Day Two - The Streets of San Diego

Howdy Parents!

Our first full day of ministry has been FANTASTIC (and I know all the leaders are just glad to not be driving anymore!).  We have spent the first part of the day visiting low income hotels and knocking on doors to offer the residents Vitamin Water and an invitation to a Bible Study and dinner tonight.  Door-to-door evangelism.  It's scary but powerful and the Lord has been at work with us today... and I figure there is no one better to tell you about it than a few of our very own students.  (You can also see more picks at www.shorttermtrips.org, click on "trip blogs" at the top... or on Eleanor Isenhours facebook page!)



We started the day with some clean up. Although we did not see anyone, we could tell that there were people living there because some of the things we found consisted of pants, jackets, and lots of socks. I was amazed at how much dirt was on the sidewalk. When I finished sweeping with about four dustpans full of dirt the sidewalk was white, but before we started, it was brownish gray.

After lunch we visited two low income hotels. We went door to door giving out Vitamin Water and invitations to various events. At first we were terrified just to knock on the door, but as we began to talk to people our confidence grew. Some people received us very well and wanted to share and pray with us. This was very encouraging, but even most of the people who did not want to talk or pray were still pretty welcoming.

I was struck by the hospitality that people showed and the joy that seemed to come from every person we met. I have noticed that if someone just smiles at me I am able to cheer up even when I am in a tough situation. The people we met are people and a simple smile can help them too. Though some people are ready and some are not, stories need to be shared and we were able to provide an ear to listen. Even simple things can make a difference, whether we see it or not.

Everyone seems to be doing a great job stepping out of their comfort zones. For some it is just saying a pray out loud. Others have been able to receive or even share stories. Even though people are already getting tired the overall attitude is positive. This has been a great first day of service and I am looking forward to the rest of the week.
      -Susannah Ditmar