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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Soup Kitchen Mentality, There Has To Be More Than Just Soup!

Sometimes it is better to use caution prior to writing something and then there are times one needs to say what needs to be said. Others will see the comments from today’s posting as something I should use caution with. I am doing that, but please understand; I have quite a few years of working with, being with and of serving the poor, homeless, mentally ill, and others often neglected by society under my belt. What I write is from experience, and personal, first hand observation. It is with this perspective that I hope people seriously think about the words I am putting on paper. I will assure you, I am fully convinced, that unless we do, we as a society (speaking specifically of America) and we as a Church, are quite possibly doing more harm than good with the populations we serve, albeit with good intentions.

Many have heard the comment that; ‘The road to hell is paved with good intentions.’ In this saying is the implication that no matter how much good is intended, it is possible that nothing of value is being accomplished in the work one is doing. I believe with all of my heart that our politicians, care providers, and yes the Church are quite possibly doing more harm than good. Let me explain.

It has been stated by some that the Bible speaks about poverty in over 2,000 verses. While I personally don’t know if that is true, (I tend to think it is not), one can’t deny the reality that the Bible does speak quite a bit about poverty, the poor, orphans, widows and so forth. There is no denying the reality of Matthew 25 when Jesus clearly states, that what we do for the least of these is of catamount importance. As a follower of Jesus, it is simple, I am commanded to serve, and help the poor. The question becomes though, what is helping the poor?

It is in the definition of help that many have come to irreparable points of debate. Some say the government should have no role in helping the poor, some say God judges nations for their treatment of the less fortunate, and unfortunately, many perspectives are based not on Biblical guidelines, but on political influence. It is after working with the poor and disadvantaged for over 30 years that I have come to the conclusions I have. I am aware that for many, those views will be controversial.

Let me be clear from the outset of my ongoing experiences. My wife and I have as an act of faith, given back much of our material possessions to carry out the ministry we do. For many years of our life we have had people living with us, and our children grew up seeing those people living with us, and celebrating holidays with us. My daughter, now approaching 30, has had more Thanksgivings with the mentally ill, than she has had with extended family. My wife and I still live by the concepts taught by Ron Sider in the Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger book. We are both an active part of our church which has as a point of emphasis, serving the poor. I am with the homeless and mentally ill approximately 6 days a week, for extended hours. Through our church we operate programs for the homeless at least 5 days a week and we located to our present location to be of service to the downtown community including the homeless. To be blunt, I value and have exhibited a life of service to the poor and homeless. This concept continues today, and will continue tomorrow. I say this not to boast, but to assure you, if it is possible with me, it is possible with we.

Some may ask, with my perspective of helping the poor and the belief that all followers of Jesus are commanded to do as much, what is the problem regarding governments, churches, and individuals doing more harm than good? A part of it is sense of competition that exists among these groups.

The overwhelming majority of programs established for the poor, and the homeless in my opinion should be largely defunded and new programs, on a limited basis reestablished to require effectiveness in what they are doing. The funding of keeping people in a disadvantaged state is largely what is taking place in many agencies. There is an old missionary concept that says, ‘It is better to teach a man to fish than to give them a fish. When you give him a fish you feed him for a day, when you teach him to fish, you feed him for a lifetime.’ I challenge, when you teach a man to fish, not only do you feed him for a lifetime, you feed his family for a lifetime. That individual also teaches others around them something that has them in effect, changing and feeding their families for a lifetime. Unfortunately, the overwhelming majority of our programs and tax dollars are providing a perpetual cycle that teaches laziness and an attitude of entitlement, thus doing more harm than good.

While we may have read passages that command us to feed, help, and touch, we can’t forget about the passages that encourage us to work, find value, and discover our purpose in serving our fellow human being. Unfortunately, many programs provide just enough to get by from day to day but we haven’t done what is necessary to help one provide for them in the long term. Not only is this a shame, I think it is a sin.

I was reminded today that for a large percentage of folks, as much as 35% of the homeless, they are stuck in their environment no matter what. While this is a shame, and we should help these people, we can’t ignore the shame of not doing what is necessary to help the other 65% get back on their feet and rediscover their life. Unfortunately the overwhelming majority of programs and ministries I have come into contact with have as a focus the 35% while ignoring the 65% who can, and should be helped to get back on their feet. As a result, through the definition of ‘ministry’ we have created systems that develop a sense of entitlement and in reality cause dependency as opposed to independence. On this point, there is blame that could go around, but the bulk of the blame has to go to those who deserve it, those who have created systems of service that give a man a fish as opposed to teaching him to fish.

