I love organizational systems. I love them even more when they are color coded. I can remember when I got excited about going back to school because it meant that I could color code my folders, binders and tabs and make a color coded schedule. Even now my calendar at work is a mosaic of appointments and tasks, each with it’s own color and sub color. I’m even crazy enough that the binder I keep for New Hope stuff (lesson plans and outlines for YES Kids, youth group, Sunday school and Sweet Night planning) has the tabs color matched to their calendar color. I feel better and more in control of my life if it’s well organized.
But there’s a type of color coding that is going on in my neighborhood that isn’t helping anyone be more in control… It’s based on the color of your skin and more so the color of your shirt. The last six nights in a row shots have rung out, last night not even that late. Texts and facebook messages start flying around as we try to figure out if anyone got hit this time. There is no bigger lack of control then waiting to hear if it was one of our kids who got hit at the playground in front of an abandoned school at 9:30 on a Wednesday night. Back-to-school season this year finds parents who are fearful to let their kids walk two blocks from the bus stop because it’s gotten so bad. Instead of worrying about getting their school supplies organized, they are worried about getting their back packs and supplies stolen. Our young guys are getting caught up in the street life before they even leave elementary school. Every piece of that is out of control.
I started this blog with the intention of being honest in sharing my city loving adventure with you. In the spirit of honesty, the adventure isn’t so lovely right now. The people I know who live or work in this neighborhood, whether as part of New Hope or Urban Impact or Allegheny Youth Development, have all had a tough week. It’s disheartening, it’s frustrating and it’s scary… but it’s more reason to keep doing what we’re doing.
Praying to the one who brings order out of chaos and peace out of turmoil.
Great post….and so true. It amazes me that our young people are willing to kill over “turf” they don’t own and the color of a shirt. Like you said, the work we all do is so important. We have to share the hope of Christ with our broken youth.
Today, I greeted a beautiful soul… beautifully freckled… colorfully adorned, with an extended kiss, and a most genuine embrace by an armfull of enduring tan, adorned in silver silk…colors. And I thought, what if…..this wasn’t our church, the cafe was not, this neighborhood was turf off limits…..How could I be so fortunate to know this person…….God only knows. I sure am glad He does. Thank you God!
Dave- thanks for the prayer my friend. God is the only one that will bring peace.
Carmen- so thankful for you and your commitment to this ministry. love.
Buddy- this freckle-faced lady is thankful for the hugs and support of the tan armed man. The difference you make in my life and the lives of the kids in this neighborhood is a huge blessing.