Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 13

Today I was given the opportunity to talk at length with quite a few people. Usually, my conversations with people has been limited to a few minutes. But, today Jose and I must have talked for almost a half hour about faith and life. He shared with me his amazing journey of redemption and I had the privileged to pray with him and for his family. I prayed favor and peace for Jose, but then the Lord moved me to break the generational curse of alcoholism in Jose's family. Something the Lord has been continually teaching and challenging me to do is to walk in the power and authority He has given me as His disciple (Luke 9:1; 2 Corinthians 10:3-8). 

Everyday I am confronted by the reality of the great cosmic battle between good and evil where the devil is constantly trying to steal, kill and destroy the life Jesus desires to bring into people's lives (John 10:10). What I've learned over the years of engaging in spiritual warfare both in my own life and in the lives of others is that the only way to stand up against the devil and his schemes is to do it in the authority of Jesus' Name (Acts 2:38; 3:6, 16; 4:10), in the power of the God's Word (2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12; 2 Peter 1:3) and in and under the anointing of the Holy Spirit (Luke 4:18, 19; 1 Corinthians 12:7; Ephesians 3:26; 1 John 2:27) which collectively means speaking the truth and life of Jesus into people's lives and releasing in greater measure the presence of God and the reality of His Kingdom. 

With each person I talked and prayed with today (Jose, Patrick, Denise, Rahelle, Bridget, Wesley and Greg) what they repeatedly ask for was blessing and what I was repeatedly moved to pray for as well  was favor. We are still living in challenging times and people are still struggling vocationally, financially emotionally and spiritually and God's heart towards His children, both found and lost, is one of goodness, kindness and love. But there are many, many people who believe that they need to work their way into Heaven and earn God's good graces. So, much of my conversations with people and the wording of my prayers with them is to help break through this distorted understanding of God's heart towards them. God gives freely with no strings attached. He gives us His unconditional love because He desires our unconditional love in return. The last thing He wants is to coerce us, that's why He has given us free will. He wants us to choose Him over the devil, the things of the world, other people, even ourselves. 

Sorry for going off there, but as you can tell I am pretty passionate about this. Maybe it's because it pains me so deeply to see people being deceived and lied to and in bondage and oppressed. When I know that God's not angry with them and that He's not waiting for them to step out of line so that He can punish them. God is not vindictive and petty, but I can't tell you how many people I've met who think He is. What I believe and what I believe the bible says about God is that His plans for us are good and not harmful (Jeremiah 29:11), that He is overjoyed when we call out to Him (Jeremiah 29:12-13; Psalms 34:17-18; 57:2; 147:3; ), that He delights in His creation (Genesis 1; Psalm 104; Zephaniah 3:17) and is eager to be in relationship with us (Luke 15). But the devil, the world, even our own earthly desires will do everything they can to keep us separated from God by deceiving and distorting our view and understanding of who God is and His heart towards us. But, Jesus has defeated the devil (Colossians 2:14-15), overcome the world (John 16:33) and has endured every temptation without sinning (Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22). It is through Him that we have victory and through Him that we receive ALL the joy, peace, riches and blessings of Heaven. 

So as Jesus tells us: "Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give" (Matthew 10:8 NIV). 

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 12

My time with family down in San Antonio was amazing. God showed up and ministered to my brother and his wife. God opened up a way for me to pray with both of them and to even give a prophetic word about God's hand in what is happening in their family now. My sister-in-law shared with me that she literally felt a hand squeeze her shoulder. It was like God was letting her know that He hears her, sees her and that He is with her. So cool! 

Nevertheless, it felt great to be back out on the street after a week away and today was eventful. It started out with a great conversation with Himanchu who was walking around today sharing about Krishna Consciousness. I learned about his beliefs while getting a chance to answer some of his questions about Jesus. I hope to see Himanchu again so that we can continue our conversation. 

Next, a homeless man came up to me asking for money. He was obviously high on something. Normally, I would have told him no and allowed him to move on. But, lately I've been reading a great book called, "When Helping Hurts: How to Alleviate Poverty Without Hurting the Poor . . . and Yourself" by Steve Corbett and Brian Fikkert which talks about seeing poverty alleviation in relational terms because the only way to understanding the best way to help someone in poverty is by getting to know them. So, without answering his question I extended my hand, introduced myself and asked him his name. Honestly, it was very difficult to understand Louis because he was slurring his speech. I did tell him that I didn't have any money for him but asked if I could pray with him which he agreed. If you're a Christian who is interested in helping the poor than you need to read this book. It will definitely broaden your perspective on how to truly help those in poverty. 

