God's Idea of a Harvest Party?

It started as an idea to grill together, as adults who have worked in NETwork’s garden. But the moment our grill began to glow, children came from all directions, something I had not anticipated. “Can we eat too?” My first split-second change of thought: “Well, go ask your families first.” I had planned for 12 volunteers, but now nearly every kid comes back saying,
“I can stay!” One even invited her mom! My second split-second mental adjustment: okay, anyone who eats, must work. We will gather more food. We will stir-fry, boil, or bathe it in ranch dressing, the Kids Club favorite. “You and you, fill this pan with those sweet little yellow tomatoes! You and you, help the griller! You and you, pick more green beans! And this team, set a place for each at the tables.” What? Now 27 guests! Another split-second choice on my part: press on, in faith. Let no one be turned away. Quiet the crowd! Say a prayer of blessing! Tell everyone in the room, “Gather ‘round! Rejoice!” The miracle of people from many ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds sitting together, sharing good food and conversation made me blink tears. I walked out back into the night air, only to find three more people!

“Can we eat?” Was this a simple request, or a challenge? “I’m on probation,” one of the teens volunteers. I sensed what they want to communicate: “We’re part of the tough group that hangs around here. So, what about us?” Another breathe of prayer, another split-second decision. “Umm, everyone inside worked to help make this meal. It’s only fair that they should eat first. But if there’s enough, you can come too.” Going back inside, I tell the helpers, “Cut the beef franks in half! Make the little that’s left enough.” Then to the three, I say, “Come. Take a seat with those who have worked hard to make this happen. Get to know us, and let us get to know you. Look around. This is what a community garden should be. Sharing. Friendship. Good food. Celebration. You are welcomed.” In that moment, I had another split-second thought change influenced by words from Jesus’ wedding banquet story, in Matthew 22: “Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you can find.”

- Denise

Our Guarantee to You

A few nights ago, our kids hosted a wonderful event for the community, called Jazz in the Garden. With 150 neighbors, supporters, parents, and kids showing up here for an evening that featured a live jazz trio, it was quite a success! Our youth found great joy in giving tours of our community garden, serving fresh appetizers, performing newly learned songs on the piano, and showing people an art gallery our kids and staff put together. By the looks on kids’ faces, it was evident that this is a special place; they’re delighted to show all who visit!

It’s been an incredible summer of ministry here at NETwork. While we have more news to celebrate than fits in a newsletter, I’m also reminded - almost daily - of the numerous challenges children and teens in our neighborhood face. Here’s a short list of what’s stood out most recently: food insecurity, neglect, drug and alcohol abuse, sexual temptation, negative peer pressure, a lack of purpose and self-worth, parents who are incarcerated or absent, and racism. While every person has their own story, it’s apparent that most of the youth we serve are quite vulnerable, many in a variety of ways. The need for positive opportunities and role models is incredibly apparent! In the midst of this context, please join us in praying that the Holy Spirit would give hearts a hunger for Jesus and His ways! The needs are great in our community, but our God is greater!

As new staff members and volunteers have joined this summer, I’ve been greatly encouraged by this exceptional team. They are incredibly passionate about reaching children and teens! Paul exhorts us, in his letter to the churches of Colossae and Laodicea, to clothe ourselves with “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience,” to “forgive as the Lord forgave you,” and to “put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” He continues, “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly...” One of the things that blesses me most about this team is that they are actively living out Paul’s challenging words!

As we gear up for another year of after school ministry, we invite you to join in on the action. We especially want to encourage you to consider serving directly with children or teens. Here’s our guarantee to you: if you invest in building relationships with these youth, it will be rewarding! We’re also in need of people to give snacks, financial supporters, and perhaps most importantly, prayer warriors! We consider your support to be a sacred gift.

With much gratitude,
Ben

At the Piano

“Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love.”
– Paul, to the church in Ephesus

Being brand new to NETwork as the Arts Director, I shadowed existing programs for the first two weeks to see how art is already being integrated into their daily activities. I was really excited to start interacting with everyone and build relationships with some of the kids. This seemed like a perfect way to begin.

For my first week, I helped out with Kids Club. Time seemed to fly by as I met child after child and tried to remember all of their names. One thing continuously remained in my mind: their precious smiles. From art activities to snack, playing games outside on the court, or digging in the garden, each child loved being here. I could see God moving within the fast-paced environment and, in some ways, felt overwhelmed by the events of the day.

Soon enough it was time to drive everyone home. As I grabbed a few things, a noise caught my attention and I had to stop. There sitting at the old piano in our office was a little boy and a volunteer playing the tune “Falling Slowly” from the movie Once. The music drew me in and I couldn’t take my eyes off the two of them. As the volunteer counted 1, 2, 3, 4, the duet repeated over and over again. When mistakes were made they would stop and start over, and the volunteer would patiently encourage the little boy to keep trying.

Tears welled up in my eyes. After a crazy afternoon full of activities this little boy want- ed to step aside and play the piano. The volunteer dropped what he was doing to give the boy time to practice. Through this artistic outlet, he demonstrated Jesus to the child. As mistakes and wrong notes were played, he patiently, gently, and humbly taught him perseverance. He made allowance for his faults and loved him in a unique way that not everyone gets to experience. I was overcome with joy and appreciation of how music can impact a child’s life.

God has BIG plans for NETwork through this new arts ministry. This summer we will be offering piano lessons and programs in the performing and visual arts. Sign up, volunteer, or stop by and check us out!

- Jen