The gift of service

Much of our time these days before Christmas might have been filled with trying to find the perfect gift for someone. 

I do enjoy shopping for friends and I love to see their reaction when they open the gift that I am hoping will be the perfect gift.  But I know for sure that the greatest gift that I have ever given and the greatest gift that I every received has been the gift of service.

When I accepted the gift of Jesus Christ and the salvation that He offered me, I realized that I had met the greatest servant that ever walked the earth.  Jesus was the perfect example of a servant. He was born to serve God and His children.  Jesus not only washed the feet of His disciples, He preached, He healed the sick, cleansed the lepers, raised the dead, cast out demons and died for me.

With Jesus as an example, we too are called to be servants.  "What does the Lord God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, and to walk in all His ways and to love Him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul." Deuteronomy 10:12

I have altered my prayer after reading  Deuteronomy 10:12.  No longer do I spend much time asking God to bless me.  Instead, I spend more time thanking him and asking him how I can bless Him and others.  "Lord, how can I serve you today?"

In Matt 10:7-8 Jesus instructs us to serve mankind exactly as He did "As you go, preach saying the kingdom of God is at hand, heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out demons."
Romans 12:1 tells us that our "reasonable service to the Lord is to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice."
Paul called himself a "bond servant" (service by choice) of Christ. 

As we celebrate Christmas our thoughts often turn to Mary, Mother of Jesus.  I believe that the greatest thing that Mary every did in her life is the same thing that we can do.   She said YES to God.  Mary said "behold the maidservant of the Lord!  Let it be to me according to your word." Luke 1:38 

Let this be the Christmas of giving the perfect gift.  Giving of our lives for the service of others.

Merry Christmas! 

Milestone Ministries Blog: Be careful who you believe?

Milestone Ministries Blog: Be careful who you believe?

Be careful who you believe?

Everyone is talking, many claim to be experts, all claim to be truthful and concerned about me and my best interests. From news channel to news channel, from person to person, from church to church, everyone is talking. They all want my attention, my money or my help. In exchange they promise to tell me what is right.....what is the truth. To make it worse we want to follow these people, we idolize them and we believe they can do no wrong. We teach our children to like them to follow them and strive to be like them. If they win enough football games, sell enough books or attract enough people to a gathering, they must be righteous......right. "Woe to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like white washed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly, but inside are full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness." Matthew 23:27 We must test what we hear against the truth. The age old question....."what is the Truth"? The bible says that "my righteousness is like filthy rags". So don't take my word for it. Examine for yourself. Remember, to expose what is counterfeit you should study the truth and the counterfeits will be reveal themselves. Jesus said that He is the truth and Paul proclaims in 2Timothy 3:16 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God (breathed word of God), and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness". Time and testing has proven that the Word of God is not only historically accurate, but it is prophetically correct. Feel free to continue to test it, try to prove it incorrect or inconsistent or ....Feel free to believe it. In either case you will find yourself in awe of God, because nothing stands up to be true like His word. When I decided to stop chasing the truth and simply receive it I found unexplainable peace. I no longer have to labor over who is telling me the truth. I met the Truth and now all that is false is evident. How do I deal with what I know to be a lie and keep my peace? I am still working on that....I just know that I must be patient.

Cleanup Continues

"We love Him because He first loved us." ~1 John 4:9-10

It has been six weeks since the devastating tornadoes struck western Mass. and the work continues. Thanks to our many generous donors and volunteer workers, Milestone Ministries has so far committed over 500 hours of labor and thousands of dollars to the relief effort. Our primary focus for our volunteers has been tree and debris removal in Springfield, West Springfield, Wilbraham, and Monson.We have been working with Springfield Christian Ministries Tornado Relief, a wonderful group that coordinates the need for cleanup, and dispatches the necessary crews to get the work done. We have also been responding to direct calls for help from folks we have met on this journey. 

"It is more blessed to give than to receive." ~ Acts 20:35

This week we were blessed to be a part of the Monson "Chainsaw Response Team" an incredible group of volunteers made up primarily of off duty firefighters from all over Massachusetts. On Wednesday we joined with more than 150 volunteers to clean up King Street, one of Monson's most ravaged neighborhoods. It was absolutely amazing how well organized we were. We had just the right mix of chain saw operators, heavy equipment operators, and labor to move and stack the logs, brush, and debris. By 7:00 p.m. Wednesday night King Street, although barren, was cleaned of all debris and fallen trees.