I also got to see my friend Suzanne who I met on the first day of the Mobile Prayer Station and was a listening ear for her. Life is burdensome and we all need to be pastorally cared for and shepherded. So, it was truly a blessing today to be able to pray and shepherd Suzanne. Next, Jim came riding up on his bike and stopped right in front of the sign and asked me what this was all about. I told him I was a Christian out here offering to pray with people. He asked if I could pray a blessing over him, so I spend a the next few minutes praying for blessing, favor and healing for Jim. Afterwards, he said he felt incredibly good and then rode off. He got about 30 feet away and turned back to me and waved. He did this twice. God had obviously touched him. 

Lastly, I got to spend a longer time talking with Marc, a Messianic Jew who found his Messiah Jesus 38 years ago. Some of the first words he spoke to me was to ask me if I was prophesying over people out here which I answered sometimes. We ended up talked about church, mission and the family of God. I did pray with him and he prayed with me and we both had some prophetic insights for each other. I know I probably say this about everyone I meet, but I'm glad I met Marc and hope to see him again. He even came with me to my church's Wednesday night prayer meeting at 7pm where naturally more prayer happened (of course). 

Now, I do want to spend some time thanking you for your prayer support in all of this. Jesus loves being with people and is actively answering your prayers. Please continue to pray that God would continue to encounter and touch people, that He would instill Divine curiosity in people and give them grace and courage to seek out the answers to the questions bubbling in their hearts and minds. Pray that I would make much of Jesus and that I wouldn't get in the way of our Father's heart towards His lost children.  I truly believe that God has amazing plans for each and everyone one of us, but we need to be actively praying His purposes into our lives. So, this is my prayer for you: I pray that Jesus would release in you the grace, passion and courage to step out of the boat to join Him as He walks on water in the storms of people's lives. In His Name I pray, Amen. 

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 11

It felt really good to be back on the street. Missing Friday (because of my Commencement rehearsal) and Saturday (because of my Commencement from Graduate school plus rain) was hard. There was a part of me that would have rather skipped my graduation in order to be on the street with the Mobile Prayer Station. I'm really enjoying serving the community in this way and kind of beginning to see myself as part of the community which is a neat feeling. 

For most of the day I quietly stood by the prayer sign, not really engaging too many people. It was sunny out today but extremely windy. There weren't that many people out and those who were seemed to be in a hurry on such a brisk day. My sense of the spiritual atmosphere of most people today was one of blasé. I think we are all tired of the bipolar weather and concerned about the rising gas prices. But, I also got the sense from the Holy Spirit that there are a lot of wounded people walking around which moved me to pray for hope, asking God to release hope into people's hearts and lives. Revival was also on the Father's heart, so I prayed for revival every hour I was out today. 

I did get to connect with Jeff who has been coming by from time to time to chat with me about faith and life. We talked about Rahm Emanuel's inauguration, the city of Chicago's financial state and basketball. At the very end of the day, I got to pray with Jeff, asking God to bring healing to his lungs and for the revitalization of his prayer life. I really don't think it was a coincidence for this because for most of the day I felt impressed by the LORD to pray for both Divine and spiritual curiosity, that as people saw the prayer sign that they would begin to reflect on the meaning and significance of prayer and the reality of a spiritual realm and of a Creator. 

I had a very good time conversing with Jesus today, I would literally ask Him to ignite spiritual curiosity and reflections on prayer in 15 minute blocks and as people walked by I was stirred in my spirit to thank the LORD for doing just this. But there were also times when someone walked by and I would want to thank the LORD for stirring their heart when the Holy Spirit restrained me from this because the LORD didn't do that for that person. But, then there were other times where I couldn't thank the LORD quick enough for leading people to reflect of prayer. Maybe this sounds silly to some, but when I talk to the LORD He talks back, not in a booming audible voice but more like a whisper or in my thoughts. Jesus tells us that He is the good Shepherd and that He knows His sheep and His sheep know His voice (John 10:1-18). It's true. 

Now, I know that it's not all about me, but I had a good time with the LORD as He lead me in how I should pray and intercede for people and the community. I am going to miss being out on the street this week because I am going to visit my brother and his family in San Antonio, Texas. I will be back in a week. I know life will go on, but like I said, I've really come to enjoy offering this service of prayer to the community. Not only is it a good time praying and talking with people, but it's also been a pretty sweet time listening and talking with the LORD and getting a greater sense of His heart towards His many lost children wandering about Wicker Park and also His desire for bringing revival and redemption to the community. So, it looks like the Mobile Prayer Station will be closed for a week, very sad. But please continue to pray for grace, open doors and freedom. Thank you!

