Requiem For a Dream

I just had the non-pleasure of watching this very good movie.  If you've never seen it, I would recommend it with a caution.  It is not for children or anyone who is not mature enough to respect the dignity of life.  The characters lose enough of their humanity in the film without outsiders looking to take advantage of them any further.

With that said,  this movie is a dark truth that haunts my neighborhood.  I live in the inner city in a community of Jesus Followers called the Underground.

Learn more about the underground here:   tampaunderground.com

I am constantly trying to expand my vision so that I can see people for who they really are and also I desire to attain an insight that can truly see the pain that someone is going through.   This movie has helped me tremendously in so many areas.   It has enabled me to love people more.

prostitutes.  crack addicts, the elderly, those affected by racism and hatred, and the sexually exploited.     These are all people that I run into every day of my life.  I don't know the facts and figures about their lives, but I know this:  God loves them.  God loves them so much.   I just want to DO SOMETHING after watching this film.   I want to bring the healing power of the kingdom of God into these peoples lives!  My heart is torn and I am broken.  

Lord Jesus,  watch over the prostitutes tonight.  May they feel some indescribable love enter into their minds and hearts.  May they know for just an instant that there is  hope somewhere.  Also Lord, for the young girls addicted to crystal meth, crack, and heroin,  may they find a cure for their addiction before it drives them to the streets.  Before it debases their humanity and their bodies are defiled by men.  Protect these young women.  Protect them Lord.  

Lord Jesus,  I pray for the drug dealers and the pimps.  May they be like Zacheaus the tax collecter.  May they understand your love and offer of forgiveness and may they repent!  They are so guilty of their sins.  They need a saviour.  We all need a saviour Lord.

Lord Jesus,  I pray for the elderly who are alone and suffering.  May they know the God who is with them this instant.  For we are never truly alone.  Please send them love. 

Lord Jesus,  show me how to be the answer to these prayers.  Teach me to be your hands and feet in this city.   Teach me how to give my whole life for those who suffer. Teach me more of your heart Jesus.   I need more of your heart,

Lord Jesus,  I pray for the churches.  May they learn to love the least of these.  May they understand your heart for the poor.  

And lastly, I pray for the Underground.  Thank you for giving me this community.  Thank you for revealing your heart to us.  Thank you for what you've done with us and for us.   Thank you for the new building. Thank you for everything Jesus.  I pray that you will lead Brian, and that he will follow you with everything in his heart.  

Amen