"But the salvation of the righteous is the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble." ~ Psalm 37:39

With our tornado relief fund we have been able to aid victims with transportation help, housing assistance, and equipment required for cleanup. This week we also purchased a Thomas Skid Steer Loader, a piece of heavy equipment that will allow us to move  logs, brush, and debris in a fraction of the time it now takes. Our generous donors can be assured that their contributions are being put to the most beneficial uses.

The work goes on. 

We will continue aiding those whose lives were changed due to the storms of June 1, 2011 until the need no longer exists.

Tornado of 2011 Now What

On June 1st Western MA was devestated by a tornado, the first in over 70 years.  The landscape of  Springfield, West Springfield, Wilbraham and     Monson has been changed for ever.  Those of us from Western MA who watched the tornado and it's aftermath on  television were stunned and amazed.  Those who were huddled in their basement holding on to their loved ones and praying were also stunned and amazed.  Stunned that in just a few moments much of their worldly possesions were scattered for miles and that their home was no longer on its foundation and amazed that they had crawled out of the rubble alive.

Watching the aftermath of a disaster from a distance will move you with emotion, but standing in the aftermath will bring you to your knees.

I am honored to be working with a group of Christian men, women and children from various churchs that spread out in work teams with chain saws, rakes and hearts for service.

Prepared with tools to cut trees, trim branches and rake debis I assended on the ravaged neighborhood believing that the "S" on my chest and the chain saw in my hand would actually make a dent.  But as I was driving through what remained of a neighborhood my "S" faded and my chain saw seemed as a spoon to empty the ocean.
I just stood in the rubble, took a deep breath to hold back the tears and dug in.   Sometimes the homeowners join in, sometimes they just stare with a blank expression.  They have been at this for days, often alone.

What do say as you stand with them in a pile of what  was their life?  "How are you"" seems foolish.  Should you ask them the same questions that they have already been asked many times? Should you ask, "how can I be of help"?  Sometimes in life there are no adequate words.  My Dad taught me that you shouldn't speak unless you can improve on the silence .....at this moment that is sound advise

I decided just to introduce myself and stand with them, often in silence, visually review the mess and start to work, just go ahead and start like I knew what I was doing.

The Bible also has sound advise for this situation, Paul said   "Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep".  Romans 12:15  This was the scripture that kept coming to mind.  Often the victims wanted to tell you how lucky or blessed or fortunate they were to be alive and so, standing in the mist of their life you rejoice with them.  Often  you could see desperation and fear in their eyes so you just stand and weep with them. 

It's kind of like going to the wake of someone that you never knew.  You are among people who have suffered a loss looking at a life laid out before them but you have no connection to the death.  So you just weep with them.

I am glad to report that we did make a dent after all.  But it was not the "S" on our chest that made the difference.  It was the heart in our chest that had the most effect.  We cleared many trees and picked up tons of debris but often the most important thing we did was to show up.

Milestone has also been providing needed supplies to the hundreds of families who are now living in a shelter because their home was destroyed.  If you would like to help you can donate on line at http://www.milestoneministry.org/.  100% of your donation will be used for the victims....no fuzzy math.

You can also help with prayer.  Just pray for restoration and deliverance.  God will respond.

 

Are Crumbs Enough?

It is always exciting to sit at the banquet table, and on many occasions I have been blessed  to enjoy that abundance.  But I have come to learn that I can live well on the crumbs. My daily bread is often what was left behind or ignored by others...... and that is sufficient for me.

Her daughter was sick, "demon - possessed", and she would do anything to make her well.  She'd heard there that there was a Jewish man named Jesus passing through her town and  that He had been healing the sick and casting out demons. 

Could it be true that her daughter might finally be healed.  If only she could meet Him and beg  for help. What are the chances?  As a Gentile, to approach him would be bad for her reputation.  What would her friends and family think?  Even if her daughter was healed who could she tell and who would rejoice with her.  Who would believe her?  Surely she would be chastised and possibly expelled from her people and her church.  But this was for her daughter and she was willing to risk it all.

She cried out to Him, saying, "Have mercy on me, Oh Lord, Son of David, my daughter is severely demon possessed".   His disciples urged Him to send her away; "she is not one of us".  But He answered and explained that He was sent first for the lost sheep of the house of Israel and she was not among that tribe.