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 10

Well the day started with Michael who passed me a couple times, on the second pass I engaged him in conversation. We talked about spirituality and faith. I explained to him my Christian faith and he talked about a more universal faith. He said he believed that Jesus was the Son of God, but also alluded to other religions leading towards heaven. I told him I respected his beliefs and that I wasn't out here to try and impose my beliefs on people, but about serving the community through prayer. I shared about my personal experiences with God and he asked if I could pray for a greater revelation of God for him and that he desired the Holy Spirit. So, I shared some Scripture with him and then prayed with him. It was good. 

Then, Niko and Kat came back around after they too had passed me by. Niko engaged me in conversation while Kat hung back. I explained to Niko my heart for praying for people and he asked if I could pray for his financial situation and some family concerns. I did and he left. But, about a minute later, they came back and his friend Kat asked if I could pray for her. I feel like Niko may have had some understanding of prayer, but Kat was definitely a newbie. It's pretty easy to tell at times because I get blank stares when I ask "how can I pray for you?" So I suggested blessing, hope or purpose in life and she said yes. I feel like my role out here is to love people of course, but to also be a shepherd to them which I really enjoy. 

Then, my friend Tyler showed up and hung out for the day and over the next hour or so we had the opportunity to pray with another 6 people. We prayed for clarity and direction for school for Jenny, favor and revelation of God for a group of friends Stephanie, Bridget and Vivian, and healing and deliverance for Ken and his wife. God also gave Tyler some prophetic words for a couple people. Now, a very cool moment happened when Joshua, my friend from the other day came by and literally began to prophesy over Tyler. So very cool! It was definitely on time for Tyler. This is why I love when people come to hang out at the Mobile Prayer Station. God shows up and not only will you get to pray and minister to people but God has been speaking to those that have shown up. My friend Nate had a God appointment when he came by and now Tyler too. I love it! 

On further reflection, I feel like when other people join me at the Mobile Prayer Station it's like there is a shift that happens because more spiritual gifts are added to the mix and God brings people to be blessed by these gifts. Not only this, but there is definitely a lot more going on then meets the eye. Only God knows all that is happening, but I know that God is definitely stirring people's heart through the Mobile Prayer Station. God is moving and I feel like a lot has to do with the prayer support of my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. So, if that is you, thank you for your faithfulness to Jesus and for interceding for me and the people who are coming for prayer. God is answering your prayers and is opening doors with people. I am definitely amazed at how many people engaged us in conversation today. Though we got to prayer with roughly 10 people today, I must have talked with at least 10 more just about life. Thank you Jesus for Your strength, courage and faithfulness! 

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 9

I've come to realize that everyday is going to be different. I say this because there really is such a diverse collection of people who live in the Wicker Park area and I see most of them. Add to this reality the fact that people are all at different places in both faith and life and well needless to say, "Everyday is an adventure!" For the most part being out on the street isn't as confrontational as you may think. Most people are more curious than anything else. Sure, there are those who are a bit more guarded and apprehensive and those who think I'm a fool for being out there, even those who are offended by my very presence on the street. I find it hardest to connect and interact with people who have been hurt or burned by the church. I am praying that as I am being obedient to the LORD in being available to Him and the community for prayer, He will bring healing to people and reignite hope in the community. 

Despite the dark and glooming day, I still got to pray with Jeff, who has 4 years sobriety under his belt. I told him I have 8 years clean time. It was very cool talking with him, he's an older gentlemen maybe in his late early 60s. He shared some of his life journey with me and I did the same. He was on his way to a doctor's appointment because he has about 60% lung capacity from 40 years of smoking. I asked if I could pray and ask God to heal his lungs which he said yes. After praying, he said that he lives right across the street and said that if I'm out tomorrow he'll come by to talk and have me pray for him again. I love it! Building bridges with people in the community one relationship at a time (sounds catchy, I must have heard that somewhere at sometime). Anyways, that's all any of us can do. I truly believe that the more that we step out in love and obedience, the more God will bless the work of our hands. 

