Harbor Hoops

I prayed a few weeks ago - that God would give me some people.
We've been working on the building all summer long - but a church without people is well, nothing.

James and Jerry stopped by later that evening (after I had prayed for people) and I showed them the building - and then talked about bringing some of his friends to play ball.

Last night - they showed up. 21 of us!

After an hour and a half of basketball, I gave them each a soda and we went to the weight room to talk.

I told them...

1- "This is the Harbor and let me tell you something about Harbors. It's where boats go to get refueled and repaired." Then I read to them these words: "Brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy -- thing about suc things." I asked them what all those words have in common, and one guy said "They're all positive." I replied "That's right, that means, we watch our language. That means we use words to encourage each other, not to tear each other down. That's what we do around here - we HONOR one another with our words - we help repair and refuel each other."

Then, I told them...

2- "Another thing about a Harbor. Boats aren't meant to stay in the harbor - they get repaired, refueled, and then the boats go out. That means - if you choose to play ball with us - then you are agreeing to join me in going out to serve the community once a month. We may go into the City of Detroit and serve at the soup kitchen, or we'll serve here with the Boy's club or any number of things, but once a month, we'll serve -- all of us -- together."

They nodded in agreement.

Finally I said: "I'm a pastor and this is a church. A church where guys get together to play ball, and then do what we're doing now." (One of the guys whispered to his buddy: "I kind of like this kind of church!"). "And so, I want to pray for you right now."

I asked them to bow their heads, and they did. Then I prayed God's mercy and blessing and presence all over these guys. I prayed "thank you's" for the ability to play ball and I asked God to protect these boys as they leave. Then I said "In Jesus Name, Amen." And twenty one voices echoed "Amen".

I must tell you - my heart was huge with thankfulness to God for such an amazing night. Wow! I can't wait till next Tuesday when the Harbor Hoops (church) meets again!