This persistent Mom could not be discouraged so she worshiped Him, saying, "Lord help me!"
He answered and said, "It is not good to take the children's bread and throw it to the little dogs."
She pressed on, "yes Lord, yet even the little dogs eat the crumbs which fall from their masters' table."

Jesus answered and said to her, "O woman, great is your faith! Let it be to you as you desire," and her daughter was healed from that very hour.

This story as noted in Matthew 15:21 is one of compassion, faith, desperation and a simple prayer.  This Mom knew that the crumbs would be enough.  "Lord help me"was her simple prayer.

She came to Jesus the same way that many people seek him;
- they have a need/problem beyond their own ability to solve
- they come to  cry out (worship), often out of desperation
- they have faith that He can help, but wonder if He will

I find it exciting that due to the cross our access to Jesus and His mercy, healing, compassion and deliverance has no restriction.  Regardless of who we are, what we ever thought about Him  or were taught about Him, He will still receive us.  A recovering addict once said these beautiful words to me, " when I got to the very bottom, my lowest point......Jesus was there."

About 24 years ago I reluctantly exchanged everything that I thought was important for just a few crumbs.  I am glad to proclaim that God responded.  Today my plate is full everyday..... with plenty to share.  For this I am grateful.  Alleluia.

Do What Matters

On June 4th My Father’s House was blessed by 16 wonderful folks from all over the region. They were loaned to us for the day while visiting Springfield for the New England Synod Assembly of the Lutheran Church. The results were stunning.  Our carriage house was painted, our flower gardens were refreshed, trees were chain sawed and best of all we had a great time. My thanks to all those who

participated.....you have been a blessing to us.

 

The stones cried out

The whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen.  The Pharisees called Jesus from the crowd, "Teacher rebuke your disciples."  He answered and said to them, "I tell you that if these should keep silent, the stones will immediatly cry out."
This abridged verse from Luke 19:37 was like a whisper in my ear as I stood before the magnificence of God to snap this photo.
  It was difficult to hear anything above the sound of stones and sea crying out "Holy, Holy, Holy". 
Creation makes it easy for us to clearly  see the invisible attributes of God..so we have no excuse.  Paul says it best in Romans 1: 18 ~ 21, where he states that creation itself leaves no doubt of God's  love, beauty, righteousness and power.
Our God gave the sea it's boundries and stones their strength.  He placed the planets and saw to every detail in a rose.  Yet He states that you are more valuable to Him than all these things. 
He sent His only Son for your salvation.....everything else of the earth is disposable to God. 
Eternity is too long to be wrong, invite  Jesus into your heart today.

Restoration

"And may he be a restorer of life and nourishment of your old age".  This quote from the Bible's book of Ruth 4:15, was given to Ruth to encourage her when she conceived a child in her later years.  This child was named "Obed"  which means "servant".  Proof that it is never too late for God to bring new life and restoration. 

This is a photo of the carriage house located on our property at "My Father's House". (see us on facebook)  This building is 140 years old and while it does not look like much on the outside right now, restoration began to take place on the inside over 1 year ago.  Very soon the outside will be restored and this old structure will look as though it has new life, but the truth is that new life began on the inside in November of 2009.   Even though we are now adding a new roof, siding and windows, it is the 15 months of rebuilding the integrity of the structure that will matter most in a storm.

God promises us that He is a restorer.  No matter our age, situation, or sinful ways; God desires restoration in our life.  But, like our old carriage house, restoration begins inside where it is not always evident to the world.  When we give our heart to Jesus He will turn it from stone to flesh.  As he begins to restore our heart it will soon begin to radiate on our outside.

Giving our heart to Jesus is a difficult decision because we are afraid that He will force us to change.  The truth is, He does not have to force us.  The restoration of your heart will be a slow process not quickly evident from the outside, but you will welcome it because it comes with great joy.

The cost of restoration for our carriage house has been an expensive process.  The cost of restoration of our heart  is FREE for the asking.  Jesus has already paid the price in full (just look to the cross).   Now it's up to us....if we just ask him to come into our heart and life.  He will forgive us instantly and our joy will be restored.

As long as we have breath it's never too late for restoration.

