Real Help for The Homeless and our Call To Real Help

I have worked with helping others find solutions to their needs for over 40 years now, starting as a young man, I worked with my uncle who was severely injured while in the Army. As a result of my uncle's injury, (BTW I lived most of the time with my grandparents who cared for him) which consisted of blindness, traumatic brain injury and later on the development of schizo-affective disorder, I was able to work with him to  learn simple basic things which made it easier on others and him that few at the time thought possible. I also worked professionally with the homeless, including those with mental illness in areas of rehabilitation as an Executive Director and Consultant for over 15 years and a total now of over 30 years in all capacities. It is a subject I know something about. The bottom line, I want to communicate to you that in my experiences, I have not just worked with the homeless but especially the homeless many think there is little hope for. I think there is hope, a solution to the issue of homelessness and poverty in America and ultimately around the world but I can only speak of my experiences and observations in America which include all sectors of America, from the South to the North East, the Southwest to the Plains and from the West Coast to the Northwest. I believe the universal solution to help all  people is the same. What I am going to say will shock some, make some angry and maybe, just maybe open the eyes of others.

Here is an unfortunate truth, dollars upon dollars have been thrown at the issue of homelessness. This

has not resolved the problem. Unfortunately, more private and public dollars than ever are being thrown at the issue of poverty and homelessness and little if anything is improving to in my opinion justify the cost. There has to be a better answer. I unfortunately not only speak from a professional perspective, I am also speaking from a position of experience. I was for over 2 years, by the definition of homelessness, homeless. I lived in a YMCA transient shelter when I married my wife and completed High School while living there prior to that. I write about these experiences in my book The Keystone Kid and those experiences are not exaggerated, they are as real and accurate as I can possibly record. While the book deals with various issues I dealt with, the answer to the problem is the same for all situations I had to endure in my own life. I believe now, as I have believed for some time, the answer is the same for most on the streets. I know because where I have seen real change come about over the many years of my work is the same in the overwhelming majority of people.

Are you ready for the number one way that we as a society, caregivers, and helpers in particular can make a change? Here you go, to know (for to know gives the ability to show change and model what needs to be changed best) and follow, (in all ways,) the person of Jesus, and then from that point, introduce Jesus to those we work with.

The Bible is very clear on this subject, and I have seen it from experience to be true in life. "What will you gain, if you own the whole world but destroy yourself? What would you give to get back your soul?" Things are not the solution to helping someone want to change. There is a spiritual component within each of us, that unless filled with the Spirit of God will not have an understanding or desire to change or find a place of peace within ones own spiritual needs.  I am honored and pleased to say, it is one of the things that makes the ministry I do and the work Mosaic is involved in different than many others. I am thankful that I am aware of other ministries doing the same thing and they have been things that have helped direct me in the work I believe is the work of God. This has been the thing I have seen be the most effective in bringing about change to the poor and the homelessness issues in American.

One of the things I have seen and believe to be the number one problem amongst the homeless is the lack of hope. Many don't believe things can and will get better. Providers believe they know what is best and at best offer solutions that are temporary and do not last. It is so bad in some circles that some call themselves ministry and either the Jesus that is introduced is diluted at best and in many instances are 'Ministries' that never introduces people to Jesus. I see this done by some who are flat out lying and deceive. They say and do things that are clearly not true, while promoting themselves. They supposedly place hundreds of homeless people in housing when I doubt they could show 5 actual people where they have done so and it has lasted. Or supposedly feeding tens of thousands of the homeless when there are less than 2,000 homeless people in their community. Of course with groups like this, it is easy to get a large numbers of people to support you but that support is based off of lies. It is imperative that one does the research to verify the facts. When it is done one can clearly see indiscretions in things like finance and more with numerous businesses in the community but it is sometimes so much easier to believe the lies. Then there are so called ministries that have personal indiscretions ranging from marital infidelity, leadership issues, untrue accusations and much more. I agree it is imperative to get the log out of ones own eye before worrying about the speck in another's, but I am not speaking about specs here, I am speaking about logs and making sure that those who say they do ministry follow the Biblical expectations of what the Bible calls ministry, otherwise it is not ministry it is a facade masquerading as ministry. There are clearly higher expectations for Biblical leadership and it is imperative that we follow that leadership and direction. If doing that, it becomes clear, it is about Jesus.

