Recently, after returning from a time of evangelism in downtown Minneapolis, I was reflecting on the never-ending harvest fields.  Years ago, we had a team that would go downtown and witness and worship on street corners.  We also hosted three conferences called “Regions Beyond” for equipping for the harvest. 

There came a point in my life where I became tired and frustrated with seeing little fruit.  In prayer one morning, I knelt down and resigned as an evangelist.  Not long after that, the Holy Spirit directed me to Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  Take My yoke…”.

Throughout the following years, it has been a surrendering of my yoke and learning to take His.  Remember the expression, “we need to work smarter, not harder”?

I am saying all this to say that the most recent trip downtown with longtime friend and Forerunner team veteran, Jeff Boyer, was a brief but fruitful and peaceful time at Mocha Momma’s.  During our time on Nicollet Avenue, we encountered four people which we had conversations with and were able to pray with three of them.

 My heart went out to the first young lady, Tianna, who was so frail and strung out on drugs.  Jeff and I prayed and declared deliverance, freedom, and salvation over her.  Time and space can’t express the rest of our time, but it’s all out there; the hurting and broken ones Jesus talked about in Matt. 9:36. “But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd.”

Remember friends Acts 1:8, “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me…”.

Go in the power of His Spirit, taking His yoke and proclaiming His Kingdom and His gospel.

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During this past Christmas season and winter months, there have been four different ministries we have been able to partner with in outreach

Booth Manor, with Judy Schreiner, is Salvation Army’s Sr. apartment complex.  The folks were so grateful & receptive as we sang Christmas songs, shared the message of hope, and had a wonderful time of fellowship and tacos!  I remember one woman who seemed so somber, but towards the end was tearing up.

Marie Sandvik Center in South Minneapolis we again sang and preached.  We have been working with this ministry for years and those who come to receive a meal and clothing, not only have their physical needs met but also spiritual needs.

Metro Hope Re-hab for drug and alcohol is one of the oldest in Minneapolis.  After serving them a meal, fellowship, and worship the word we shared was “Prepare Him Room”!  The Hebrew meaning of prepare is confirm, direct, establish, order, perfect.A greater work of preparation in 2025 for more of God’s purpose to take place in our lives and for the advancement of His will and Kingdom.

Finally, Mocha Momma’s Coffee  downtown Minneapolis.  Many have asked if we still do a coat give-a-way.  Our winter event we’ve trimmed down to handing out zip lock baggies that contain a hat, gloves, socks, and hand warmers.  Many homeless find temporary warmth in the Minneapolis public library hallway next to Mocha Momma’s.  Jeff Boyer and I have made several trips downtown where our packets are gone in no time.  Many agree to let us pray with them concerning their needs.  Pray for Melanie Leehy, owner and operator of Mocha Momma’s, as she ministers in this strategic location.

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For some sometime now we have been waiting and working on a time for one of the men we mentor to be baptized.  The day finally came and Forerunner, along with Metro Hope Ministries were able to be a part of baptizing James Taylor, aka Jimbo. 

James is on staff at Metro Hope and we have known him for some time, seeing his growth in his love for the Lord.  This was a big event as he publicly realized what Romans 6:3-5 says, “…being baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ Jesus”.  A new day and a new life.

Metro Hope staff member Ross was also baptized.  He has experienced a real growth in his walk with the Lord.  Metro Hope is one of the oldest drug rehab centers in the Twin Cities.  We are humbled and honored to be able to minister there at chapels, cooking meals, and special events.

We had a great time getting together on a hot and humid Sunday afternoon, celebrating our years of being together as the guitar and mentorship group of Forerunner.  We ate, had fellowship, and yes, broke out the guitars for a short time of praise. 

God is so good and so faithful in His keeping power over us through the years.  There was a sense of family.  Thank you, our Forerunner friends and family, who have supported and sown into this group and other endeavors of Forerunner.