#joyfullyflexible Day 2

8:05am Call from Jeff. Just wanted to let us know that the schedule changed and there was a BBQ/field trip to Como Park planned for today. The day 2 Speed BUMP "schedule" had half of us serving and learning with Jeff Ansorge, the Salvation Army Eastside's resident chef, and the other half working with the day camp kids. We moved the service day so that the group could remain at the building, but the trip followed us. Well if we tried to reschedule it and God put it back on the day we were there then we better go with that flow because He has something in mind. Remember #joyfullyflexible? This was going to be a good time to practice that.

We divide up the group, which was difficult since ALL the kids want to go to Como Park. Ridiculous. The day camp kids are overwhelming so additional leaders go along with the group. Most of them are anxious and withdrawn. By the time they return hours later, the girls are saying everything was awesome. The kids were the same as any other kids – actually opened up to them more. They had much in common from names to food to sports to doing hair and breaking rules. Yay – go God! We all grew in the stretching.

Meanwhile, back at the kitchen we work hard together to prepare the noon meal for 120+ people, learning tricks to making food healthier and tastier. Impressions from the serving line - surprised at how friendly the people were – didn’t expect that. Serving didn't seem like work. (Isn't that how it is when we are doing what God has called us to do?)

Ending our time at the Salvation Army, Jeff shared his journey from executive chef at the Capital Grille to Payne Avenue. And in the process he has imparted dignity to those who many would consider the least among us. He knows the clients by name, by story and remembers who they are - image bearers of our great God.

                                                     
Today was National Night Out. Our host homes invited us to help out (to include eating and having some fun) at their neighborhood block party. #joyfullyflexible - we are learning to love you and find God in the redirects.