What is it Jesus does that some never take into consideration? It is quite simple, the very nature of God we see from the Old Testament through the New Testament is the concept of hope that comes from knowing and being in relationship with God, that only comes through Jesus. The Bible speaks hundreds of times on this subject. There are verses like the following:

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. - Jeremiah 29:11

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. - Hebrews 11:1

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. - 1 Peter 3:15

For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. - Romans 15:4

I could go on and on, like I said, there are literally hundreds of verses that deal with the subject of hope. I beg the question: how is hope instilled amongst the poor, the homeless or anyone when the need for Jesus is left out of the solution all together? The answer is simple, the evidence shows, it isn't. This is one of the primary reasons we see the homeless saying things like, "I have no desire to get off the streets, people are giving me everything I need," or, "I don't want help, I have no obligations or responsibilities on the street," to most recently, "Everything I need is given to me, I prefer to use my money for my drugs and whores." I beg another question, is it possible, that in the do-gooders intent that we have failed doing good and arrived at the place were we enable people more than help them? This is both a spiritual and a political problem, spiritual because Jesus and God has a purpose for each of us beyond just surviving and a political agenda that seems to be pressed at times that sees it as the governments responsibility to take care of those who are incapable of taking care of themselves. This is a Communist or Socialist perspective. The danger here is that while it is true there will be a segment of society who will always need help, it is clear to me from my observations and experiences, that we are leading others into that place that are capable to find that hope but have either given up on life by surrendering to alcohol and drugs, (of which many of the things that are given are sold to buy more drugs and alcohol.) or are some really incapable of helping themselves, at which point some others have less resources being provided to help those such as those with severe mental illnesses. The bottom line is this is quite possible and I believe likely. Many of the providers or those seeking to do good may be doing more harm than good because they leave out the one instrument of change that I know gives hope, God.

Understand, I am not trying to make  blanket generalizations.  There are always  exceptions but they are exceptions, not solutions. In this whole dilemma, not only should the mistakes of what I call the do gooders be addressed but the failure of the Church in large, and Christian community must also be addressed. Many churches have gotten caught up in political dogmas to the point that they have forgotten about the missional expectations of Jesus. Many do good once a year, say at Christmas, but what do we do all of the year to carry out this mission? I am asking the church to consider something, something I would love to do and be a part of but there are people in your communities who could do this as well. Look at ways you can serve the homeless and the poor, while at the same time, having crusades (not revivals but crusades where the Gospel of Jesus is clearly preached) to this population. Then take on the responsibility of the Church to those who have converted. Take them under our wings, disciple them and implement the whole of the following passages of scripture:

 Acts 2: 42-47: (42) They spent their time learning from the apostles, and they were like family to each other. They also broke bread and prayed together.

(43) Everyone was amazed by the many miracles and wonders that the apostles worked. (44) All the Lord’s followers often met together, and they shared everything they had. (45) They would sell their property and possessions and give the money to whoever needed it. (46) Day after day they met together in the temple. They broke bread together in different homes and shared their food happily and freely, (47) while praising God. Everyone liked them, and each day the Lord added to their group others who were being saved

And,

Acts 4: 32- 37: (32) The group of followers all felt the same way about everything. None of them claimed that their possessions were their own, and they shared everything they had with each other. (33) In a powerful way the apostles told everyone that the Lord Jesus was now alive. God greatly blessed his followers, (34) and no one went in need of anything. Everyone who owned land or houses would sell them and bring the money (35) to the apostles. Then they would give the money to anyone who needed it.

(36-37) Joseph was one of the followers who had sold a piece of property and brought the money to the apostles. He was a Levite from Cyprus, and the apostles called him Barnabas, which means “one who encourages others.”

Here is the reality as I see it, until the do gooders start introducing Jesus with integrity or are at the least working with those who are faithful to this need and the Church and Christians do their part, then as much as I hate to say it, while some good may be done, in the overall scheme of things, we are may be wasting our time. It is my desire that we do what we should be doing. Some say the Bible addresses over 2,000 times the needs of the poor and needy, the orphan and the widow. While I am not sure if it is that many times, it is clear it is an awful lot and the Church needs to be doing the work God. It has always dumbfounded me, the church spends so much time on subjects like abortion, which should be addressed but seems to ignore the expectations of caring for the poor and needy which are so strongly emphasized in scripture. The bottom line for many problems including both of these, the answer is Jesus but how can people hear if the followers of Christ don't take Biblical teachings seriously and recognize that Jesus is exactly who he said he was, (...no one goes to the Father in Heaven except through me.) and emphasizes those points and takes and illustrates that message of hope to them?

Today I implore three groups: 1) There are those who deceive, they are in my view, evil and God will judge them harshly for their actions. I believe they should be exposed for their deceit. 2) There are others who just don't know. They have taken seriously their work but never seriously taken the message of hope that comes through Christ seriously. They wonder why they see little or no results, stay discouraged or know in their hearts they want so much more for those they legitimately love and care for. To those individuals, surrender to Jesus, I would love to be one of those who introduces you to him, simply contact me at mike@furches.org or Facebook or other forms and I will gladly walk you through the process. 3) There is another challenge, and challenge to Christians and The Church who are not doing their part. I so realize many are doing their part. There are great churches doing great work, seeing wonderful results and many Christians individually doing their part, but, for churches and Christians who aren't, get busy. Ask for forgiveness and do your part in reaching one of the great mission fields on the earth. Don't just stop at a conversion, we are not called from a Biblical perspective to just make converts, we are called to make disciples. Don't settle for anything else. We are to be a part of the process where people are sold out Jesus Freaks and fully life long persons committed to Jesus, even until the point of death. We are called to do the work of Jesus on this earth, including an area strongly emphasized in scripture, serving, reaching and seeing the salvation of the poor and needy, orphan, widow, tax collector, whosoever. Anything less is not what God has called us to do.

