Pablo

This is a picture of the guy we mentioned last week who backed out of rehab and returned to the streets. Pablo isn't his real name but just helps us to give you updates to call him something. When we first met Pablo in 2001 he was a young kid like any other; strong, cocky, fun... He did a video interview for us about life on the streets which we showed in a few churches.

Here is a very short video of him now. It shows the terrible devastation caused by a few short years of drug use and life on the streets. It reminds me of Proverbs 14:12 - There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

Even in this state Pablo prefers to live on the streets. This is and always will be an incredibly difficult and emotionally draining ministry. Lamentations 2:19 says: Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at the head of every street. Our point in posting this video is not to upset you. We want you to see the reality of the ministry and encourage you to keep praying earnestly for these dear kids. Pablo is not the only one and there are so many headed in the same direction as Pablo if the enemy has his way. Pray for the MEFI team who love these kids with God's love.

The team were back on the streets this week and already there are some kids who seem to be ideal for inviting to the Centre in the mornings. One kid when asked what he would like to do with his life said, "I'd like to do what you do and rescue kids from the streets." Later that day he asked to be taken to rehab but when asked if he would sign a contract (indicating the importance of the decision and his commitment to it) he backed out.

Sandra also came back to the Centre this week. She has left Beto who was physically abusing her and has her kids with her. She is asking for help but if you were following the story from before then you will agree that she needs to earn the trust of the team. She will receive help but not on a plate (e.g. she will wash her clothes by hand for a bit, as is normal here, rather than in the washing machine). We are delighted she has come back of course and she still has heaps of potential to reach other street kids. Please continue to pray for Sandra.