Missio Lux Stories from Easter at Occidental Square – April 2010

These are our stories of our Easter Celebration at Occidental Square.  We each have a unique slice of our story of celebrating the Resurrection with people from all walks of life in the heart of Seattle's Pioneer Square distict. 

Please share your comments or stories on the form at the bottom of this webpage.  

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From Tamara Buchan:  

His name was Sheldon.  He came to the communion table after the Celebration Service and was bending down over and over in great distress.  He said he was so angry that he wanted someone to be hurt.  I asked him if he knew Jesus and he said no.  He kept saying how angry he was over and over.  I kept speaking Jesus’ name over him and giving him the picture of life and peace.  After a time he said that he wanted to be free of his anger and to be at peace.  I said, “Just say ‘Jesus, come to me.’”

I heard him say the words, “Jesus, come to me” and I got to see the Kingdom of God in all its fullness.  Instead of rage, Sheldon was filled with peace.  It was instantaneous and it was complete.  The storm left and the sea calmed.  Sheldon prayed and asked Jesus to become his Savior.  He took his first communion.  He got his first Bible.  And, right before Fran the videographer left, Sheldon gave his whole testimony on tape.

You can also go to my blog at www.missiolux.blogspot.com for my stories of our Easter Celebration. 

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From Kent:

I would like to share a little more background about Sheldon:

 I observed Sheldon as he was in a verbal confrontation with “Animal” a young man that had a large chip on his shoulder. Sheldon walked away as “Animal” was trying to get in a fight. I walked over and Sheldon shared how anger he was and said he “just wanted to stack chairs” and he proceeded to do that with me. He further told me that he just “want to cut him.” I asked him “what purpose would that serve?” “You’re bigger than him, don’t go there.” It always great to see how God works through so many in small little actions to accomplish his large  and heavenly purposes.

Little things add up to big changes in God’s kingdom. We are given many small opportunities daily to plant seeds for his larger harvest. God will bless you in the little things.

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From Joanne:

The whole celebration and food service was so worthwhile for Sheldon  came to the Lord.
God Bless. The story made me cry.
De and I didn't have any powerful story like that but sure enjoyed the smile on a little man who couldn't say enough about the delicious ham and cake. He keep saying ..."It's the best I ever had".   Thanks to all that made the meal. Joanne Baugh

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From Angie:  

For Easter Sunday our family went to Occidental Square in downtown Seattle to be part of a meal and Easter service for the homeless people who frequently gather there.  There was much preparation and planning in advance to coordinate such an event: bringing in all the food, tables, chairs, sound equipment, instruments, candy and craft supplies to make Easter bags, and assigning volunteers to all the tasks that needed to be attended to.  Many people came for the warm and savory ham and potato meal and the line for food wrapped around the square.  Then everyone sat together at round tables, the homeless, mostly men many rugged and dirty from their life on the streets with the upper middle class families from Sammamish and Issaquah.  It was and interesting sight, and I think those of us from suburbia felt good about what we were providing and giving to these poor folks, a warm meal, our attention for a few hours, worship music, and the gospel message, all in the hope that they might experience the love of God through us. 

 But something unexpected happened for me.  As my boys and I were decorating Easter bags to be filled with candy and given out after the meal, a homeless man came up to the table where we were working and began to speak openly about the love of Christ, and how he died for all of us, and how he especially loved the children.  He spoke pointedly with joy and sincerity, and we stood nodding our heads in agreement not quite sure how to receive this simple and powerful gift of love from one of those we had come to serve.

 The homeless man left, and the event continued on with a service of music, a message and testimonies that I observed with my friends and family surrounding me, but my mind was lingering on the message the homeless man had spoken not just through his words, but in the boldness of his actions.  He had reached beyond the social barriers that still separated us, though we stood as part of the same event in the same square in downtown Seattle. He made it clear to us that we are all one in Christ.

 Before he was arrested and carried away to be crucified, Jesus spoke these words to his Father  on behalf of all believers.  “I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one.  I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.” John 17:22-23

From Barb:

David seemed to be a quiet, gentle man that came to Occidental square Sunday and shared a meal with Kent and I. No one else sat at our table and it seemed like a divine appointment. He recently moved to Seattle from Texas and was looking for a job. Kent and I shared our current situation with looking for work for Kent. David said he had worked at a Paper factory for several years and thought he would retire there. He was laid off and was not able to find work.  His family is in Indiana but he didn’t want to go back. So he came to Seattle because he heard there were opportunities here. We shared how God is in the miracle business and told him about Larry’s story and that he would hear it today. David smiled, he seemed amazed and you could see his spirit lift from the story. It seemed to give him hope. He said he had an appointment and needed to leave.

