How Does God Answer Prayer?

We have talked and prayed about responding to homelessness and the need of the disadvantaged. Last year, on a very snowy night, we took the girls out to check under the bridges and in some other spots to see if there was anyone we could help with blankets, coffee, food or whatever we could. We couldn't find anyone, as by that time, the Bridge (i think) and St.George's had opened up all night to get people off the street - if only to have a place to sit and drink a coffee.

It was encouraging to hear the impact of that simple walk in the snow on our daughter, Alaina. She has a very tender heart for the needs of others. We've talked much about and pray for God's help in responding to social justice needs (prayer for Congo, homeless, needy, etc.). However, we hadn't really talked about the issue above specifically since.

Tonight, while I was braiding Alaina's hair, she says, "Dad, I think that we need to go out again if it gets cold and snowy to check under the bridges. People will need help" We talked about how people are going out even now (yea, Miranda!) and how great that is.

On top of that, I then was able to talk with her that hopefully that won't be happening this year, because our church family is responding. It is awesome to know that Pastor Scott and our church council, in response to a need in our community, have willingly opened up the church as an emergency cold weather shelter with beds and safety this winter. I've heard that around 15 people from Northgate have volunteered to help out at the shelter. I honour all for taking this step because it took money to make some facility upgrades, as well as a commitment that we will alter our schedule to accommodate this when necessary.

As God has answered our prayers for ideas and solutions to help others, as usual it seems that He responds by having us be part of the solution. I am reminded of the following quote

God answers sharp and sudden on some prayers,
And thrusts the thing we have prayed for in our face,
A gauntlet with a gift in it. Elizabeth Barrett Browning:

We (Northgate) have been given the gift of being able to join God in doing some small part of seeing people 'restored'...and my children get to see again the goodness of God work through the people of God... responding positively to needs in the world.