God Sent Her

By Rhonda Carter –

Today I followed in Jesus’ footsteps on 15th Street.  I walked into a home, not a house, but a home where life is shared.  Eight students gathered, all from different houses in the neighborhood, yet one family.  They made jokes about each other, teased and laughed, as they shared stories of time spent together; time that has helped shape them into the people they are becoming.  There is much love evident in this place, which is part of the reason that it is a safe haven full of warmth, acceptance, and hope for a bright future for each one of them.  Whether working on homework, making a meal to enjoy together, having Bible study, or just hanging out, each one knows that they belong here.

This home was purchased with the savings of a young college graduate, named Jaime, seeking to obey God and His call to the neighborhood.  She has been a friend, a mom, a confidante, an advocate; she has been Jesus to these kids, loving them unconditionally.

15th Street Youth

15th Street Youth

One day Jaime walked through the neighborhood with a group of kids, the size of the group growing as they made their way down the street.  She bought them all smoothies in Washington Square.  One boy who had joined them along the way, turned and asked Marky who was next to him, “Who is that girl buying us smoothies?”

Without hesitation Marky replied, “God sent her to us.  She works for God.”

I couldn’t have said it better.