Good morning friends. Up and at 'em early today after an eye opening experience last night. Yesterday we drove through SD, IA and NE to get to the People City Mission of Lincoln. The PCM is an incredible resource for homeless and impoverished in the Lincoln area. The facility offers housing and aid to a wide range of cliental. They have housing available for families, single moms and single women in their Family Shelter. These folks are set up with case workers helping them to find jobs, cars and permanent housing. PCM also has transitional housing for men and women with programs to assist in Spritual, Educational, Recovery or Vocational restoration. The men and women in the transitional program pay rent to stay there and attend classes daily. The Emergency Services center provides overnight housing for families and individuals in crisis situations and the Free Clinic offers medical care via volunteer doctors and nurses. In addition, they provide 3 meals a day, everyday, clean sheets, towels, and amenities. `PCM is a faith based ministry that is privately owned an operated. All funding is provided by donors. Between the funders, staff, and clients it is said that over 50% of Lincoln's population has been involved in the People City Mission in some way.
We had the privilege of playing for the residents during their meal time and spending the night at the facility. We were greeted the door by a bubbly case worker named Katie. Her rapport with the residents was remarkable. She carried a smile everywhere she went, sharing a little joy with those she passed. Among those on staff were former residents, recovered addicts, social workers, a worship leader from the International House of Prayer. It was a beautiful array of folks who loved the Lord sharing hope and healing with people in need.
Throughout the night we met several residents who shared with us a little of their story. Michael was excited to have us there explaining that he gave His life to the Lord after a similar music group came to play. Marilyn - a sweet elderly woman requested we play one of her cousin's songs - Virginia Patterson Hensley aka - the great Patsy Cline. We ate dinner with a woman named Daphne who just moved to Lincoln from non other than Memphis, TN. Small world. And Keith informed me that he built the computer that runs the hubble telescope... The accuracy of that claim is yet to be determined :)
Our music was well received and the residents were warm and gracious. We felt like guests being welcomed into the family. On several occasions we were approached by folks who wanted to thank us for coming. They were so encouraging and it totally blessed us. Funny how that happens... you set out to minister and find yourself being ministered to.
That night we slept in a small apartment in the family shelter. It came complete with twin bunk beds, a small living room with a Lazy-boy and a bathroom. With so many folks under one roof hot water was non-existent, so we took cold showers in the morning and said our goodbyes. Rested and content we reflected on our night as we headed west. Next stop - Denver, CO.
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