Today I had the time to enjoy Vancouver. As I walked to Coal Harbour, I passed by a panhandler with a sign saying ‘fleeing abuser’. She was a lady in her early 40’s, sitting there quietly without making eye contact with anyone. As I passed by, a little voice in my mind said ‘go pray for her’. The Holy Spirit was telling me to pray for her, but I didn’t and kept walking. The Holy Spirit said it again, so I stopped and contemplated for a few minutes. My heart was racing because I was worried what she might think or that I might make a fool of myself.
But what I learnt from the training camp is to follow the Spirit, practice listening and obeying His commands. So I went back, knelt down and said ‘Hi how are you doing today?’. then I said ‘I don’t have money to give you, but can I offer you prayer?’. Her face lit up and she said yes! So I asked her what I could pray for her specifically. She paused for a moment to think, and said ‘For things to be easier’. I asked for her name and she told me it’s Liz. So I laid a hand on Liz’s shoulder and prayed for just that.
She thanked me and said she believes in prayer! She said every time a Christian prays for her something awesome happens. She said she was just praying to Jesus before I came by! She told me a wonderful story about when she was panhandling down the street 2 years ago; a 20 year old guy came by, gave her $10 and asked what she needed panhandling for, and Liz said she needed money to see her daughter who just gave birth to her grandson in Calgary. Sure enough he himself was heading to Calgary! And even more crazy, it was in the same district! He told Liz that God told him to go talk to her.
When they arrived in Calgary he gave her $200. He wasn’t looking to get paid back, but Liz insisted as she said, she is only trying to get by in life and not to rip anyone off. I told her that it was the Holy Spirit that told me to turn back and pray for her, and that I was pretty shy about it. She looked at me and said, “Don’t be! You have a very friendly personality and you shouldn’t be shy!”
I learnt today that sometimes those who are in need and have less may see the power of God more than we do! I went hoping to bless her through prayer, yet walking away, I felt like the one who got more blessed!
I’d like to thank everyone for your wonderful support! I’m very close to be fully funded! About $1,000 USD left! I am overwhelmed by the love people have for me. Especially for my anonymous donor who generously donated so much! I only have half a country left to cover! Take a look!