There is a great harvest coming, but this means that we all need to do our part in tilling the soil and sowing seed. It's through intercessory prayer that we till the soil of both the community and people's hearts. And it's through being in relationship that we are given the opportunity to sow seeds of faith, hope and love. So this is my prayer: that the God of the universe who moved heaven and earth in order to be in relationship with us by allowing His Son Jesus to come and die on a cross for our sins would actively anoint and empower His children to do the work of His Kingdom. Holy Spirit we ask that You would begin simplifying our lives, making us more available to the LORD to do what He has placed on our hearts to do. In Jesus' Name, Amen. 

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 8

I was once again amazed by God's grace today. So, my friend Nate joined me for about an hour today and while he was there we met two women, Lucy and Ana, who stayed in a nearby apartment complex that my church has been interested in blessing and serving. Not only did we get to pray with them, but Lucy was the woman who, up until a few years ago, organized the activities for the seniors who lived in the building which is exactly what my church has been interested in doing. After brainstorming ideas with her, Lucy gave Nate her contact info. Talk about a God orchestrated appointment. So cool! 

Even though the weather was so wonderfully warm today, some people I encountered still had storm clouds looming over their lives. Case and point, I give you Edwin and Ada who are going through quite a bit of financial stress and anxiety in their lives right now. They actually walked past me and came back around to me. After saying hi to them, the very first thing Edwin said to me was "I wish I could find $1000 on the ground right now." We talked for a little while, but mostly I just listened both to Edwin and Ada, but also to the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of God helps to highlight which burdens I need to focus on in prayer and will oftentimes give revelation of what may be the underlying cause while also giving me pictures of hope to share. For Edwin and Ada, God let them know that He sees them and is concerned that they are distressed. 

A new comer today was Larry who complimented me on my burnt orange Converse high tops and asked me what I paid for them. We then proceeded to talk about where to find Converse Allstars at a low price which lead to him talking about why he loves wearing Converse low tops because of an old ankle injury that gets swollen from time to time. Seeing an opportunity, I told him why I was out on the street and asked if I could pray with him and ask God to bring healing to his ankle. He said "yes" and we prayed while bumping fists. I love the diversity of people's personalities and style. I also prayed for blessing and favor over Larry's life. There was no immediate healing that happened, but I'm still glad I asked God for healing for Larry because if we don't pray for healing, healing will never happen. But if we do there is a chance that God will heal. So, no matter the results, I never regret praying for healing for someone. 

Finally, my new friend Lao, the ice cream vender, was out today. We talked about faith while eating one of his very tasty ice cream pops. He said that he has no faith, but that he believed in a higher power. I told him I was a Christian and he stated that he thinks that people humanize God too much and that he has a problem with that. What I was discerning from Lao was that this "higher power" of his was an impersonal being, a nebulous intangible power. So, I ended up sharing my testimony with him and my own personally encounters with God. I shared that it's not only about reading about God in the bible, but also about personally experiencing Him; that knowing God is both understanding and experience. His eyes popped open and I could tell he was interested in encountering and experiencing God. So, I prayed with Lao, asking God "If you are real God, reveal Yourself to Lao." A very simply prayer, but one filled with revelation and power. I have a feeling that my conversations with Lao about God are only just beginning and am looking forward to engaging with him more on the things of faith and life.

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 7

The weather today ended up being pretty phenomenal. When I first arrived at the park (4:00pm) it actually started drizzling a little. But, after about 10 minutes it stopped and the sun came out and it was simply gorgeous. Right after I set up, my friend Mat came walking across the street. It was definitely a nice surprise. We talked for a bit and he ended up praying for me. It was very encouraging. If you haven't noticed yet, I love prayer! Even while we were talking, Mat got a sense of something from God and ended up prayerfully walking around the perimeter of the park. I'm telling you, God is in this and if you stop by you will experience His presence.  

Today, was filled with lots of "hellos" and "what's ups." I think people may be getting used to me or maybe I'm just getting used to being on the street or may be God is showing me grace and giving me favor. It's mostly likely all of the above. Regardless, I am beginning to see some familiar faces. I got to pray with Suzanne again, whom I prayed with last week which was really encouraging because I am interested in building bridges and relationships with people in the community. Win. There were also people who remembered me from last week and said he to me with that tone of familiarity. Double win. 

People are getting used to me. I feel like this is due to the fact that I am being more light than heat. What the LORD has been continually impressing on me is that I am here to provide a service for the community. I'm not trying to preach at people or convert people or even force prayer on people (heat), what I'm doing is offering people a prayer service and if they are in need of prayer I am making myself available to pray with them (light). That is all. Now maybe other people have different understandings of what it means to be a light in the world, for me it means serving the world and offering them what I feel is most valuable to me: prayer. Prayer is the opportunity to allow God love on us. And at the end of the day that's my heart's desire that people would be touched by the love of God. If you're in the area, come by and see me! I've been tweeting the times I'm out there, so following me on Twitter. I will be on the corner of Damen and Wicker Park Avenue. You can't miss me, I'll be the one by the sign...