Today I was reminded that as hard as it is, there are those who appreciate being taught how to fish. For some, it has been years of going through what they call disrespectful services, or requirements to realize they aren’t worth more than those services see them as, a no good homeless or poor person. I am reminded, it is as one believes in the abilities and talents of others, created in the majesty and image of God that they will see themselves as worth while and as one who can do more, and in fact, wants to do more. I saw it today as individuals thanked me for a program that respects them, cares about their welfare, sees them as equals, and as people deserving of being served as opposed to something less. A pat on a man’s stomach, a hug for a lady washing dishes, a touch of sympathy for a man needing glasses, it causes one to want more for themselves as they see themselves as someone with potential, worth a touch, and worthy of love for the first time in a long time. When the Bible talks about Jesus touching the sick, the down and out, the prostitute, the hungry, the homeless, the leper and more, there is more implied than we sometimes recognize. It is in touching someone that he showed love, that he showed their worth. He did more than touch their bodies; He touched their souls with a penetrating love that had not been experienced in some time, and for some, ever.

I don’t need to go on a lengthy discourse here, but let me ask the question, are you supporting ministries that give fish or teach how to fish. Have you spent enough time with the homeless to understand where they are coming from and what they believe or see? For those that do spend time with these folks, you will quickly learn how they know how the systems and approaches have failed them. It is easier to send a few dollars to a cause and never really know that cause than it is to spend time with the people being served. If you spend time with the people, you won’t often hear the same things you are being told by the agencies. Go into one of these programs as a homeless person undercover and see for yourself. Don’t just do it for a day, do it for a week and get a real taste of what life is like when you are treated like a piece of dirt with little or no value, even from those who say they are in ministry.

It is so easy to just send money, let me remind you of something, as strange as it may seem, God don’t need your money. What God wants and desires are for you to get your hands dirty. He desires for you to touch and to love the undesirable. When you do, you will find out that the undesirable really isn’t undesirable; it is in reality, Jesus. Remember the words of Jesus, ‘What you have done for the least of these, you have done for me.’ Bono from U2 is right, why worry about what to do or how to get close to Jesus. We know that Jesus is already with the poor, He is already among their mist, why not go to the place where we know Jesus is.

Now in closing, don’t assume that I am ignoring the reality that the Bible has some strong statements regarding the poor, the lazy and so forth. I haven’t forgotten, but neither have I forgotten the concept of doing more than just giving bread or water, we are called to serve a savior who has come to give us life and to give it to us more abundantly. God has the desire that people love themselves, no matter their condition, but He also would have us love others, not just feeding them, but in providing opportunity to know, and experience, the fullness of what God has for them. For many, this will include finding a home, getting a job, being a part of a loving community and more. Unfortunately, few places exist that provide these things. It is why I am honored to be at Mosaic and with The Virtual Pew though, we try to do these things. While it is very hard and we are relearning this new process, it is well worth it.

Today, I ask you to be willing to get your hands dirty; touch the person you are called to love, not metaphorically, but literally. Encourage work survival skills instead of simple day to day survival skills. Advocate for programs, churches and agencies that do more than just feed, have the expectation that we do more, because we can, and we should.

Now as I close today, check out the verses that talk about laziness. As you read these, understand I am advocating for doing more, not less, but I am also advocating that we do something that is effective, putting Band-Aids on a persons heart isn’t much of help for one that has just gone through heart surgery. Neither is a simple feeding of a man or woman who needs to learn living skills or work skills. Let’s teach people how to fish instead of just giving fish.

Now those verses I was telling you about:

Work hard, and you will be a leader; be lazy, and you will end up a slave. ~ Proverbs 19:15

If you are lazy and sleep your time away, you will starve. ~ Proverbs 12:24

Laziness leads to poverty; hard work makes you rich. ~ Proverbs 10:4

You lazy people can learn by watching an anthill.

(7) Ants don't have leaders, (8) but they store up food during harvest season.

(9) How long will you lie there doing nothing at all? When are you going to get up and stop sleeping?

