Raise You Up Ministries is a group of people from all different walks of life, different churches, who have a common love for Jesus and a desire to show Him to our homeless neighbors. Jesus taught that when we give even a cup of water in His name, we do it to Him. With that in mind, we give food, clothing, haircuts, massages, pedicures, job and addiction counseling…along with hugs, smiles, and words of encouragement to our neighbors (who just happen to be homeless).
I believe the success of what we are accomplishing is based on one word – relationship. We make it a goal to see each individual as an individual, and not just another homeless person among the many in Charlotte. Each neighbor has their own unique and sometimes very sad individual story. While they need compassion and not pity, they also need above all else to experience a sense of value. By looking beyond the exterior presentation of an individual who is living on the streets, we look to see the “diamond in the rough”
I met a man while I was serving food, who had a t-shirt with a diamond surrounded by hands making a heart shape. I smiled and commented that the message on the T-shirt was profoundly deep. I explained that, like the diamond, we are all made of the same stuff- carbon. It is the tremendous heat and pressure in dark places that turns us into diamonds. That seemed to encourage him, and I joked that from then on I would call him Mr. Diamond in the rough. It is my prayer that I gave him hope by ascribing value to his person.
We have seen the fruit of this in several ways. One small, but very significant indication, is the neighbors who have gone from being served, to helping to serve others. The first time this happened, and the neighbors helped us in setting up, serving food etc…, it left some of us teary eyed. It was proof that we were making an impact in their lives, they felt that they had something to contribute that was appreciated and acknowledged.
As for me, I honestly feel I have received more than I have given. I may bring a pot of chili to Operation Hug, but I leave with a heart of gratitude for all I do have ; not just the material, but so much more- I have deep meaningful relationships, people who really care for me. I also am learning to love, to value a human life as an incredible thing, no matter what the package it may come in. There is gold , there is a diamond in each of us, simply because we are all created in the image of God. We are all unique and gifted, but sometimes life has obscured that. In forming relationships with the neighbors, I have the opportunity to see that in others, and see that in my own life. As I learn to value others, I have learned to value my own self. That is where I have received more then I have given.