Addendum added 7/20/2021

It is so easy in today's world to give quickly and truthfully, without thought. I find issue with this as one who is involved in ministry for over 40 years now, who also has such a hard and difficult time surviving, yet, still finding ways to try and help. Even last night, giving counsel on things like suicide emergency assistance to looking at solutions to homelessness. The big ministries who sometimes do very little have great ad campaigns to keep the cash flowing. 

As a recent example, and this one will be controversial,  there seems to be quick solutions for homeless issues that really do not seriously take into consideration the long term needs of the homeless, which by the way encompasses, folks who have lost jobs, have serious substance abuse problems or mental illnesses with various disorders that impact people in different ways. There seems to be this idea that we can just convert shopping centers, buy homes and other things that solves the homeless problems, it is in a way, a societal answer that people often make who are unwilling or unknowing of the ultimate needs of the individuals. The sad truth is, these solutions in the long run, do a great job at keeping the homeless homeless and dependent on society. The life changing concepts are critical to bring about if we genuinely want to see lives changed. While the Bible clearly states, we will always have the poor among us, we are also obligated to do more than just offer lip service. I am reminded of the passage of scripture that clearly says, if we see someone in need, and have the  means to help them and don't we can't say we have the love of God within us, we don't.  Of course we think that money is always the answer to issues, and that is a part of it, but often times the means of helping someone in need requires more than just money. 

As an example to the above, my nephew in Pensacola Florida has started a ministry where he gets old beat up bicycles, fixes them up and has a process to help the homeless with a form of transportation by having a bicycle. A great ministry that is addressing a specific need. There are questions though in the total scheme of things that should be understood where others in the church could come in and help. What for example if someone has a job? A bicycle could be of a great help, but, they don't know how to ride a bicycle?  Sometimes the solution is a great solution but someone may need help in order to obtain that solution. My nephew has done a great job at doing what he does, and then working with others to provide other helps as they can.

When I was running Mosaic as a downtown ministry we were the largest daily provider of services to the homeless in Wichita. We didn't charge or bill for those services so money was an issue. I refused a salary so we could do that ministry. We did something unique though, we didn't just serve coffee, we served the best coffee, we didn't just serve food, we cooked and served the best food. We didn't just give clothes, we gave the best clothes.  You see it is so easy to give dented cans, cheap hand me downs and more, heck, we even had someone once donate clothes that had been soiled by cats, like this was a gift out of love.  Why give second best when we are called to follow Christ who gave His best and His all?

The above, with lack of training, living skills education and long term help is one of the issues I have with the tiny homes approach many are following for the homeless. We have to make sure appropriate training that incarnates people back into society, that enables the best possible chance of success are the models we follow. Creating villages for the homeless people with tiny houses is segregation and I believe provides the dented cans approach to and for the homeless and makes it easy to throw money away in a quick way that in reality, has little positive benefit other than getting people, temporarily off the streets. It is certain, without the proper instruction, training and assistance, that I believe ultimately should include Christ, the solution is in fact, temporary as the person will certainly end back on the streets without that hand up, not a hand out, and walking alongside of and with, as opposed to sending someplace to put out of mind and out of site. In many ways, this is no different than the position some municipalities have taken by doing things like buying bus tickets for the homeless to send them to another city. 

Am I saying things like Tiny Homes or other assistance of this nature is all bad?  NO! I am saying that there has to be far more and in all things, my self esteem and self worth while homeless would have been built far better and quicker by a chance to be reintroduced into the hope that comes from Christ, of the possibility of someday having my own real apartment and or house. The dreams and asperations of others are often times built by the belief others have in them. If a person thinks others think they are only deserving of a tiny home, they will have tiny dreams and asperations. Dream big, for we serve a big God. If used, emphasized and shown that it is only a stepping stone done the right way, well then, do it the right way and let the person know it is a process to their larger dreams. That isn't how it's being done though that I have seen. It is more of a out of mind, out of site, and I don't have to do as much that way approach. Thankfully, God believes in his children more than that and has chosen to use us to accomplish His purpose. 

I know this will strike many the wrong way, others will hate it, some agree with a point or two and some will know I am sharing truth. A truth that may not be easy to hear but none the less, truth. I challenge everyone to do more than just give money but if giving money, give to those that are doing good, that is the good that helps the whole person, including the spiritual component of people, not just the physical. Remember that the Gospel and message of Jesus is also called Good News! In closing  I close with the following verses.

What does it profit anyone to gain the whole world and lose their soul? - Matthew 16:26

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. - Romans 15:13

You can experience the plan of salvation and the eternal hope that comes with Jesus. Watch the following video for more information, just click on it, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link. I also encourage you, if rededicating your life to Jesus or making a commitment to follow Christ, let me know, I will do all I can to help you in the situation you are in.