 As we finished our meal I asked if he would like prayer. He smiled, eagerly said “YES,” I always accept prayer. We prayed for David and I saw him wipe away a tear. As he stood up we mentioned the communion table and he was welcome to participate. He slowly walked to the table and I served him communion. He was so appreciative and overcome with emotion. It was very apparent he was blessed by the food and love on Sunday and that he was deeply touched.

From Joshua:

I had many amazing experiences that day, but the 'best' one was when God worked through my mother and I to lead someone personally to the LORD.  His name is Jeff Boatwright.  He is 28 and was just released from 3 years in prison and currently living at the Union Gospel Mission.  When the group was preparing for the service at Occidental Square and they had the chairs facing the 'stage', my mother saw him and began speaking with him.  I then said that I liked his shirt (which was plaid lime-green and white).  As we spoke, we told us how he was released from prison the day before (Saturday, 3 April).  My mom asked, "Are you a believer?"

"No," he responded, "But my grandma was; she always went to church. I lived with her when I was 13 and I really loved her.

He then proceeded to show us that he was accepted into a school in order to learn how to be a professional deep-sea diver.  The music began, and so did the service, so I didn't talk to him and I didn't think anything else of it at the time.  Then, as we were about to leave (about an hour and a half later), my mom said, "I want you to pray for Jeff."   My mother had been talking to Jeff and sensed that he was wanting to give his life to the Lord.  She said to him, "Jeff, I believe this is your today to receive the LORD."

"Yes.  I do too," he responded.  My mom then went and found me and brought me to pray for him.

So then I led him in a prayer of repentance to Jesus Christ, and that He would come into Jeff's life and transform him by the power of the Holy Spirit.  It was amazing!  He was so eager and innocent in his prayer!  Then, we continued talking to him for about an hour, just to encourage him in his new faith and life.

It was one of the most amazing experiences that I have had!  To be able to preach the love and salvation of Jesus Christ and then to see someone personally respond and begin a new life in Christ.  So cool!! 

From Dave:

From Judy:

I met & prayed with several people on Sunday, but Billy Ray stands out the most for me. I met him in line, clean & well-dressed.....even had a day timer! He was full of gratitude for how the Lord had provided for him since he got out of an Oregon jail last week. 

He found a job online, called the owner of a cleaners in Seattle, & got the job within 3 days. His first day at work was Saturday! 

He was told that he was only allowed to stay at Bread of Life for 3 nights, but needed to stay longer until he got his first paycheck on the 20th. When I called the B. of L. on Monday to inquire how to assist him, I spoke to Brian who told me that he would extend his stay if Billy Ray talked with him directly. So I left a message to that effect for him at his new job.

It was a blessing to be able to join as two believers & to sense his commitment to turn his life around. He mentioned that he knew that he could steal the money he needs to get settled in a new city, but he isn't going that way any more; he's letting God provide for him & staying honest.

From Laurie:

Children of God at Occidental Square (Blog Post)

A young mom I know spent last night up with a sick daughter and at 2am started the resulting loads of laundry that took the rest of the morning. When I've had nights like that I feel like I would like the "adults" to show up and take care of everything and everybody. Somewhere inside I still feel like a kid.

The older I get it seems more and more that people never actually grow up. Susan Branch wrote, "Maybe no one ever really grows up. Maybe we just get to be older and older kids. Maybe the whole world is being run by old kids."

Yup, just big old kids. We met a lot of them at Occidental Square and we brought many with us from Sammamish too. Now I'm not talking about being irresponsible or immature, but the humility, fun and authenticity of children. As a result of our Easter Celebration, banqueting with the homeless in downtown Seattle, I have a new appreciation of what it means to be called the Children of God. (I John 3:1)

Some of the people there have quite a past. If I thought about it too long I would probably be terrified, but I wasn't. As I talked to one man about the sunglasses he was wearing and the rain we had last Easter, he told me last year he was in prison and even though the sun was missing this was a much better place to be. Such stories are expected with this population and there were lots of them, but these are the same people that melted as they received a decorated bag of candy from someone with a smile; men and women who were excited to get a piece of cake with icing or jello with fruit.

Just as children delight when they make a new friend or tell a story, many people came to life as their stories were heard. Darryl told me with pride about a job he would start at the Westin Hotel in a month. Ralph, who was looking for a job, didn't grow up in church, but he follows Jesus' teaching and feels we all need the Kingdom of God on earth. I thought Esther's smile was going to pop right off her face as she talked about her daughters and granddaughters living in Kenya and her visit to them last year.

From Jackie:
 
As more of the project coordinator of the day, my two kids and I were more of  "floaters" after they so diligently gave of their time and energy to help with setup that morning.  Once that was accomplished we were the three musketeers out to make a difference as best we could.  
 
On our journey my children and I made three wonderful connections, one of laughter, provisions and friendship.  
 
