We call today – Good Friday. That name is so peculiar to me because it is good for us, but it was amazingly painful and brutal for Jesus. He was beaten, battered, and ultimately executed.
Good Friday also probably has a much different meaning for people in less privileged places around the world. In the United States – a Good Friday means dinner and a movie, but in Haiti – imagine what tonight will feel like.
Tonight, I am leading the newest members of Courageous Church through what I believe will be a transforming experience. They have gone through a trying, somewhat messy process of self-discovery over the past few months that culminates in our time together tonight. With nothing but the clothes on our backs we are traveling into what may be one of the most impoverished neighborhoods in the country. It’s not as bad as Haiti, but it is as close as it gets in Atlanta.
Once there, with tarps, we will set up a camp and spend the night. We are not there to tell the neighborhood about Jesus (of course we will if we get the chance), but we are there to get to know each other, confront our own fears, and get just a small glimpse of what it must feel like to be in Haiti right now. No tents. Few basic supplies. Unfamiliar people. Uncomfortable. Unsafe.
Many media outlets told me that we could get great coverage for this event, but I decided against it. Tonight – it is about remembering what Jesus did for us, remembering what our Haitian family is encountering, and setting our minds and hearts on them.
In the future we may use this type of event around the country to show our solidarity with Haiti. Stay tuned.
In the meantime, pray for our safety tonight and pray that God works something special in our hearts.
-Shaun
{ 2 comments }
Wow. What a bold, “courageous,” Jesus like thing to do. Think about it, in the days when Jesus was on this earth… where was he?? I am, once again, amazed at your drive & passion to help people – our family – all over this this world. I am praying for God to show up and for His shield of protection & His grace to cover all of you tonight.
Reason # 92309323209 I wish I lived in Atlanta and could go to your church. You guys don't just talk the talk and are truly courageous!