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A Christmas Story, Chapter 2, Christmas Eve

The following is Chapter 2 of A Christmas Story by Mike Furches.  You can see the preceding prologue and Chapter 1 in the archives or links section of this page. This story is copyrighted by Mike Furches and intent to publish in book form in 2015.  This is the variation prior to final edit prior to publication. 

From A Christmas Story

By Mike Furches

CHAPTER 2

Christmas Eve

            The Hamm’s home was a nice, two-story split level located in one of the new subdivisions in Owasso. Owasso was a fast growing bedroom community North of Tulsa, and predominately Caucasian. The income for most homes was in the middle to upper class status. Few minorities lived in Owasso although there had been a influx of Hispanic workers. There was a large transfer of Hispanics from Texas for chicken processing plant. There were few Blacks and Asians. There was a larger number of Native Americans due to the large population of Original Americans in the area as a hold over from Oklahoma Territory being set up for reservations. The Original American population was larger than other population groups with the exception of Caucasians but in comparison with other communities across Oklahoma, Owasso had fewer Native Americans per capita than most communities across the state. Even with this the case Owasso took pride in its Original American heritage.  Even the name Owasso meant End of the Trail and it respected everyone making up its community.

Charlie and Tayras’ home sat off of 76^th Street North. Driving to work Charlie accessed Highway 169 just by pulling out of his driveway, turning west, going approximately 2 miles and getting on Highway 169 South towards Tulsa. Highway 169 a 4 lane expressway into Tulsa allowed him to be at work in 20 minuets. The actual mileage between the two cities limits was only three miles but with the early morning traffic it took longer to get to work.

Friends and family visiting the Hamm’s from out of state were surprised at the number of lakes in Oklahoma. Oklahoma is among the top states with the number of miles of coast line, including all bodies of water. The area surrounding Tulsa is hilly with plush green surroundings. During the seasons, especially the fall, there are flowering plants throughout the region. This all created a much more beautiful impression of Oklahoma than most realized.

In the area around Owasso there was a change in scenery with fewer hills especially to its north going towards the Kansas state line. All across Tulsa and most of the North East region of the state there was a number of forests with beautiful streams and hills. There were other areas where it was flat, and not much to see other than the tall grass prairies. When going North towards Kansas, Owasso was the first area where this became obvious.

The Hamm’s moved to Owasso due to its close proximity to Tulsa and American Airlines where Charlie worked and it had a good reputation for their schools. While many schools had good reputations in the area, Owasso students tested exceptionally well on state and national tests and it was close to work. A large percentage of students went to college where they also excelled. This was important to Charlie and Tayra due to their own interests for their children to do well and prepare for the future. After living in Owasso for awhile they realized that not everything was as rosy as they had first thought. Owasso like any community had their share of problems but it was a community they where still pleased to live in and be a part of. They also knew that while every community and every school has some to be desired, it was still superior to others public schools in the area.

******

Charlie enjoyed Christmas more than any of the holidays and his house showed it. While the region surrounding Tulsa was noted for their decorations during the Holidays Charlie and Tayra had a house which exhibited the holiday spirit. The two-story-split-level home had lights surrounding the frame of the house all of the way around the eves. They had candles in each window and a large beautiful lighted green wreath on the front door adorned with red ribbons. In the front of the yard was a unique full sized, life like nativity. It had all of the traditional things, the shepherds, three kings, Mary, Joseph, baby Jesus and animals but it also had a figurine of Santa Claus kneeling at the manger of the baby Jesus. There was a flood light on the nativity changing colors and a hidden speaker playing the songs, Away in A Manger, and It Came Upon A Midnight Clear. The house was not decorated in a gaudy way as many houses often were during the holidays, it was neat and attractive. It was a house people drove by when out driving and looking at lights and many were impressed with it because of its simplicity and appreciation that it wasn't as much like the Griswold house with Steve Martin from the movie A Christmas Story. Instead there was a lot to see and it was tastefully done.

Charlie sat on the living room couch with his arm around Tayra looking at the Christmas tree and listening to a mix of Christmas music he had put together on his Mp3 player. It included everything from Classic Christmas Carols like Joy to the World and songs by Andy Williams and other Classical artists to some newer contemporary Christmas songs like Tennessee Christmas by Amy Grant, and others by Steven Curtis Chapman, Point of Grace and others. He even had a few Chipmunk Christmas songs for the kids but truth was, Charlie liked those songs as much as the kids. Charlie and Tayra put the kids to bed almost two hours ago and were confident they were asleep. The two of them were starting to get tired themselves.