We sat down with a table of spirited men, Rudy, Chico and a few others.  They chatted openly about their appreciation of the yummy ham, they were so happily eating and asked if I made the food and if so, could they move in with us :)  I of course, had them all chuckling as my daughter immediately jumped on that letting them know mommy does not love to cook, but thank you for the complement :)  I continued to share a story with Rudy about how I had a special cat at home named Rudy and how we came to select his name last Christmas.  He was taken back by the story and I could tell we immediately bonded with this young man.  He was so pleased!  The kids and I did not want to go, yet we had to make room for the other guests! 
 
Next, we met two gentlemen who approached me about the fruit and cookies from Trader Joes. They are filmmakers who come each Sunday to drop off fruit, snacks, and all kinds of treats at the square. What a blessing!  Given our big celebration, they didn't want to intrude on that Sunday, so Cortney and I made a decision to take the fruit and cookies thinking those items would be perfect to give away after the celebration.  As God would only know, we ran out of cake, and the Snowman cookies were exactly what was needed to complete our dessert after all.   He does provide, and he knows exactly what we need.  That was so comforting to me.  Everyone got what they needed and more.  His work happens right before our eyes... Sometimes the little things are the big things....
 
Friendship, I met a gal, who had lost her husband not too long before, she was such a kind woman.  Loving and full of sweetness.   I could both see and feel the sorrow in her eyes, they looked like green marbles.  Someone you want to love, hold and take care.  Someone I will never forget, and someone whom I will pray for and think about every day.
 
I was also reminded that it's the people I see every day that need love and support as well!  I am thankful for everyone who helped out!
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From Mel:

Hi Ya’ll, I’m writing this after I just finished watching the last part of “We were Soldiers” with Mel Gibson. I’ve been hesitant about relating my experience especially after reading about such inspiring stories. After going through the food line I found a table with an empty seat and sat down wondering how to begin. There was one other person at the table from Missio but I don’t remember her name. The discussion was lively; one elderly man who was in need of a second hip replacement, an “ex” marine whose name tag read “Chainsaw”  (there really are no “ex” marines), and a young man who had just come to Seattle looking for work. After a few people left we were joined by Curtis and his two lovely kids whose names I also don’t remember, sorry, I have a terrible memory. Anyway the older gentleman told about how painful his hip was and how he had been postponing his second replacement. He also told about a son who had rejected him and had not seen him in years. I was apparent that this was more painful than his bad hips. Curtis and I asked him if we could pray for him and he consented saying “I guess it can’t hurt anything.” After praying for healing for his hip problems and healing for his relationship with his son the old man got up and limped away. He did not seem too reassured. Next we prayed for “Chainsaw,” he was very positive and thanked us for the dinner and prayer. I left him with the words “The Lord sometimes blesses us in strange ways,” and he wholeheartedly agreed. Afterwards we prayed for the young man who was looking for work; he was very grateful and felt uplifted.

This is where the story changes. At the table next to me was seated a young man who we all refer to as “Animal” and another young man who I believe was a friend or acquaintance. They were both loud, obnoxious, vulgar, disrespectful,etc… I could go on but I think you get it. I tried to talk to them and made a little headway with Animal’s friend but no such luck with Animal himself. I was having trouble partly due to my bad hearing but much more so because I fell into an attitude of anger and judgment. How could they be so disruptive and disrespectful of  people who had given up their Easter Sunday to offer them a free meal and show them that they were cared for? I’m not sure how things worked out for the two young men as the service came to an end and I got busy loading up things to return to PLCC. I was very disappointed that I did not handle the situation better. Later that night(3:00A.M.) the Lord woke me up and chided me for the way I reacted to these young men and pointed out my mistakes. Over the next few days with help from the HP team and my men’s study group I was reminded that those men were not the enemy; they were the ones I was supposed to be helping. The enemy here was Satan ,not these young men, they were his victims just as I had once been.

From Dena:                                     

It has been a pleasure to read the stories What a terrific way to see the bigger picture of God's work on Resurrection Day.

­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­From Tamara Buchan (Blog Post):

Myself and Dreamer at Occidental Square

KINGDOM OF GOD COMES TO EARTH

From Susmitha:

I was so glad that I was able to go to Occidental Square. It was quite an
experience to see so many people living in such hard conditions. I didn't
get to talk to too many besides small talk while handing out the candies. I
hope to be more involved in these activities and my children had a good
experience seeing so many underprivileged people too. There was one man that
came by to ask if I have a pair of gloves. I wish I had thought of bringing
some warm clothes to hand out. I will keep it in mind for the next time. One
of the women was screaming expletives at the other end of the candy table. I
was handing out candy to this gentleman and he said, "Sorry about her. Thank
you so much for what you are doing". That was such a kind gesture. There
were so many of them that looked very gentle and in need of a kind word and
love. My 5 year old got into the spirit of it and wrote on one of the bags
"Jesus is allways whith you" in her best guess spelling. I was thankful to
God for touching my children’s hearts too through the people over there.
 

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