What's Going On?

Hey all, it's Savanna. I realize it's been a while since I've written. Part of it has to do with my lazyness and being busy with other things, and some of it has to do my not knowing how to sum up all that's been going on in a short blog. The title relates to the past few weeks because it's what I've been asking about a lot of things in life lately. Such as what is going on in my heart, in my walk with God, or perhaps the next morning, or with DTS group in general, what's going on after DTS, etc. And then it gets to deep questions such as what's going on in the TL to make it like it is, what's going on in God's plans for this place, etc.
Just a few minutes ago Linda and I were outside helping one of our "regulars" get tucked in his sleeping outside our door. Many if not all nights other people on the streets tease him or beat on him and he is nearly defensless. He has been around our base for a very long time, as far as I know way before I even got here, and the people here have been working with him for a long time to try to help him out and get into a better situation. The problem is that he doesn't have a place to live, and he has bi-polar disorder and other mental illnesses so it's hard to get him into a place or with that state and when he chooses to drink. But he is such a kind and sweet man that I know loves the Lord in his heart. Sad to say, but sometimes we pray that he'll get arrested so he can get a good meal and shelter in jail or get help in a hospital at least for the night. (He chooses to leave the hospitals even though they help him). I guess I can't really relay the situation back to you in full because I don't know all about it, but I know that at least every other night we see him, and his moods vary, but he is a nice gentleman that needs God's protection, comfort, and mercy. So I'm asking you to pleast lift him up in your prayers - and the others in the Tenderloin district because even though we get to take care of this man as best as possible, we aren't a facility for that kind of care, and there are so many other people in the same situation that are living on the streets. But it's NOT a hopeless routine, I refuse to believe it is, because they are all God's children, and He is using His followers to help the lost.
I have to be honest, as I walk around and see all the depressing situations around here, and think about the disheartening things all around the world, my heart crumbles and my mind goes haywire, asking myself what can be done? What can I do? GOD, HOW CAN I STOP THIS FROM HAPPENING?! Then I get frustrated at the Devil, at myself for my inability to make things change, and at mankind for their selfishness and lazyness. But the Lord, as gracious as He is, reminded me that it's not my fault. He asked me to pray for it. He reminded me of how POWERFUL prayer is. And it's so true! So I guess my prayer at this point is to be reminded to pray constantly for the each end of the world, especially when my mind gets disrupted with the thoughts about the evil things all around. This week we learned about Spiritual Warfare, and Dean Sherman spoke wonderfully about how each prayer is counted for, and when we start praying for nations, changes start happening. Praise God!

I have to tell you something that was incredible, other than the awesome teachings we've gotten over the past few weeks about evangelism and spiritual warfare. On Valentine's Day San Francisco held a city wide pillow fight at Embarcadero. A few friends and I went down to watch the fun and eventually joined in - it was a blast! I honestly think every city should do it, and more than once a year. It's a great community event, and a good way to get any frustrations out in a safe manor! Our DTS group did a Secret Valentine gift exchange, which I feel turned out really good. It was a good way to get together and share love with one another and get everyone laughing and smiling!
On another good note - God's still working on me! Earlier in the DTS one of our leaders sensed that this is going to be a messy DTS, and I can be honest and say that it has been and I'm expecting that it still will be. But I think I'm ok with that now. I just think of the book of James when it talks about being joyous through trials because it's going to make your stronger in the end! I've felt like a slump (if that's even a noun) pretty much this whole DTS when it comes to my faith, wanting to grow and be "where I used to be." But I know it's not going to happen! This week we were challenged to meditate on Luke 14:25-35, and honestly it spoke to me differently than what I think most others got from it. Especially when Jesus is talking about the salt losing it's flavor and it not being restored. Honestly, I feel like a grain of salt that has lost it's flavor, and it breaks my heart because my heart so longs to be passionate and on fire for God and his people, but lately it's been hiding underneath my pride and selfishness. But knowing how great God's grace is, even though my "flavor" won't be restored to it's old way, I believe God is making me into a new "grain of salt" with exceptional flavor! I tell you the truth, me (and we) are right at the turning point, and it's so exciting knowing that GOd is so faithful to pick us up. I've been so challenged lately with my heart and my walk with Christ, and while it's been a bitter-sweet, the sweet is going to be SOOOO much greater!
Ok I feel like I've written a book, and sorry but I don't even think I've covered even half of the things God has been doing, but have faith that my life and the others at the base are being worked on beyond our understanding at this point. Once again I ask for your prayers that God provides finances for this DTS. I'm still about $5,200 short, and other students have even more to raise. If you've ever thought about possibly contributing even a little bit, please pray about donating because even a litte helps as it all adds up. I'm also selling photography prints for donations, as well! You can visit www.flickr.com/photos/savannawatkinson to take a peek if you're interested. I love and miss you all back at home. Take care and God bless!!!

-Savanna