The Hamm’s were not going to have a huge Christmas this year but they were going to have a very nice Christmas. Charlie always saw to it that his family got most of what they wanted for Christmas, not because he believed in the commercialism of Christmas but he saw it as an opportunity to show his family how much he loved them. Charlie and Tayra also made it a point over the last 15 years to make sure they had their children go through their possessions and clear them out prior to Christmas most of the time delivering the goods to ministries and other places they knew there would be children who would appreciate any gift they got. They did this annually with the gifts being used and others practically new but all of them almost like new. Charlie never liked giving away things that were of no value. He had volunteered on a regular basis at a church named Mosaic that did a lot of work for the homeless. He had unfortunately seen soiled toys, stuffed animals, blankets and the like donated to that ministry, even at time seeing people donate spoiled food. Pastor Mike at Mosaic always expressed his gratitude for the gifts but had decided some time ago that he just didn't have the manpower to sort through donations of the sort. Through this Charlie learned to think beforehand about what type of impression it would give to someone who had always been given used broken items or items of no value like the things he had seen donated to Mosaic.

In the background of the living room there were the soft carols of Mannheim Steamroller and Kenny G now playing. The music was all instrumental but easy and pleasing to the ears. It was nice because Charlie had just taken off the music of The Tractors, a popular country swing band out of Tulsa that he enjoyed. While their music and c.d. was enjoyable it was definitely upbeat and at times humorous. Charlie moved closer to Tayra putting his arm around her and snuggling up to her. "Church sure was good tonight wasn’t it?"

"Yea everything except the rain storm and getting there a little late." Tayra responded as she reached down and placed Charlie’s hand in hers. She gently rubbed the back of his hand with her thumb as they sat there snuggle up with the soft sounds of Christmas playing through their sound system.

Charlie chuckled, "Well at least I don’t have to wash my hair tonight before foing to bed."

"I guess not." Tayra responded with a smile as she snuggled even closer, putting her head on his chest.

"Charlie?" Tayra asked.

"Yea, Honey."

"Do you really think the kids will have a good Christmas this year, I mean Brenda and Sammy didn’t really get a lot of stuff?"

"No but they got pretty much what they wanted and what they wanted cost a pretty penny. We got that stereo and ring for Brenda and Sammy has a new motorcycle parked out front that he doesn't know about yet. That’s besides the other little things they have under the tree like clothes, c.d.’s and things from others in the family." Charlie responded.

"Yea I guess that’s right." Tayra answered. "I can’t wait to see Sam’s eyes, especially after the presents for Kari and Brenda have been opened. He'll get down to his last present, the little box you have hid under the tree stand that tells him to go look outside. I guess that up until then he'll be thinking he doesn't have much and didn’t get much this year. Then he"ll see his new motorcycle." Tayra’s eyes lit up because she remembered the times Charlie fooled the family into thinking they were not getting much and surprised them with either wrapping boxes in boxes to disguise the gift or to at times kidding them and telling them exactly what they had in a present all of the time knowing they didn’t believe him. This was a pleasant memory for Tayra because Charlie didn't give her an engagement ring when they got married because he just didn't have the money. It wasn't until they had been married for three years before she got her ring. It was the Christmas he wrapped the ring in a box with a brick in it, telling her all of the time it was her ring but knowing she didn't believe him.

The two sat there talking and reflecting on past Christmases when the clock chimed that it was now 1 AM.

"I guess it's bedtime. We have everything out and the kids know better than to come in here until we are up. I know they will be up by at least  they will be up 6 AM trying to get us up." Charlie said.

Tayra replied, "I really think they will sleep in tomorrow until at least 8:00. Sammy and Brenda are old enough that they know what they need to do and Kari is so young that she doesn't realize what is going on."

"Yea, I guess we have a couple of years before we start getting woke up at 3 and 4 o’clock in the morning. Of course Sammy and Brenda could fool us, we will have to wait and see, and pray that they sleep in." Charlie said laughing. Then realized the clock had chimed at 1 AM he bent down to her as she lay her head on his chest and kissed Tayra, "Merry Christmas honey."

"Merry Christmas." She responded after the kiss. "Come and lets go on to bed and get some rest." They got up from the couch and started walking down the hallway towards their bedroom. They turned off the lights on the tree and around the house, including the outside. They left the living room area shutting the sliding privacy doors into the living room which keep the room from being visible to the kids once waking up. They children may wake and go to the kitchen to get something to eat before Charlie and Tayra but Charlie and Tayra knew they would not go into the living room until everyone was up. Charlie and Tayra had also given strict instructions that Sammy and Brenda were to either be in their room doing whatever, or in the kitchen eating breakfast but they were not to go into the living room or outside. This would keep Sammy from seeing his motorcycle parked in the driveway which was only visible from Charlie and Tayra’s bedroom and the living room. As Charley and Tayra walked upstairs they peeked into each of the children’s bedrooms and sure enough they were sound asleep. It wasn’t long until they were both in their room sound asleep.

The lights were turned off both inside and out, and the person in the car parked a half a block down noticed, the Hamm's were obviously going to bed.

