Madera Rescue Mission

This last Friday evening (December 9), Max, Simon, Phil Seymour, and I traveled to the Rescue Mission in Madera, California. Max had engaged to speak during their chapel time. It was his first time to publicly proclaim the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ.


When we arrived, many men were lined up at the door, registering and taking a breathalyzer test. We sat quietly and watched while the room filled up.


They invited us to all sit on the platform in the front.


One of the head men there called everyone to "reverence". They had a reading of the "rules" first - basic behavior (no food or drink in the chapel, drop your weapons off when you come in-they will be returned when you leave, don't loiter around the mission during the day, etc.), rules regarding staying at the mission (one was no shower over 5 minutes long, etc.), and consequences for infractions.


They then took up a collection, each man putting into the "plate" a few coins.


Max then spoke for about 45 minutes.


Here is a very basic summary of his thoughts about Gideon:
* The battle is not to unto the swift.
* Oppression comes into our lives as a result of our disobedience and sin. Jesus breaks the chains of sin.
* Gideon's question: Why am I suffering?
* God's answer: You have not obeyed my voice.
* Gideon's commission: He was part of the solution.
* Gideon's response: humility
* Gideon takes action: he tears down the idols.
* The call of God tonight (Today if you will hear his voice, do not harden your heart)
* Repent and cry out to God for deliverance.


Interesting to see some listening intently, some not at all. We were encouraged by the words of thankfulness by a few. We pray that God will bless the Word to these needy men and deliver them.


Scott