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 6

So, this is where I stood today, just outside the fencing around Wicker Park. It was a very overcast day. The forecast was for rain but not until later in the afternoon, so I setup around 1:00pm. It's interesting, right when I woke up this morning, I heard the Holy Spirit tell me that I needed to be out on the street today. So, after my morning meeting, I drove towards Wicker Park. I typically take the 'L' train but today I had access to a car so I drove. 

To be honest, I was hesitant in going, but there was this urgency that rose up inside of me and compelled me to drive to the park. Even after finding free parking less than half a block away (which was amazing) I sat in the car just waiting. I kept looking at the overcast sky and telling myself it's gonna rain, I should just go home. I did this for around 15 minutes, but after checking like two different weather sites on my iPhone and watching the sky in the distance. I grabbed the sign and headed towards the park. The thought came to my mind, even if I'm out here for only an hour, it's still worth it.

Not five minutes after I set up a guy comes up to me and asks, "So, how's this prayer thing work?" After some introductions, I told Ryle that "I'm out here offering prayer for people, can I pray for you?" He said "Yes" and started to walk away, but I stopped him and said "Can I pray for you now?" Again, he said "Yes." I could tell that he was kind of new to this whole prayer thing, but God's grace covered us and disarmed the awkwardness. So, I told him I could pray a blessing over him or for financial breakthrough and he said, "No, just a blessing would be good." So, I ended up praying for God to bless him and to give him favor and for God to reveal to Ryle His heart of goodness, love and delight towards him. When I was done, he said, "Thanks" and then headed off, coffee in hand.

Even though I was slow in getting going, having such good reception right from the start helped settle my heart and get me in the game, so to speak. I didn't do any Bible reading today, but rather just smiled and said hi to people walking by. Surprisingly, there were quite a few people out and everyone was pretty open and friendly. I think it was close to half past 2:00pm when Joshua came walking up and started asking me questions like, "So, what kind of prayer are you offering?" and "Who are you praying to?" I told him flat out that I am praying to God through Jesus Christ. His face lit up and he gave a double fist bump and said, "Alright, just making sure we're on the same page." He asked we where I attended church and said he attends Bill Winston's church Living Word Christian Center in Forest Park, IL. 

Now Joshua has a very interesting story, he feels called to be among the homeless. I didn't quite get all the details, but from what I gathered, he has spent the last 30 nights on the streets with the homeless. He feels called to be a light to them and help them in whatever way he can. Man, let me tell you God showed up and we had such an anointed conversation. Jesus was definitely in our midst. Personally, when he was talking, wisdom, discernment and prophetic insights were coming to me clear as day. So amazing. We talked for about a half hour and then I prayed for him. Have you ever had one of those moments where the clarity and direction of prayer was so evident? Well that's how the prayer time went. After I prayed, he prayed for me and everything he prayed for was exactly what the Holy Spirit was impressing on my heart in the past hour. Very cool.

Then it started raining and we said our good-byes and I packed up to go. But, before Joshua left he came over to me and literally poked me and said, "I just wanted to make sure you were real and not an angel because everything you said to me and prayed for me was exactly what I needed to hear from God." Now, I knew why the Holy Spirit told me right when I woke up this morning that I needed to be out on the street today. It was for Joshua. I gave him one of my personal 420 Prayer Movement cards hoping to further reinforce to him that I wasn't an angel, but a man just like him. I'm so glad that I got to meet Joshua today and I have a feeling (no, I know) that Jesus is going to great Kingdom things through Joshua because he has such a tender heart towards our Lord.

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 5

Hmmm, where to begin? Well, the day started with me being asked to leave the Chicago Park District area. Apparently, my City of Chicago street performer permit is not valid on Park District grounds. So, the "Man" :o) told me to move outside of the fencing which I did. I actually ended up moving to where I first setup on Day 1. No big deal. Honestly, I moved a little into the park area because I was feeling a bit shy and didn't want to be on the corner where everybody could see me. But, oh well. So there I stayed, on the corner for all to see. 