(10) Sleep a little. Doze a little. Fold your hands and twiddle your thumbs.

(11) Suddenly, everything is gone, as though it had been taken by an armed robber. ~ Proverbs 6:6-11

Having a lazy person on the job is like a mouth full of vinegar or smoke in your eyes. ~ Proverbs 10: 26

Work hard, and you will be a leader; be lazy, and you will end up a slave. ~ Proverbs 12:24

Anyone too lazy to cook will starve, but a hard worker is a valuable treasure. ~ Proverbs 12:27

No matter how much you want, laziness won't help a bit, but hard work will reward you with more than enough. ~ Proverbs 13:4

A lazy person’s way is blocked with briers, but the path of the upright is an open highway. ~ Proverbs 15:9

Being lazy is no different from being a troublemaker. ~ Proverbs 18:9

Some people are too lazy to lift a hand to feed themselves. ~ Proverbs 19:24

If you are too lazy to plow, don't expect a harvest. ~ Proverbs 20:4

As the door turns on its hinges, so does the lazy man [move not from his place] upon his bed. ~ Proverbs 26:13

Don't be so lazy that you say, "If I go to work, a lion will eat me! ~ Proverbs 22:14

The servant who had been given one thousand coins then came in and said, "Sir, I know that you are hard to get along with. You harvest what you don't plant and gather crops where you haven't scattered seed. (25) I was frightened and went out and hid your money in the ground. Here is every single coin!"

(26) The master of the servant told him, "You are lazy and good-for-nothing! You know that I harvest what I don't plant and gather crops where I haven't scattered seed. (27) You could have at least put my money in the bank, so that I could have earned interest on it."

(28) Then the master said, "Now your money will be taken away and given to the servant with ten thousand coins! (29) Everyone who has something will be given more, and they will have more than enough. But everything will be taken from those who don't have anything. (30) You are a worthless servant, and you will be thrown out into the dark where people will cry and grit their teeth in pain." ~ Matthew 25:24-30

Then you would never be lazy. You would be following the example of those who had faith and were patient until God kept his promise to them. ~ Hebrews 6:12

Those too lazy to plow in the right season will have no food at the harvest. ~ Proverbs 20:4

Despite their desires, the lazy will come to ruin, for their hands refuse to work. ~ Proverbs 21:25

Take it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody. ~ 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12

To see the video posted below click on the video. If the video isn’t at full scale or doesn’t show up, click on the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QvXU5EG0rYk



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

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

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
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

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

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

The Virtual Pew News # 25, Ministry, Ministry, Ministry

Welcome to The Virtual Pew Newsletter, a lot has been happening but with that said, I hope you take the time to read through the entire newsletter.

As many of you know, the web site for The Virtual Pew has been down. Long story made short, I had the web site for the book, The Keystone Kid put up and thought I had someone to do the site for The Virtual Pew for me. It hasn’t been done but not for the lack of trying. I am back at the place; I need someone dependable that can develop a simple web site, linking to various blog pages and a message board. Something that I can manage, update and change on a regular basis would be great. Either someone who can develop this site, train me on doing the site, or donating an appropriate program to do the site is much needed. Can you help with this particular need? Truth is, since the books publication, I receive daily communications related to abuse, and related to the ministry related to The Virtual Pew. This is an area of need that you can contribute to in one of the above mentioned ways.

I realize it may be possible that you haven’t been to the web site for The Keystone Kid. The url for that is www.thekeystonekid.com I am pleased with the book and it has been doing well. As is the case in many things of the sort, I haven’t seen the royalty checks as of yet, but am aware of a good number of books being out there, either via hardback, paperback, or e-reader versions. I continue to schedule speaking engagements to share the story of what God did for me in either short presentations in as little as 5 minutes where I have the book available, to longer presentations where I speak and share the story for upwards to 45 minutes. There are other topics I am available to speak on. The book is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers, either on line or via ordering through the store. You can also go to Friesen Press and order various versions suitable for various e-readers, including, Sony, The Nook, and more. Amazon has the Kindle version available on their web site.

