Notes from our Executive Director

“Hope for the future makes you believe in the present.” This quote jumped off the page of a book I was reading recently, which then turned into a long conversation with a friend about our faith in Christ. 

The following Tuesday evening, at the Community Meal, I reminded participants of the opportunity to write their prayer requests on the slips of paper at their table so that our staff would be able to pray over them. As I read the requests that came in, a sense of hope poured over me. Each request was about a present problem that needed attention; sharing belief that physical healing would happen, finances would change, and relationships would be restored. Have you prayed similar prayers lately? Whether we are in material poverty or social poverty, we are all seeking hope.  

Last week, a new participant, who had been referred to us, came in looking for clothing. After having the opportunity to chat with him, we discovered that his needs extended far beyond what could be satisfied by a few “new to him” pieces of clothing. He was seeking a job, housing, food, and a reminder that God is still present. We connected him to the right resources for his needs, prayed with him, and invited him back for the Community Meal. On Tuesday night, he came in smiling, ready for dinner, and during a conversation with other participants, he was invited to church on Sunday. Sure enough, he came and even stayed for their potluck lunch after the service, taking the opportunity to get to know the church family. As God would have it, another individual attended the service and sat beside the new participant, allowing them to visit and exchange experiences. As a result of this interaction, both individuals identified commonalities in their different backgrounds, which allowed them to forge a new friendship. All these touchpoints were reminders for this man, to help him understand that while he was hoping for a better future, God was showing him that his heavenly Father is constantly present, even during difficult times. God is steadily making provisions for today that will grow us stronger for tomorrow.  

Lubbock Impact is a great place to see with your own eyes that God is at work today and is prepping us for the plans He has for the future. May you be encouraged to embrace your present circumstances knowing God sees you and is the HOPE worth believing in. 

 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.  Jeremiah 29:11-13