******

The Hamm's sleep restfully except for a brief moment when Charlie thought he heard a noise downstairs and later a vehicle leaving near their house. He started to get up but realized  that Tayra had not moved. He thought that what he heard was from a dream or his imagination. After all the furnace often kicked in it made noises and Charlie thought it could have been the sound he thought he heard. After thinking about this a few moments he went back to sleep without any difficulty. 

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

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There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News
 

The World Or Your Soul

In life we sometimes want so much around us, our family, friends, and even people we are aware of that we have gotten to know through observation be it via television, movies, other friends or some other form. This really hit home, especially recently with the suicide of Robin Williams. As with many others around the world, many grieved at his death. It became even more complicated when I saw others with little or no understanding of mental illness and specifically major depression either making fun of or making light of his death. Despite these people, we saw attention brought to the subjects of suicide, major depression and even Parkinson's. All this from the likes of the regular Jane or Joe, foreign dignitaries, members of the Armed Services, and even the President of the United States. This recognition not typical but is an example of how others, even those we don't know can be touched from someone else.

Through this observation and others I have been reminded, why don't some do more to help themselves, after all, many of us care about them and want to see them improve their situations. I want them to improve their lives, potential and ultimately their hope. For me, I firmly believe that without Jesus, there is little if any real hope possibilities. Others may say they believe that but unfortunately their actions don't always show it. It is unfortunate but I think that for some, their actions show they are either afraid of the possibilities or are satisfied with where they are, even if those who really know them, know can see the possibilities and know what is best. It like a parent who has lived their life but realizes they can't live through or for their children, even when they know what is best.

A question for me is, why? The answer is quite simple, either one surrenders to Jesus or they don't. I see many who call themselves Christians or Followers of Jesus who don't take the commitment to Jesus seriously. It is sadder in some ways when others condone this lack of commitment. It is unfortunate but few really desire to be like Jesus. I am not trying to engage in the condemnation thing, I am talking about having an "I love you so much I want what is best for you," attitude. One that sacrificially gives out of love to another. This brings forth another question: Do we love others so much that we grieve when they don't want the best for themselves?

There are hurting people all around us who make poor decisions, sometimes decisions that cost them their lives. Do we evaluate what we can do, how we can share a message of hope, salvation and opportunity, or are we satisfied with doing just enough to keep ourselves feeling good about doing something for someone else?

In the Bible there is this incredible concept called "Incarnation." It is as simple as this, Jesus was with God from the beginning of time. He had it all in Heaven, yet, He loved us so much that he decided to leave Heaven to come to earth, to be born in a feeding troth, (we normally use the nice word, stable) to two poor parents, his mother Mary, and adopted father, a carpenter, Joseph. He willingly did this because He loves us and wanted more for us. I don't know if you have been on a farm but the feeding troth, the stables do not have the best smell or conditions but this is Jesus first on earth and even then, as a baby.  He was known for much of his life as Jesus of Nazareth, due to where he grew up. Others were familiar with him, knew him. Jesus chose to incarnate so we could better understand him and in return we also know, He understands us. 

Incarnation is a concept I have valued and studied for some years. It is one of the reasons I chose to give up a salary, to live among and with the people God has called me to minister to. I challenge that when one incarnates to the level and place God has called them, they will have a love, a passion, a seriousness about loving and serving God has called them to. They will experience joy but also grief and sadness. It is important in these extremes that we keep our focus and purpose on Jesus. If is from incarnation that people ultimately see the potential in themselves. When we love to the extreme many will see the potential and possibilities in their own lives. It doesn't change the hurt for us when one slips through the cracks or ultimately, even worse, goes their own way and knowingly walks away from God. 

Ultimately, for ourselves and others we must understand that while we are responsible for our actions, we are our brothers keeper and are called to help each other out. We love as best as we can. We joy when they joy, we grieve when they grieve, we are happy when they make the right decisions, we hurt when they make the wrong decisions but ultimately, we remember, we do our best, and each person is responsible for their own actions. While there are times when people make the right decisions and bad things still happen but that is a whole other topic for another day. 


Today I pray, may I do the best I can. May I surrender to Jesus and may those I am love and am in contact with do the same.


James 1: 21 - 27:  (21) You must stop doing anything immoral or evil. Instead be humble and accept the message that is planted in you to save you.

(22) Obey God’s message! Don’t fool yourselves by just listening to it. (23) If you hear the message and don’t obey it, you are like people who stare at themselves in a mirror (24) and forget what they look like as soon as they leave. (25) But you must never stop looking at the perfect law that sets you free. God will bless you in everything you do, if you listen and obey, and don’t just hear and forget.

(26) If you think you are being religious, but can’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and everything you do is useless. (27) Religion that pleases God the Father must be pure and spotless. You must help needy orphans and widows and not let this world make you evil.  