The book is critical for me now as I have made a decision related to Mosaic Church, the brick and mortar church I pastor. I am reminded of a verse of scripture that states that if a church or ministry can, they should pay their pastor twice their worth. In that same passage though, people forget where it says, if paying the pastor creates a burden on the body, then he is to receive no salary. I have urged Mosaic to relocate to downtown Wichita. In order to acquire the space, since we lost funding from The Church of God, I have voluntarily given up my salary until the church can afford it. Don’t get me wrong, I pray that there are times the church can pay me some, but it really isn’t that big of a deal. Even when the church can afford it, it is still my hope, desire, and prayer that we obtain additional salary from contributions to The Virtual Pew, speaking and so forth and use the money from the church for various other ministries. The truth is, most of the money coming into The Virtual Pew, (albeit minimal) actually goes back out to direct ministry, whether assistance to the homeless, or some other form of direct ministry and help.

You can of course help in a variety of ways by donating either to The Virtual Pew, or to Mosaic Church. I will share addresses for those at the conclusion of the newsletter. Now for those who are curious, the last 2 months I have received nothing from Mosaic, the month prior to that $800 and the month prior to that $600. Of course I also pay my own expenses including mileage. Last month via The Keystone Kid and speaking, I received approximately $500, and the month prior to that, $400, and the month prior to that, $2,700 which enabled me to focus more on Mosaic without having to work on booking myself out to speak. I expect there will be months where larger amounts come in, but all in all, it is clear, God continues to meet our needs. I am also expecting a royalty check from Friesen Press this next month, I am not certain how much that will be but I expect it to be less than $500. I do by the way; have a good supply of books available, both in hard back, and paper back that you can order directly off of the web site or through me. The prices for those are $20 for paperback, $30 for hardback. I have donated a good number of books out, (over 20) and have a few people who have ordered books, with the promise to pay, that have not paid for their books.

Also in the works, not far from completion is the short movie The Long Walk. Currently Rob Cassels, Sam Eakins, Darrell Thompson, and Mark Childress from The Rob Cassels Band are finishing up the original score for the movie. It looks tremendous at this point and we are going to be submitting the film to various film festivals. We will also have a product available to market which will include commentary by the Director and myself, possibly others, it will also include a brief interview with me of what has happened since the book, a interview with a couple who have gone through their marriage whose life was impacted by abuse, and an interview with the pastor who led my mother to Jesus. There is editing and work to be done on the special features of the DVD to be made available for purchase. Pray for all of this though, pray that it will be accepted into film festivals, viewed by those who need to see and hear the story and be touched by the power of forgiveness. Also pray as we seek to shop the short to major companies in order to raise funds for a feature film. For those who have seen this work, they are impressed, and many have stated how God is clearly involved in the project. That will confuse some as the short itself is a variation of the story in The Keystone Kid, and it is not a clearly overt ‘Christian’ project. There is even rough language and difficult situations in it. However, with the special features, and the discussions which will take place at film festivals, it will be clear of the role of Jesus Christ in the story. We will also be listing the Short on Kickstarter at Amazon where individuals can contribute to help support the project financially and get perks for their donations and support.

Now as to Mosaic Church, the brick and mortar church I pastor. I alluded earlier that we had relocated. Mosaic has a unique history. In its early days, (prior to my arrival) Mosaic met in an arts community of Wichita called Delano. It had an effective impact on the community but eventually the church moved to a school. After 3 school transitions, the church was ready to dissolve. I came on board and shortly thereafter we relocated to a community that seemed to fit our current needs. As we came close to outgrowing that facility I recognized the need to get back to the mission God had called us to. We had seen tremendous success in two areas of ministry that our people seemed to support and we were seeing it impact others in the community. The two areas were ministries to the homeless and the arts community, specifically the filmmaking community. We decided to look for property in the downtown area. Gay Quisenberry, who was the manager for Rich Mullins assisted us in the quest. We located a building downtown that had sat vacant for 10 years. A long story there, but after 3 months of issues, we finally moved into the facility.

The Downtown Mosaic location encompasses approximately 6,000 square feet. We are less than 1 block away from the largest homeless gathering in the city of Wichita and less than 2 blocks from the center of Downtown. We have a month to month lease on the property. There is a rumor that an outside agency made an offer on the building, but it is only a rumor. We will counter offer on anything that is actually offered. So far, all indications are this is a rumor. We continue to move forward knowing that God will provide. We have had 2 services in the building, and this last week, we had our first pot-luck meal since moving out of the location on George Washington Blvd. We had over 40 in attendance if counting the approximate 10 homeless individuals who showed up. Our desire is to have other churches, businesses, ministries, and individual’s partner with us. We need groups to provide food on a weekly basis on both Saturday and Sunday to reach out to the homeless. We feel strongly of the need to find a way to fit everyone from the downtown community, including the homeless into a physical brick and mortar church where they can fit in and are a part of the family of God. We desperately need other groups to partner with us. Please pray that the churches of Wichita would come together to do the work of God together.