I spent the day reading through Isaiah while occasionally saying hi to people. I am still trying to get a feel for my role in all of this. Right now, I feel like all I'm suppose to do is offer prayer services to the community. This means I'm not preaching at people or pushing prayer on them, but I'm just making myself available to them if they are in need of prayer. Now, this may change as the days and weeks go by and I'm ok with that, but right now I feel like I am just to be an available presence of prayer.

So, today I got to speak in length about church and mission with Scott Venable the pastor of Mosaic Church which just so happens to be a newer church plant that will begin meeting in the field house of Wicker Park. Before we parted ways, I got to pray for vision, blessing and the release of the five fold ministry (apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacher) for him and his church. Shortly after he left, I got to pray for the FedEx guy who pulled up to make a delivery. On the way to his delivery he gave me a thumbs up and after he made his delivery I asked him if I could pray for him which was definitely a first for me. Praying for the FedEx guy that is. Pretty cool. 

The rest of the day was pretty uneventful. I've noticed that breaking up my time between smiling and greeting people with reading the Bible is helpful. I feel like people are more receptive of my presence when they see me reading the Bible. It's like I'm less intimidating to them. Oftentimes, while I'm reading the bible I'll hear people reading the sign aloud and when I look up and they'll actually say hi to me. But, when I'm just standing there, people seem to be a bit more guarded and leery of me. I'm definitely learning something new everyday about God, myself, people and the mission. Yup, I am on an adventure that is filled with the good, the bad and the ugly. 

I did want to spend some time describing the Divine appointment I had at the end of the day. It was with this woman Renise. She came beelining for me and begin engaging me in conversation. She asked what church I went to and then proclaimed "God's got you on the front lines." She then proceeded to tell me these amazing stories of when God used her for a street prayer ministry where gang bangers would literally laid down their guns on the street and come for prayer. Very cool stuff. We must've talked for over an hour. Long story short, she prayed for me and then I prayed for her. She prayed about things that reconfirmed what God had already spoken to me in the past and I felt like God gave me some prophetic insights for her. It was definitely a God moment. I told her I was going to try and be in this area for the summer and she said she'd try and join me when she could (one of her kids goes to the A.N. Priztker school right down the street). What was so endearing to me about all of this was the fact that God knew that I was having a a rough couple days and thought enough of it to actually send someone to come pray, encourage and build up my faith. So, thank you for your prayers. God is answering!

HILLSONG: one desire

This is my heart's cry. Not only do I want to be with Jesus in Heaven after I leave this earth, but I also want to be with Him as I live and breath in this world. I want to be where He is healing, saving, redeeming and restoring all the lost children of God. You see, Jesus did all of these things with me, He has healed and continues to heal me physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. He has also delivered me from a life of addictions and is even now redeeming the lost years of my past as He restores my broken life. If you ask me why I do the things that I do, I would tell you that it is the love of Jesus that compels me to live the life that I do. I have been so touched by the love of God and His love has forever changed me. I was once lost in a lust-filled angry selfish world, but now I am found in the love, joy and peace of Heaven. 

So this is my prayer: I pray that the God of the universe would touch your life with His love, joy and peace, that He would release the hope of the Gospel of Jesus Christ into your life, that His Kingdom of light would break through the darkness that clouds your life and that He would bring healing to your heart. In Jesus Name, Amen. 

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 4

Today there weren't that many people walking around today which I'm thinking may have been due to the chance for scattered showers weather forecast. Needless to say, I was kind of glad there weren't that many people out today because I felt a lot of hostility from people which was a bit discouraging. Now, I know that this is all part of the package of this street prayer ministry and I'm ok with that, but it still doesn't take away the sting. It was like nobody was even slightly interested in even saying hi to me. I was ignored most of the time. I even got some sneers and eyes rolled at me today. One man had to forcibly restrain himself from just going off on me. Thankfully by God's grace, I just smiled and wished him a wonderful day which seemed to really throw him off balance. Proverbs 15:1 comes to mind, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."  

So, I spend much of the day with my head buried in the bible reading through the middle part of Isaiah. It was good because I found refuge and comfort in God's Word that reminded me that God is the Creator of the universe (Isaiah 42:5) and that there is no reason to be afraid because He is with me (Isaiah 43:5; 44:8), He is Savior (Isaiah 43:11) and that no one can snatch anyone out of His hand (Isaiah 43:13). Thank you Lord. I did pray for people today, and what I really felt impressed to pray for the people I saw was for the revelation of Christ. Over and over again, person after person, I was moved to pray for the revelation of Christ to be birthed in people's hearts which may be telling of the people I encountered today maybe even the spiritual condition of the Wicker Park area at large.