The Bible calls us to be Disciples, are you a Disciple?  To see the following video, just click on it, if you click on it and there are problems, feel free to click on the following link:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwYeaSetv88



The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid 


Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click to subscribe to my blog

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News
 

Who is Mike Furches, What Am I Called To Do

Who am I? I am first and foremost a willing slave to Jesus but I am more. I am a writer, speaker, author, I actually have 3 jobs although many think I only have one. I write, often contribute to Hollywood Jesus and The Virtual Pew, although I wish I was doing more for Hollywood Jesus, my own fault though because of the time it takes to do other things.  I operate an online ministry previously referenced called The Virtual Pew which I started a number of years ago with the help and advice from some rather respectable people in Christian Ministry, that ministry, The Virtual Pew is also about helping people who are tired of church, been hurt by the church, our focus of ministry has always been The Lost, The Last, The Least and the challenge to those in the church to do the things Christ has called us to do. There is a strong aspect of teaching with The Virtual Pew but also helping people, one at a time, with love and compassion. There has been everything done there from Evangelism, (actually speaking with altar calls and street evangelism or one on one evangelism both face to face and on line), to Suicide Prevention or Grief Counseling and because of my own story, often times helping people who have gone through abuse in one form or another, most often sexual abuse. I have worked with gangs, and troubled youth through that ministry and despite what some believe  I don't do homeless ministry 100% of the time because the lost and hurting involves more than just the homeless.  

 I also pastor a church, albeit very small, Mosaic Wichita. We have as a primary focus the charge of making disciples.   We support other ministries and the work they do, there are first line ministries and others that we like and support, some like that of Breakfast Bob that is a front line meeting initial and immediate needs of those he comes into contact with. We know of his intent to share Jesus and  it is as mentioned in scripture, some water, some plant, some cultivate, and ultimately it is the Holy Spirit who obtains the harvest.

We don't try to make just Christians, or people saved by the skin of their teeth but disciples, truly dedicated 100% willing to surrender all to Jesus. We are to make Disciples, period. While we are to reach, love and serve the poor among others, (Jesus ministry was not only to the poor) his final words commanded us prior to departing this earth was to make disciples. It is our belief at Mosaic that while our primary area of ministry is to the poor, including the homeless, that does not negate the demand and command of Jesus, that we make disciples among all people.

There are other things I used to be, a lifeguard, a factory worker, a construction worker, a carpenter, a football player, a soccer player.  I worked and did pretty well in the music business and in the world of psychiatric mental health rehabilitation.  While those are experiences and parts of me I am appreciative of, have learned from, is still a part of me, they are not the all of me.

Oh yeah there is something else I am besides all of this, something many of those in ministry seem to forget about, I am a father and a husband. If those aren't my first callings or priorities to ministry and I believe the first callings for all of those in ministry, then the ministry one is involved in is not the ministry God has endorsed.  Think about it, pray about it, search scripture for the truth on it. On those matters of Biblical truth, I will not compromise. It is not always easy but if I can't love and serve my own wife and children, how can I really love and serve those I have come into contact with in my "ministry" life?   Let all of us totally surrender to Jesus, not the things we have heard about Jesus, but the Jesus we see in scripture, his life, his example, let us be the people, doing the things, that God has called us to, not our opinions, not our feelings, but God's callings.

To see the following video, simply click on video, if the video doesn't appear, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXzjLUN6Fd0

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry.  Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work.  Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the materials provided.

Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid 

Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew


Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click to subscribe to my blog

There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free audio book link of The Keystone Kid at mike@furches.org You can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/.

Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word. Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew
1249 N. St. Francis
Wichita Kansas, 67214
Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News



The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

Have We Experienced The Family of God?

As I get older and my health isn't what it used to be, (although I haven’t given up hope and still work on it) I have come to realize, we all have 2 families. If we are lucky one is good, if we are blessed both the spiritual and natural family are good.

The first family that comes to mind is our natural family, mother, father, brothers, sisters, etc…  Most of you know my family history, or likely do so from my book The Keystone Kid and/or other writings. While I had some difficult times in my life, I have come to appreciate more and more my blood family. I love my sisters my half sister Teresa whom I have spent little time with and my full-blooded sister, Andrea (Sissy) whom I grew up with. Growing up in the same household Sis and I experienced many of the same things. I admire her for her courage and sticktoitnuss, God used her in a mighty way to bring me into His family. I love my sister and wish we lived closer. There are others in my family I miss. While I am having some health issues as I write this, I spoke with my Uncle Larry last night. He was checking up on me and asked how I am doing, I responded, “as well as can be expected, but I am keeping my spirits up trying to find ways to make people laugh and enjoy life, I am after all a Furches.”  I was moved by his concern, because, he is family. I could write a great deal about how much I love my family, whether they realize it or not. I am healing and the more God provides healing, the more I am learning to love.

There is another kind of family, one where Jesus brings people together. The Bible speaks often and eloquently about the Family of God, brothers, sisters, babes, and so forth. We see an emphasis on the community of believers, from the Lord’s Prayer, where Jesus instructs us to say, OUR Father, deliver US, give US OUR, and so forth. Then there is a passage some find troubling, Matthew 12: 46-50:

(46)  While Jesus was still speaking to the crowds, his mother and brothers came and stood outside because they wanted to talk with him. (47) Someone told Jesus, “Your mother and brothers are standing outside and want to talk with you.”

