Have you ever been so overcome you spent the day on the verge of tears and shouting praises? This is the only way I can explain yesterday as I witnessed the best of humanity. People helping people with no hidden agendas. Just love. There was no judgement. Just Love. No ‘should have.’ Just Love. No ‘if only.’ Just love. No Politics. Just love. No social media. Just love for one another.

It started Monday night at RENEW. Our community meal and discussion about topics that help people find a life worth living. I was eating dinner when a good friend came over to express concern about the homeless on what might be the coldest day in decades. I listened to the concern knowing the question was coming and the answer was already answered years before. “What would you think of hosting a warming shelter for those in need?” she asked. “I think God would be honored. That’s why we exist. It’s why the saints of old provided this building.” I answered.

It was a blur of activity after that. People stepping up to arrange snacks, lunch, volunteers and rides for those without transportation. The day started at 6:30am making sure the basics were ready. The guests arrived at 7:30 which began the haze of introductions, conversations, laughter and serving. As the last guest and volunteer left around 4:30pm, I sat quietly reviewing the day in awe of God’s provision.

The Itasca community is amazing. Secular and non-secular organizations working together: the police, Churches, social service agencies, restaurants, nonprofits and even a few concerned individuals. Every person from every group sharing a unique talent to offer a little heaven here on earth. The words from my favorite guy came to mind...

I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. John 17:22-23

God revealed himself in Itasca. He inspired, encouraged and directed a single tribe of willing individuals to work as one. ONE working in complete unity will forever be forged in my mind. Grateful to have been a small part of His love for those in the community.