They did it again...

It's always amazing to see the dedication and faithfulness of our volunteers. So many of them love the Mission and our guests as much as we do. Today, Pam brought in cookies for the guys on the program. Pam comes regularly every Wednesday, along with several others. Joyce, one of our volunteer receptionists, unexpectedly popped in to cover the front desk for an hour or so, while her car was being worked on across the street. On Tuesdays, right after leaving her regular job, Elizabeth covers the phones for a couple hours, and I am humbled at the thought of someone who gets out of work and, instead of relaxing with some time to herself, gives that time to us. After all, it is in large part, the volunteers, their compassion, dedication, and spirit of self sacrifice, that makes this place one of the best places on earth to work. And also a blessed place for our guests, at least we try our best to make it so. We couldn't survive without them.

What do you say?

So, today's blog is more of a question... What do you say to a mother who calls about donating her son's belongings because he has passed away?

We get a lot of unusual and interesting calls at the Mission and donations come in a variety of ways, but there's always that hardship of being grateful for the "benefits" of a tragedy. A husband dies, and his wife requests that donations be sent to the Mission in lieu of flowers. A young man just starting his life is killed in a terrible accident, and his father calls to ask if we'll take the extra food from his son's funeral dinner.

Compassion wrapped in a blanket of pain and loss... And what do you say?

Welcome: Behind the Scenes

In 1911, when Thomas and Emily Dolton founded the City Rescue Mission of Lansing, the world was a very different place. Clothing styles, medicine, education, transportation, communication...everything has changed. However, the needs of people around us have not changed. In John 12:8, Jesus told His disciples that the poor would always be with us; this is not to point out the hopelessness of our cause but rather to emphasize the opportunities in front of us every day.

At one of the annual Mission appreciation banquets, a couple who support the Mission expressed the idea that we, who work at the Mission, serve on "the front lines." In a way, this is very true. Being face-to-face, daily, with the full range of human suffering can wear on even the most compassionate spirit. Fortunately, behind every action we take, whether it be cooking a meal or answering the phone, the ultimate purpose is more than just service. Our desire is to glorify God by exemplifying the love of Christ to someone who may feel beyond love.

It is an awesome responsibility, to be the face and hands and words of Hope to people who feel lost and alone. This is to be a record of their stories, and ours, as we seek to meet their needs, both physical and spiritual. Thank you for joining us on our journey. And welcome!