Mercy Ministry

When most people hear the words, Mercy Ministry; they think of giving food or used clothing to the poor...  True...we are to help in every tangible way we can; but VLM's goal is not to eliminate poverty.  Instead, we strive to make friends with those who would never imagine having a friend like one of us; seeking to help them see the value of who they really are in God's eyes, verses always seeing themselves as what they presently seem to be. 

Reaching the heart was always Jesus' highest goal.  He changed fishermen and tax collectors into disciples simply by saying, "Come and be my friend."  And that nearness and acceptance empowered them to turn the world up-side-down. 

VLM wants to impart a realistic love of God which supersedes much of what is called mercy ministry today.  At times; we give some things as small as a cup of coffee.  At others, we may add a room to a house.  So we know Mercy Ministry includes meeting tangible needs, but we want to do more than that.  We want to make what we do, personal.  Very personal.   Because if we don't reach the heart of the person God sends us to in the parks, the plazas, the streets and canals, well then...we have failed.

"Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food.  If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?  In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead."  (James 2:15-17 NIV)

Most people who volunteer to help us, understand this physical-side of the Gospel.  But the Gospel of Jesus Christ is not pity in good works, but rather, a true connection of relationship made in honest love.  Jesus loved us by identifying with us, where we were.  Thus I send volunteers out with these words: 

"Forget the word 'minister.'  Think of nothing more than the verb 'love.'  Go out and do that.  Love them.  Pity no one.  For if you draw near to them in that spirit, they will know it...and you will do them more harm than good. 

Just go looking for a friend.  Keep it simple.  Love them honestly and simply and doors to hearts will open.  And God will do all the ministering and restoring and teaching from there, through your mouth, your hands, your actions; because real faith only works by love."

There are clearly two sides to the Gospel Beloved.  The Apostle Paul said, "Though I give all my goods to feed the poor...and have not love; it profits me nothing."  (I Cor 13:3)    As we are enabled by financial support; we give food and clothing and whatever other help we can.  

That is the physical connection.  Even more importantly however, we love beyond words with our friendship.  That is Jesus in us, touching a heart.

Please consider helping us take Jesus' friendship and love to the friendless