue to park our cars at the Center. We continue to repair them when they are attacked. We continue to file police reports that may never lead to justice. We continue to forgive those who have wronged us, even without knowing who they are. And we continue to try to model the love of Christ to a neighborhood not yet redeemed.

These are not always easy choices to make. I need strength daily from God to love and forgive as He commands. Thank you for praying for me.

Serving Him,
Beth