I find what happened today interested because I spent the first part of my time today praying for revival. More specifically, I prayed against the principalities of lust, drunkenness, greed, anger and hate. I prayed that God would release hope into the area where there was hopelessness, love where there was hate and peace where there was anger. So, maybe it's no surprise that in engaging with the darkness of over this area of the city, I was confronted with opposition and hostility. Maybe I'm over spiritualizing all of this, but I tell you, when I left the park I literally had my tail between my legs, that's how discouraged I felt. It was like I couldn't get away from that area fast enough. I was even telling myself that I hope it rains tomorrow so that I wouldn't have to come out. But, God's faithful and I believe it is through answering people's prayers that I have been renewed. So, thank you for your prayers. I am feeling much better and yes I will be heading back out tomorrow.

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 3

After yesterday's conversation with God in the importance of praying for the people I see walking by because many of them have never ever been prayed for before, I started the day with a renewed passion for intercessory prayer. But, I was deeply challenged today in this. Let me explain, I love to pray out loud. That's how I typically pray these days. I truly believe there is power in speaking prayers aloud. I mean God Himself spoke the universe into existence (Genesis 1). Also, when we speak our prayers aloud, we are literally engaging in spiritual warfare with the spiritual dark forces in the world. 

But, that's not why I was challenged today. I was challenged today in not wanting to look like a crazy person. Remember the story of Hannah in 1 Samuel 1? If not, here's a short recap, Hannah goes to the temple to pray that God would bless her with a son. Well, Eli the priest sees her and thinks that she's talking to herself and accuses her of being drunk. Now, imagine you see some "religious" person standing on the corner talking aloud with nobody around (without a bluetooth or headphones). I'm thinking fanatic or crazy may come to mind. So, here I am with this burning desire to pray for people, but having to do it without speaking. Don't get me wrong I do also pray quietly to myself at times, but when it comes to intercession, proclaiming it out loud is what I prefer. Anyways, I am learning. 

For most of the day, I felt like I was walking a tightrope. I felt caught between the tension of wanting to love and pray with people but not wanting to be too pushy about it. Today was a day where I felt in my spirit the push back from people for being out here. What I kept sensing from more than a few people (and I believe I will continue to sense this) is this: "Oh, here's yet another Christian who's trying to force his beliefs on me." I can literally see some of them tense up as they come near me, even before I say anything. It's like their waiting for me to yell at them or something. So, most of the time I've been just smiling and saying hi to people. I mean I do have the sign so they know why I'm there and I am planning on having the Mobile Prayer Station there for the summer, so I feel like I need to focus on building bridges with people. Again, it's gonna be a learning experience in understanding what it means to be the Lord's gospel light of love for this community. 

Now don't get me wrong, I actually really enjoy being out here. I feel like I am offering a vital service to the community. In fact, I got to pray for three people today, Dave, Christy and Jamie. All of whom were at different places in faith and life. Christy and Jamie had a faith, Dave did not. I enjoyed speaking and praying with all three of them. But, I must always be aware of the reality that we are all journeying through life and that people are gonna be at all sorts of different places. What I am realizing is that there are a lot of people who really have no concept of God, let alone prayer or they've been terribly hurt by the church or other Christians. But at the end of the day, I'm convinced that it's not so much about worrying about whether or not I'm offending people, but about having the patience, tenacity and desire to love and continue to love people regardless of how they may treat me. I mean aren't those Jesus' words: "But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you" (Matthew 5:44 NIV). 

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 2

Today was more about me than others. I was dragging my feet today because it was pretty chilly out. But then I heard the Lord ask me: "Are you a fair-weather Christian?" Now I know this could have had a variety of meanings, for my situation it seemed to touch on both the physical (the weather) and the spiritual (commitment and obedience). You see, when the Lord first gave me the vision for the Mobile Prayer Station, I had a strong impression that it was to be a daily ministry. At the heart of the ministry is to make prayer available to the lost children of God by going into their midst. Prayer has been described many ways, but I believe the best description of prayer is this: spending time with God and allowing Him to lavish His grace and love upon you. From the beginning that has always been my sense of God's heart in all of this. He wants to touch people through me with His love and grace.

