I Need Back up !!!!!

About 2 weeks ago, I was out for a walk in downtown Portland Oregon. It was 5:30 pm with dry streets a pleasnt Surprise in this neck of the concrete jungle world. I walked from block to block following the pedestrian lights leading. It is a game Cynthia and I love to play. We call it Red Dude white dude. Whichever one is lit that is where we cross. Found some great streets and restaurants this way.

Well as I walked all of a sudden, I noticed I was praying in the spirit, so I went with it and said ok, God whatever you have in mind I am up for it. Therefore, I continued following the lights somewhat ironic, you think Ha ha!

About five or six blocks later, I came in sight of “Pioneer court house square” Portland’s Meeting Hub well at least in my mind; others may choose to drop in at the river, each to his own. So yes, the lights and not the voices this time led me to the square.

I arrived at a light at the entrance to a store Called “Nordstrom’s” across from Starbucks coffee that was situated on the NW corner of pioneer sqr. Two Street musicians were playing stringed instruments so I stopped to listen. All this time I was praying in the spirit. Then the light changed to the white Dude and I had the urge to cross to the NW corner of the square and cross I did.

The yearly Christmas tree took center stage (Middle of sq.) with its brilliant colorful light display, better than last years I thought. Starbucks was packed as per usual and throngs of commuters were waiting for the Tri Met train, it was rush hour.

I stood at the corner of the square observing the scene before me. Then I saw him or more likely heard his voice above the hustle and bustle. A guy in his late forties was standing with a bible in his left hand sharing the gospel. I watched him for some time and asked the Holy Spirit what he wanted me to do. Two people were beginning to heckle him so I quietly moved between him and them and prayed they would be quiet and they ceased. Then I noticed a women wearing a red coat in her forty’s with her back to the preacher who I could tell was listening and struggling with inner turmoil so I prayed for her. All this time I just prayed in the spirit and acted nonchalant.

The preacher was incredibly humble yet preached a bold powerful message, not loud and obnoxious or judgmental but like a father talking to his children. Just as he finished the train pulled in, the women in red walked through the open doors and moments later the train left, and the sidewalk was virtually empty for a brief period.

I walked over and introduced myself, his name was Dean Gilbert. Turns out we both used to belong to Youth with a Mission (YWAM) years back. He told me he was glad I was there, as he never liked to preach at pioneer Square it was a hard crowd. He told me he had prayed for back up and I showed up.

We talked a little longer exchanged numbers, then Cynthia called and I left to drive her home from her office. Love divine appointments !!!!

Cheers!!!

Happy new year!

Mike :0)