An Opportunity for Healing

When I first met Rick, it was during a Sunday service at Church Under the Bridge. With tears pouring from his eyes, he approached me gently and quietly, asking if I would pray for him. Rick openly shared that he needed prayer because he was struggling with alcoholism—a condition that had deeply impacted my Daddy and stirred painful memories from my childhood. In Rick’s eyes, I saw a reflection of my Daddy’s brokenness. I knew that God had made my Daddy new, and He could do the same for Rick.  I was given the gift of taking Rick's hands in mine, just as Jesus would do.

Years ago, before Bags of Grace, I couldn’t have imagined standing here, praying for someone who reminded me of so much darkness from my past. But because of God’s love, I was able to pour that love into my prayers for Rick. Alongside another volunteer known for her prayerful spirit, we bowed our heads and lifted Rick up, praying for freedom from the chains of addiction, for strength, and for the hope only God can bring. In that simple moment of prayer, I felt God at work, and I believe that Rick is destined for great things for His glory.

Bags of Grace gives the Body of Christ this opportunity—not only to meet the physical needs of our neighbors but to offer the healing touch of prayer. Each connection, each moment spent with our neighbors, is a chance to show them that they are loved and valued by God. And in doing so, we are reminded again and again of the kindness, grace, and hope that God pours into each of us, no matter our past or our struggles.

-Rita