To be honest there weren't many people out today because of the weather. But of the few people I saw, I prayed for, not with but for. I need to confess something, I am sometimes afraid of getting prophetic revelations from God because I'm afraid of the responsibility of stewarding these revelations. But the more I thought this through, the more I begin to see the foolishness of my ways. I felt the Holy Spirit lovingly nudge me through this by asking me "Who are you to reject revelation from God?" Let me tell you, in that moment all of my wishy-washiness about receiving prophetic revelation from God dissipated. The Holy Spirit was right (of course), if the God of the universe desires to reveal things to me, I best listen. So after repenting for my fear and foolishness I begin listening and asking God for prophetic revelation about the people walking by. So for the rest of time, God spoke and I prayed.

Furthermore, the Holy Spirit reminded me of something He spoke to me many years ago. Roughly around 8 years ago, I was stopped at a red light while driving my car. Now, as I was watching this lady walk cross the street, the Spirit of God overwhelmed me with an urgency to pray for this woman and I quote the Spirit's voice in verbatim here: "No one has ever prayed for her, neither her name nor her image has ever been brought before the throne of God." When I heard this, my heart broke. Needless to say, I couldn't begin to pray for her fast enough.

Now even though I didn't get to pray with anyone today. I did get to pray for quite a few people and I am betting that for many of them it may have been the very first time their image was ever brought before the throne of God. Think about this reality as you spend your day, of the many people you will see, even talk to today how many of them do you think have never ever been prayed for? How many of them have never had their name or image brought before God's throne of grace? You could be the first. "Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." (Hebrews 4:16 NLT)

Mobile Prayer Station: DAY 1

Today marks Day 1 of the Mobile Prayer Station. I ended up setup the prayer sign at the corner of Damen & Wicker Park Avenue right at one of the entrances into Wicker Park. I arrived around 3:30pm and stood nervously wondering what would become of the next few hours. So, I said a quick prayer for the courage to unpack the sign. Immediately, I felt God's peace and slowly setup the sign when two skateboarders came rolling up.  One of them looked at the sign, then at me and said, "I'm encouraged already." I couldn't have asked for a better launch. But, it gets better. 

Right after the kids left, an ice cream vender came by and we started chatting. It wasn't long before he shared that he was just beginning his ice cream business. While we were talking two girls came and bought some ice cream from him. Lao was very friendly and welcoming. After the sale, Lao asked me what the sign was all about and I told him that I was here to pray for people. He asked me how it worked (I could tell he was interested). So, I told him that I could ask God to bless his new business and family which I ended up doing. I could tell he was nervous, but God's presence and grace helped to ease the awkwardness. Afterward, Lao went on his merry way.

Over the next hour, I smiled and said hi to people. I really don't think people knew how to react. They'd read the sign, looked at me and then back to the sign. I got all kinds of reactions from smiles to confused looks to stonefaced stares. Mark was this 10 year old boy who was riding his Razor scooter round and round the park. He must have pasted me a half dozen times. Each time saying hi. Finally, he stopped and all he said was "hope?" I told I could pray for hope for him and he said "ok" so I did. He bowed his head with me and everything and then he was off again. 

Next, a homeless woman named Denise came and we sat on the near by bench for awhile and talked about her family. She shared her heart with me and I prayed for her. If you're reading this please remember the Weeks family in your prayers. They truly need God to come and rescue them from addiction. I have a feeling that I will be seeing lots of Denise over the next few weeks. Later on, one of her friends Maurice came rolling over in his wheelchair and stopped right in front of my sign and asked me to pray a blessing for Osama Bin Laden. I told him sure, but  that I'd rather pray a blessing over him. He then proceeded to press me on why I didn't want to pray for Osama which I replied I'll pray for both of you. So, I prayed a blessing over Osama Bin Laden's family and asked God to bring healing and redemption to them and then prayed a blessing over Maurice. He thanked me and rolled off. 

The last woman I had the privilege to pray for was Suzanne. She came beelining for me from across the street. She stood right in front of me and said, "I could so use some encouragement right now" so we talked for a little. I asked her how I could pray and she shared her day with me. I prayed for her and then we talked some more. And I prayed for her again. She cried and then she smiled. God showed up. We ended up talking for at least 20 minutes until she had to leave to got pick up her two kids from daycare.

I ended up leaving around 6:40pm. I was planning on staying until 7:00pm, but the wind kicked up something fierce and it got extremely chilly. I am looking forward to returning to the same spot tomorrow. I think people just need to get used to me being there. I was blessed by God today to be able to pray with 5 people, but really was given the opportunity to pray for dozens upon dozens of people as they walked by. What the Holy Spirit impressed upon me most was to pray for the Father's love to be released into people's lives and for the healing of their  wounded, broken and beat-up hearts. "Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sin" (1 Peter 4:8 NLT).