Midnight at Wally World

I'm officially a week late with this post but better late than never. Last Friday we had the opportunity to do Midnight Outreach, which normally consists of going to the streets of North Baton Rouge and the 'gentlemen's clubs'. This time we switched it up a little and swung by Wal-Mart before we hit the clubs.

It was the craziest thing...ten o'clock at night and the place was jumping! We trolled the parking lot and handed out roses to unsuspecting ladies; women rushing in to get groceries and women rushing out with screaming kids. Although there were a few who gave us a curt 'no thanks', the majority of them were excited and grateful for their free rose. We ran into a few people who recognized the HPC truck; one of whom watches Pastor Dino faithfully. It was great.

After Wal-Mart we headed to more familiar territory: the strip clubs on Airline and the Hooters on Seigen and College. Everyone was glad to see us; glad to be remembered.

I wonder how many of the ladies dancing at the clubs ever planned on ending up there. I don't imagine it's a lifetime dream for any of them. I imagine it's a place you find yourself one day; like a bad dream you can't wake up from. I believe God sends people into the lives of others to nudge them out of their slumber, to help them awaken from their nightmare. I believe that is what Midnight Outreach is all about. If only for a moment, we nudge them and remind them that they are loved. Many will drift back to sleep when we walk away, but I believe that all will have a glimmer of hope in the midst of their darkness.

God, let us all bring hope. In Jesus' name.