Week Two

Now that I finally have internet hooked up at the house, I'll be able to write a little more frequently. Thank goodness! This past week has been hard on me. There's plenty of great news to share which far better than the negative news. I debated what it is I wish to share and after prayer feel that transparency in all aspect is best. The days out and about are wonderful as I engage people and check things out but it's the evenings coming home to a silent and empty home that is painful to my soul. I know these moments will not last so I try to not let it get the best of me. I share this only to ask for your prayers. This city boy feels secluded from all other life when I pull up the driveway. Now onto the wonderful news! Early last week, I came across a Christian bookstore in town. I browsed around and met with the married couple that owned the place. It was a wonderful feeling to be in there, to heard the vocals of Chris Tomlin singing worship, to read encouraging scripture on the walls. I needed that right then and there. I introduced myself to the owners and shared my excitement that I stumbled upon their establishment. The first question out of everyone's mouth when I tell them I moved from San Diego to Helena, Montana is "Why would you do that?" I love that open door. The gentleman told of a weekly meeting held for the local Pastors, as a time for prayer and discussion. He kindly gave me the contact information and away I went. I entered a nearby coffee shop. I prefer the smaller ma' & pa' types over the big corporation giants if I can help it. This place had a nice, cozy lounge feel to it. It has plenty of seating with couches and comfy chairs arranged for gatherings. I introduced myself to the staff member behind the counter, who turned out to be the owner. I complimented his place and inquired his thoughts on possibly allowing me to host a weekly Bible study here. Not only did he welcome the idea, but 2 customers sitting there enjoying their drinks spoke up and said they'd love to attend if I did start one up! So technically Branch Church of Helena now has a meeting place. Another answered prayer... check! Meetings will start right after Easter on Monday evenings from 7pm-9pm. I'm still praying about meeting somebody with a heart to sing and lead worship, possibly with a guitar. In addition to that great news, I've been hired by another company, which I shall not publically disclose where but if you have my number I'm more than happy to tell you details. In short, I will be a Youth Counselor for troubled teens. Looking at this, I can see God's hand all over it. I had a troubled youth so I can relate to these kids. I've been through a lot and I've come up from those miry pits. My hope is to use my life experiences and testimony to reach the youth. Everyone needs Jesus and looking back on my life, my only regret is that I did not meet my Savior sooner. This past Sunday I attended another church. It felt much like the San Diego Branch, even the theatrical seating was like home. I arrived early and caught worship rehearsal. I sat alone but only for a moment... I was greeted by an elderly woman who was not shy and welcomed me. I stand out like a sore thumb in Helena. I'm big, tall, shaved head and apparently have that newbie look going on. The next person to say hi to me was the associate Pastor. I felt right at home and let him know that. As church got started, the seated filled in nicely. The message was good but topical. I immediately missed my Pastors more than I already do. After service I was greeted by a bubbly spirited sister in Christ who also is new to Helena. We are both church hunters looking for meaty substance! I gave her my background and purpose of moving to Helena and with excitement so too said that she'd like to attend my bible study once I start. It turns out that she works at another senior living home and has given me an opportunity to start a regular service there for the residents. That now makes it 2 homes that I'll be sharing in as the Lord leads. As I was leaving, I was stopped at the doors by the Pastor of the church. Turned out to be a great guy on fire for the Lord with a heart to see people come to Jesus. He gave me his cell number and offered any help at all, including info on other churches that I'll be checking out. I foresee this Pastor becoming my friend in due time. The weather is so strange in Montana and it will take some getting used to. It's not that it's cold, it's that the weather changes so drastically so fast. During the week I went back to what is known as "The Gulch" which is Helena's downtown district. My hope was to walk around and street witness some more. It has been too windy and chilly for anyone to be outside walking around. I need to be strategic in my planning so that I'm using my time wisely. In closing, I just need consistent prayer coverage from my brothers & sisters.