place and Presence

Recently I’ve been struck by the impact of being in the same place. Personally for nearly 15 years, but for Hope Street 27 years and counting. It’s a place that people know they can come back to. A place where when they show up, someone will be present, and meet them right where they are. 

For Joe, it’s a place where a hug and a listening ear are waiting when he needs to be reminded how valuable his life is. 

For Terrance, it’s a place that has watched him grow, and a place full of people who love him through each season. 

For Tony, it’s the familiar spaces now filled with new ways for him to build community and take steps forward. 

For Choseyn, it’s a place to dance, laugh, and be met with words of affirmation as she discovers the gift of simply being a kid. 

We get to be a faithful place that offers one of the greatest gifts, His presence, and it continues to transform everything. 

Father, thank you that your love endures. It captures hearts, it renews minds. It welcomes, convicts, empowers, and heals. It’s perfect. May your love continue to invite people home, to our place, where presence changes each of us. 

Amen,

Ash