This past Sunday the sermon at my church was about the blind beggar on the side of the road and his desire for healing. It struck me that once he cried out to Jesus, he was healed by faith and was no longer alone on the side of the road; Jesus walked alongside. At this time, Jesus was on the road to Jerusalem to make the ultimate sacrifice of Himself. Over the next month at Lubbock Impact, we will be preparing for a special evening called Journey to Jerusalem. It’s a chance for people to experience the sights and sounds of Jerusalem but also a time to cry out and no longer be a bystander but to know that Jesus is welcoming them to walk alongside Him.
Throughout the whole year, this is our goal at Lubbock Impact: to be a Christlike example to those who cry out in need of help and healing and welcoming them in. Many have been pushed aside and not heard in the mist of their heartache; not given a second thought because their clothes are torn and tattered; starving not only for food in their belly but for someone to share the gift of kindness with them; crying out for physical healing like the blind man Jesus healed.
On our journey in this life, we all need cheerleaders that smile and say, “You can do this!” “Don’t give up!” and then don’t leave us on the journey; people that stay and make sure we have what we need to make it one more day, week, or month and show us the hope we have in Christ. This is what helps us take a deep breath and know it’s going to be okay! This is what I pray we are for those who come to Lubbock Impact.
Over the last month, our staff have had several incidents where this has had to be our own verbiage as we also leaned into those who support us mentally and spiritually. We all need each other on this journey. Jesus knew we needed His help and the help of others to come alongside us.
I’m so glad to be on this stretch of my own road walking alongside some of my most loving and encouraging friends who also happen to be participants at Lubbock Impact. Every day, there are meaningful words exchanged and hugs that are deeply needed.
May this letter be an encouragement to know that you are not alone on your journey. There are still steps to be taken and this is your personal invitation to join us on the Journey to Jerusalem the evening of Thursday, April 17th. This is our third opportunity to share an experiential Jerusalem market with live animals followed by a time of reflection of what Christ did for us on the cross. It is a 30-minute walkthrough experience. My hope is that you will find peace and hope in your journey!
Your support and care for the participants at Lubbock Impact is greatly acknowledged.