Make the most of every opportunity

Jesus  never missed an opportunity.  He took advantage of every opportunity as though each one was an  ordained moment given to Him by His Father.  Opportunities to teach,  preach, correct, edify, heal, weep, rejoice or pray never passed Him by.  He never recalled a situation with "I should have acted". 

Yes, He was God incarnate, but He has given us that same Spirit of truth that led Him daily. 
In John 14:15 Jesus proclaims  "If you love me, keep my commands.  And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—  the Spirit of truth."

I encourage you to do something radical.......it's time to....

“Wake up, sleeper,  rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”   "Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is."  Ephesians 5:14

There is no time like the present.  When the opportunity presents itself.....do as Jesus would have you do according to His will.  "If you are not sure of his will, just ask.....he died that you might know it. 
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him."  James 1:5

Did you miss an opportunity to be of help today?  No problem, let it go and move on.  Another opportunity will be given to you soon. 

Did you make the most of an opportunity today?  Great...but your not done. 

Keep giving of yourself as though your joy depended on it.  It does! 

Amherst Shelter concludes the season with a joyous celebration.

We recently marked the close of a successful season operating the Amherst Homeless Shelter with a celebration to acknowledge the individuals and area businesses that helped make our first foray into Amherst such a success. On Saturday April 30th we entertained approximately 50 volunteers, staff, and supporters of the shelter with a wonderful lunch provided by our friends at Tommaso's Restaurant, and live entertainment by "Saints of Tomorrow" an up and coming Christian alternative rock band from Springfield.

(www.reverbnation.com/saintsoftomorrow)

The Shelter Statistics

The Amherst shelter had a capacity of 16 individuals, and served both male and female. A total of 84 individuals (62 male 22 female) stayed at the shelter between November 1, 2010 and May 1, 2011. The length of their stays were anywhere from 1 night to 150 nights, with the average length of stay 24 nights. The average age of the guests was 41. Individuals staying at the shelter were given referrals to more than 30 different agencies and housing opportunities. A total of 25 guests were accepted into programs, or moved into their own housing situation.

It Takes a Village

It took the help of so many wonderful individuals and supporting businesses to pull it off every night, I could not attempt to list them all, for fear that I might miss someone. However we do want to recognize a few, without who's contribution we would have struggled.

Every evening, in addition to our staff, we were blessed by a pool of more than 30 volunteers who assisted with the daily setup and tear down of the shelter, and also helped in providing fellowship and encouragement to the guests.

Meg Wright from Eliot Homeless Services proved to be an outstanding partner in the case management of our guests. Many guests of the shelter were able to move into more permanent living situations because of the diligent case management efforts of Meg and Milestone.

Several local businesses lent their support this year also. The Sub and Pizza Restaurant (http://www.subandpizza.com/), the Amherst Motel (http://www.amherstmotel.com/), Domino's Pizza Hadley (www.pizza.dominos.com/massachusetts/amherst/, and Tommaso’s Restaurant in Feeding Hills (http://www.tommasos.net/) were all extremely generous with their support.

The First Baptist Church of Amherst and their many supporters, led by Jerry Gates, played a major role in making the shelter a reality. By raising the funds necessary to install a sprinkler system and showers, the church was able to secure a permit for a permanent shelter

We would like to especially thank Chef Steve Dinalais. Steve, with the support of his brother Mark prepared over 140 meals for the shelter all at his own time and expense. With Steve around we never had any worries about food service at the shelter.

Although the shelter has closed for the season, we will continue to pray for all of the wonderful people we encountered, as well as  follow the progress of many of the guests that blessed us with their presence.

A Light for all Nations

"I will make you as a light for the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth." Isaiah 49:6


In his book, "Live to make a difference", Max Lucado writes "oh Lord what an amazing opportunity you have spread out before me, a chance to make a difference for you in a desperately hurting world. Help me to see the needs you want me to see, to react in a way that honors you, and to bless others by serving them gladly with practical expressions of your love"

To seek the heart of God and the mind of Christ we must be prepared to face the pain of compassion. To be shaken to our very core when we see the plight of others. It is easier to look the other way than to look into the eyes of despair. Jesus never looked the other way, he was always moved with compassion. Matt. 9:36 proclaims that He saw the multitudes and was moved with compassion for them.
 