(48) Jesus answered, “Who is my mother and who are my brothers?” (49) Then he pointed to his disciples and said, “These are my mother and my brothers! (50) Anyone who obeys my Father in heaven is my brother or sister or mother.”

While the above passage can be troubling, I don’t think Jesus is saying forget about, ignore, or having nothing to do with your blood family, he is saying your family is more than your blood relatives, it includes all of those who are a part of the Kingdom of God who have surrendered to His Son, Jesus Christ. 

Unfortunately in today’s world we live in a place that focuses on individualism.  Don’t take me wrong, to discover ones gifts, talents, to love one’s self, etc…, is important, but one of the ways we discover self is by loving others, to be a part of the group or community. We are to share in life, care for each other, see to it that no one has a need. We are to be there and love each other. Unfortunately, this concept has been lost, many of us don’t even know our next door neighbors, those we call brother and sister. If we don’t know each other, how can we be a family?

I have learned the importance of my spiritual brothers and sisters. Much of that comes from living away from my blood family for most of my life. I hate it but it is a part of the call of ministry. I go where God leads, not where I want. I have been blessed to have many brothers and sisters. While I enjoy keeping up with many of them via social media and meeting new ones, nothing replaces the hands on experience, a hug, a holy kiss, a love that family understands, a communion where we commune in life, not just a ceremony of breaking bread and drinking wine.

God has compelled me see to it that the ministry I am involved in experiences what the Greek calls, Koinonia, or Family and Community, where all things are shared.  I believe it is what God would have for his people. While there are times to be alone, there are also times to share in life, even to help each other out through our problems. Many make the excuse to not share in life with a body of believers, for years I was in that boat but the more I study scripture, the more I realize how unbiblical that belief is. I joy because I share in life; I have blood family I love and others via spiritual family via faith in Jesus Christ. 

Lastly, I have a son I deeply love. Nathan is adopted and I love him just as I love my daughter by birth. I have learned of the ability to love and the value of coming into a family via adoption, that is what the Kingdom of God is, people who have been adopted into the Family of God. I would challenge, enjoy this family to the fullest, if in a good church, experience community in shared life, stay for the pot-lucks, and develop relationships where you want to be with that family. When you aren't and you find yourself missing those special moments, maybe, just maybe, God wants more, and that more is community.

To see the video below, just click on it, if for some reason it doesn't work, click on the following link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mcW6tMPgmxI 

The Virtual Pew and our other work is supported solely by the kind contributions of others. You can click on the donate button below to give any amount to this work that does so much more than just post articles on the net; I draw no ongoing salary from the church I pastor, Mosaic Wichita which is predominantly a homeless church; I am grateful for any small amount you can contribute to help with this ministry. Believe me there is much more going on than most realize. I will also provide information to verify the ministry and income that comes into this ministry and work. Thanks and feel free to share any material from The Virtual Pew, I only ask that appropriate credit is given and a link to the original site with the material is provided.

Click here to read about, and order the book, The Keystone Kid

Click here to visit the web page The Virtual Pew 

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Church where Mike is Pastor

The Keystone Kid/Virtual Pew Message Boards

Click here for booking information to have Pastor Mike come speak or perform, from speaking to music or magic, something for all groups.

Click to visit with Pastor Mike regarding any of your needs. He will respond to each request personally, and if need be refer you to one of our other pastors.

Click to subscribe to my blog

Click to visit and join our sister group at MySpace Hollywood Jesus.

Now for those that do not know, make sure you check out the numerous articles and blogs by checking out the archives. If visiting The Virtual Pew or MySpace they are archived on the left hand side of the page. Scroll down to where you see newer or older listed under archives and then click there. There are hundreds of postings so make sure to check out the archives. You can also contact me for a free e-book pre edit version of The Keystone Kid at mike@thevirtualpew.comYou can visit http://www.thevirtualpew.com/ and on the front page down on the left side you sill see our store. Your purchase provides needed funds to The Virtual Pew. If you do not see something to purchase you can click on the search engine, (do not put anything in the search box at this time). You will be taken to Amazon where you can search for anything you desire. Hopefully you will consider a gift to The Virtual Pew.

Now I get asked this quite often, Can we repost your blogs or articles? The short answer to that is, what an honor that you would ask, and by all means, spread the word.Here is our contact information

The Virtual Pew

1249 N. St. Francis Street

Wichita, KS 67214

Email: mike@furches.org

Click on the following links to learn more about The Virtual Pew

Donations to The Virtual Pew

The Virtual Pew Blog

Personal Furches Web Site

Mary Jane Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Page

Mike Furches MySpace Blog

Hollywood Jesus

Reviews With Mike

The Virtual Pew Sermons

The Virtual Pew News

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