One of the other things we are also exploring at this point is the possibility of developing a clubhouse concept, (based on the Fountain House Model) for the homeless. Here, as opposed a day shelter, we would assist in the development of what we call the Work-Ordered-Day and assist in helping persons obtain affordable housing, and appropriate jobs through a Transitional Employment program that helps in relearning work skills. We need volunteers for this program, and after some commitment, we will be able to get funding. The operation of the program will help the homeless regain their life, not just sustain their condition.

Mosaic is also allowing the use of our space for various groups including: Novus Orsa a group that originally helped us with our homeless outreach. A part of the Vineyard Church in Wichita they assist in helping young homeless persons obtain housing. Others using our facility include, Axis Four Films an Independent Film Company, The South Central Kansas Film Co-Op, and Gay Quisenberry. Gay is also helping us with events, including concerts, theater, grants and more.

My wife Mary Jane teaches at Derby Middle School and is in the process of looking at retirement. We don’t know where that will take us, so please pray for us. I realize the blessing I have in my wife. Also pray for our son Nathan. Some of you know the complexity of that request, I will simply say, it is our desire for our son to return to the God who loves him. We want him to dedicate his life to the King of Kings. We keep our granddaughter Aaliyah every weekend and we are blessed to do so. She comes to church with us and we realize the importance of our time with her. Our daughter Marathana, and our son in law Brett are expecting their first baby, a little boy in June. She works at Hesston College in Hesston Kansas, just north of Newton Kansas where she lives. She is the Director of Communications for the college and is actively involved with her husband in their church. We still have our White German Shepherd, named Kersey and just adopted a little Yorkie named Buster. They both bring some joy into our lives and our granddaughter loves them.

I continue to write, and lately, it seems like I have done a lot of movie reviews. Some of them I can recommend others I can’t. I can say however, I have tried to review each movie with the intent of you learning something that you can share with someone whether you have seen the movie or not. I always do my reviews as a seed that can point people to God.

I continue to covet and value your prayers for the work God has called me to. It is an honor to know that some of you have partnered with these ministries over the years; I suspect there are people who have touched that we don’t know about. My faith tells me that some day we will. I am aware of people who have been touched, come to know God and in a relationship with him because of this ministry. For those of you offering prayers of support, and/or financial help, I thank you.

God bless you and remember; God is good all the time, and all the time God is good!

Links of interest follow the signature,

Mike Furches
www.thekeystonekid.com

You can follow me on Twitter at Mike Furches or The Virtual Pew and friend me at Facebook at Mike Furches. Also, don’t forget about the Facebook page for Mosaic Church, The Virtual Pew, and The Keystone Kid.


When A Homeless Man Worships
http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2011/03/when-homeless-man-worships.html

Tangled
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/tangled-blu-ray-dvd.html

Teenage Paparazzo
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/teenage-paparazzo.html

Last Tango in Paris
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/last-tango-in-paris-blu-ray.html

Walking on Water
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/walking-on-water.html

The Wildest Dream
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/wildest-dream-following-george-mallory.html

Siren
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/siren.html

Step Off, AKA Battle the Movie
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/03/step-off-aka-battle.html

Night Catches Us
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/02/night-catches-us.html

The Eagle
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/02/eagle.html

The Best Slide Guitar Player I Ever Knew: A Suicide Story
http://thevirtualpew.blogspot.com/2011/02/best-slide-guitar-player-i-ever-knew.html

Waiting for Superman on DVD
http://mikefurchesreviews.blogspot.com/2011/02/waiting-for-superman-on-dvd.html

To see the video posted below click on the video. If the video isn’t at full scale or doesn’t show up, click on the following link:
http://vimeo.com/21571470

Untitled from Mosaic Church on Vimeo.

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

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Wichita, the Church in Wichita Kansas where Mike is the pastor.

Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

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

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

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 visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

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
6441 N. Hydraulic
Park City Kansas, 67219

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

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

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed

Santa Claus & Serving Others

Since I was a small child, I loved Santa, despite being a poor child and growing up in a dysfunctional family; I still loved Santa. Over the years I have come to know the true story behind the real St. Nicholas and the history behind the character we know as Santa Claus. I have written a one man play where I present the story of The Real St. Nick and Jesus. In that presentation, I tell the origins of both the historical and mythical character.

As a Santa I am unique, I am also a pastor that uses my Santa project to assist in ministry and/or service related projects. Last year for example I was Santa to the Homeless in Wichita KS as was featured on the local news programs, and I also collected presents to give to poor and needy children, where I delivered those presents, yes on Christmas Eve. For those who remember last Christmas Eve, that was a chore as we had a snow storm, but I was still there with my elves delivering love and smiles on the faces of children in our community.

This year we will continue the Santa for the Homeless project where we will deliver Winter Wear to the homeless in the Downtown Wichita area. This year is unique in that we are also recruiting people from across the country to also help with the project in their own communities where we are encouraging people to do something for someone less fortunate on December 18. On this date Wichita will once again see Santa at the Downtown library handing out needed items to the homeless. We also plan on delivering presents again on Christmas Eve, rain, or snow. If we did it in last years blizzard we can do it this year.

To assist in this project and the ongoing ministry I am involved in, you can hire me out to be Santa for your event. I am presently booking dates and times for this and would be honored to serve you. I have an original suit and a joyous laugh. I also have other Santa’s which have been approved that I can book out as the times and dates start to fill up. The rates vary, and of course we also consider some charity events as time permits, but our paying customers have to come first.

Rates for Santa are as follows:

November 25 – December 17: $75 per half hour, $125 per hour, maximum, $250 for up to 6 hours for school day events etc…

December 18 – December 23: $100 per half hour, $150 per hour, maximum, $300 for up to 6 hours for school day events, etc…

December 24 - $150 per half hour, $200 per hour, maximum of $500, for 5 hour event.

Some will think the prices are high, some will think they are low. I realize they are a little higher than many standard Santa rates, but realize, the proceeds of this project and what is done with them, you also get what you pay for, and I really do have a great time blessing and being there for the kids. As a father, and now a grandfather, I also understand and appreciate the history behind the character. I doubt many have studied the character as much as I have. I even communicate with kids on a minimal basis with sign language, and this year, am using my real hair and beard.

To schedule events, contact me at one of the following methods, mike@furches.org or call 316-807-8034. Dates are already booking and cancellations with less than 48 hour notice are still responsible for full payment. I have performed at various schools, museums, grocery stores and more in the Wichita area.

For those who would like to contribute to the cause we still are in need of toys for the children, and winter items for the homeless (no ankle socks please, regular socks yes) You can contact us for information related to those items or you can make an online donation at the links provided to help with the costs of these items. You can also email regarding the donation of items for the projects. We would also invite you to attend a training for the project at Pawnee Avenue Church of God on December 10 from 7 – 8:30 PM and attend the give away on December 18 with us.

To see more on this years project, click here:

To see the video from last year; see below. If the video doesn’t appear, click on the link provided.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zGNKN2EpKNE

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

Click here to follow The Virtual Pew on Twitter

Mike Furches on Faceboook.

Click here to visit Mosaic Wichita, the Church in Wichita Kansas where Mike is the pastor.

Click Here to Go to The Virtual Pew Daily Verse and Read The Bible in a Year Passages

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

You can also Help The Virtual Pew by shopping on our web site or at Amazon, click here to shop at Amazon and help The Virtual Pew, it won't cost you anything extra, but we get a small percentage of the purchase.

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 visit and join the new group The Virtual Pew, at MySpace. Become a part of a different kind of Christian group, check out the page for more information,all welcome, including those who are not followers of Jesus.

Click to visit the Virtual Pew Website and become a part of that ministry.

Click to subscribe to my blog

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

Click to visit Mary Jane Furches' new MySpace Page

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

P.O. Box 17731

Wichita, KS 67217

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

Donations to The Virtual Pew

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

MySpace Hollywood Jesus Group

MySpace The Virtual Pew Group

The Virtual Pew Live Radio Web Page

To Subscribe to The Virtual Pew Live Feed