Jesus came to live among us out of compassion and he took our sins to the cross out of compassion.  We will never be asked to offer ourselves to the degree that Jesus offered himself for us......but,  with the heart of God and mind of Christ.....when you look into the eyes of dispair you will see Jesus and know exactly what to do next.
 
You are the light of Christ......like the reflective moon for Son of God.......shine brightly.....the world is in darkness except for His light.

Rise up and walk

"In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk"  Acts 3:6.

Depending on the world to meet your needs will always keep you handicapped.  If you feel dependent on friends, family, church or the world government for your daily bread, God is offering you freedom. 

Yes, God may have others bless you in His name, Alleluia, but don't  become dependent on anyone but Him.
"Both riches and honor come from You, And you reign over all.  In your hand is POWER and might; In your hand it is to make great And to give strength to all."
1 Chronicles 29:12

Acts 3 tells the story of a man dependent all his life on the goodness of others.  Because he was lame since birth he accepted his condition and the human limitations of what good, well meaning, church going people could offer.  He was carried to the temple daily but never brought in.  He was given alms enough for one days supply but not for a lifetime.  Even when he met Peter and John at the temple gate, all he expected was a few coins; which he had come to believe was all that he was worth. 

"Silver and gold I do not have but what I have I give to you, in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk".  Immediatly his feet and ankle bones recieved strength, so he, leaping up, stood and walked and entered the temple with them~  walking, leaping, and praising God".  Acts 3:6~8

"The  Lord shall supply all your need according to His riches riches in Glory by Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Saints of God.....
Be assured that His supply is ENDLESS and available to all who call on his name.

please pass this on to someone that would be blessed by it or send them to www.milestoneministry.blogspot.org

Power of united prayer

"Where two or three are gathered in my name, there I am in the midst of them." Matt 18:20

God hears you....always! 
Then why gather in his name if he hears my singular prayer?  Unity, there is power in unity. 

If you have accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior than you have accepted the Holy Spirit and His Power that lives and abides in you.  This is the Spirit of truth and with the Truth comes power.  Power against the lies of the devil, power against depression, anxiety, loneliness, sickness. 

When you join the power in you with the Holy Spirit power in other believers, the lying devil is unable to make you question your faith. 

Imagine the power, truth and peace that comes when thousands of Holy Spirit filled believers come together in the name of Jesus.

Find time today to join with others in Jesus name ......and ENJOY His presence!

I am special to God

"Your eyes saw my substance being yet  unformed.  And in your book they all were written.  The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them."  Psalm 139:16

You are an amazing creation of God.  No creation of God is a mistake.  He knows the days  and plans he has for you and they are marvelous. 

Give your life to Jesus and enjoy your inheritance.

Sadness over the loss of Pastor David Wilkerson

It has been a difficult season mourning the loss of our Pastor. A simple man and devoted husband, father, grandfather and truly a "man of God". I've only had the honor of meeting Pastor David a couple of times and every time I was in awe because of his simple loving kindness. He always seemed as glad to say hello to me as I to him. He was a spiritual giant while on this earth touching countless millions of lives. But a gentle spirit that beamed of love.

His ministry inspired my street ministry and love for those struggling with addiction and homelessness. I pray that our ministry "My Fathers House" will have an effect on the Palmer community that would make him proud.

I have fed on Pastor David's newsletters for about 15 years and his daily devotionals since they've begun. His sermons call me to action and challenge me to love with the heart of God and the mind of Christ.

The Sunday after his death my wife and I were compelled to travel to NY and worship at Times Square Church, the church founded by Pastor David in 1987. It was a perfect day to spend with Church family. I have attached the link to Pastor Carter Colon's Sunday sermon "a private moment for Times Square Church".  It was more clear than ever why Pastor David choose Carter as his senior Pastor and successor at TSC.....he is a good man with a truthful heart. TSC is in good hands.

My wife and I began worshiping at TSC back in 1996 and between 2002 and 2009 we make the 2 1/2 hour journey twice a month. We were hungry for the Truth and TSC always delivered. Cathy and I would always pray that Pastor David would be preaching the day we attended and when he did it was a great treat.  However, we quickly learned that it is the Spirit of God speaking at TSC and the preachers are only the vessels being used.

I loved a man that I barely knew....thank you Pastor David for lovingly and painfully saying yes to the call of God.

Alleluia for the gift of David Wilkerson.

