A long awaited prayer answered - off the streets

A story from the streets in San Diego

About two years ago, we would regularly see a woman named Ruby. In the beginning she was more closed off, but over time she opened up more. Different conversations over time and gifting her with a tent and blankets helped with the relationship-building process. She would share with us that she wants to get off the streets, but she is so frustrated that she still was not able to. We would encourage her to get on the housing list and to not give up hope, and we would pray with her. We would pray together for Jesus to open up the door. Some of the other topics we talked about with her were about forgiveness. She had experienced much hurt and anger towards those that have done her wrong. Along with those things, we would often pray together for God to open a door to get off the cold pavement.

We haven’t seen Ruby for a long time. It must have been almost a year ago when we saw her the last time. This month as we were going through the area, we all of a sudden saw a familiar face. It was Ruby. She said friendly hi. Ruby looked especially put together, and we told her how great she looks. We said that we haven’t seen each other for so long, and how happy we are to see her. She then said that she still has no phone but is getting there with all the other stuff. She looked at us very excited and said that she is now off the streets. She shared that every once in a while she comes here with the bus to say hi to her friends that she has known for a long time. Ruby said that she is so thankful because she is now able to live with relatives. We were so happy, and we thanked God for answering her prayer. She smiled and said, “Thank you so much for being around here and encouraging people. It really makes a difference.” Isn’t it amazing how God works in these precious lives. 

Oftentimes when a person receives healing from Jesus and surrenders to God, then we later hear stories of what else Jesus has been doing in their life. Many of them we might never hear about, but how beautiful when God lets us see how He cares for His children. For some it happens quickly, and for many others it is a process. A process worth fighting for. What a patient and kind God we have. (April, 2024)