"It is finished"

Jesus said  "It is finished !"  And bowing His head, He gave up His Spirit. John 19:30

A seed must die before it brings forth fruit.  

Because Jesus died...... the fruit of the Spirit is available to you.  

Because Jesus rose from the dead......those who have chosen Jesus are also free.

Cast off the chains of this world, come down off the cross that binds you...... and live in the freedom of Jesus Christ. John 14:6 

Just ask Him to come into your life......you will not be denied.........but you will be free.

HAVE YOU HEARD THE GOOD NEWS?  Matthew 28:6

Great day at "My Fathers House"

April 2nd marked our annual Spring Clean Up day at "My Fathers House" and what a wonderful day we had.

 
 
 



The weather reports could have scared us away, the hard work might have intimidated us..... But.....by the grace of God the weather turned out to be beautiful and the work was made lighter with many hands and smiling faces.

Every successful day of fellowship requires good food.  Some of Jesus' most talked about work involved good food and fellowship.   Thanks to Frank on the grill and Ricks amazing American Chop Suey (secret reciept)



Chef Frank serving the troops.

 

Rick coming to announce "LUNCH IS READY"



Soon My Fathers House will be helping men to restore their lives but for now the important work is retoring the property.  Thank you all for helping, whether it be with you hands, your prayers or your offerings.....I am grateful and want you to know what a blessing that you are; not just to this ministry but to the many lives that God will restore through your service and  generosity.

THANK YOU ALL AND GOD BLESS YOU



Spring Clean Up at "My Fathers House"

Hope you can join us for our 2nd annual Spring Clean Up day at " My Fathers House" in Thorndike (Palmer), MA.  April 2nd from 10:00 - 2:00 we will gather to rake and dig and plant ....oh yeah EAT.  If you have a  rake or  a friend (or both) bring them along and join us for fellowship and barbecue.  If you don't have a rake or a friend.....we'll find you one when you get here.
For directions e-mail me at jack@milestoneevents.org

Restoration process:  It's been just over one year since we purchased the property and began renovations.  The Carriage House has had massive renovations and will soon be our  community space to be used as a music center, meeting space, chapel etc. 

The main house has gone through many renovations on the outside and we have begun renovations on the inside.   It is our hope to be ready by the end of summer and begin to serve God's people.  It is our hope that My Fathers House will be a place of restoration for those people who's lives have fallen into disrepair and who have made a decision to be restored.

As with My Fathers House project, Restoration can often seem like a slow process, but patience will bring it to perfection.  Scripture proclaims in James 1:4, "Let patience have it's perfect work".

Restoration starts with a decision, then a goal and a plan.   The timing is best left to God.  But you can be sure that His timing is perfect.   I  have come to learn that this is true in any restoration whether it is a life or a building.  My personal restoration took many years; as a matter of fact I am still under repair.  I can wait......I have eternity.

"For He restores to man His righteousness" Job 33:26

My Fathers House

Progress continues at "My Fathers House" in Palmer. 

Finally after 12 months of reconstructive work, we have begun some astetic work on the outside of the house and carriage house.  New siding on the house and a rebuilt cupola on the carriage house.  The next steps are some of the most important and the most expensive.  We are accepting bids for foam insulation, replacement windows, plumbing, heating, electric.  We are praying for as much donated supplies and labor as possible.  This is a big ask in this tough economy but our God is able!   Thanks to our Brother Glenn much of our land is cleared and looking great. 
I am graeful to everyone that has been working unselfishly to transform a property that will soon transform lives. 
My Fathers House is proof of the power of prayer.  I am grateful to God for His grace & faithfulness.

To learn more about the power of prayer and the saving grace of Jesus Christ visit us at "My Fathers House" either in person or at facebook.

Amherst Emergency Shelter

After 3 months into our new venture, the Amherst Emergency Shelter is progressing well.  This has been one of the coldest, snowiest winters in New England's recent history and we are glad to provide a warm, safe place for the homeless residence of the Amherst area.  I are grateful to the town of Amherst, the businesses and residents for supporting our work.  With the town's support and donations from the local businesses and residents we are able to provide 16 people every night with a hot meal and comfortable cot safe from the elements.  Thanks to the First Baptist Church for allowing us to use their building.  By the grace of God we will continue to provide shelter until May 1st.