my Vieux Carre Mardi Gras experience

Day 1
My friend Trish dropped me off at the church around 11am. If not for two flat tires, I would've taken my bicycle. Afterall, its only 3 miles from Gentilly to the French Quarter. The church was already busting at the seems with groups from various places coming to Mardi Gras for street evangelism. Pastor Greg and I waited around the church until his wife, Wren, could meet us for lunch. While waiting, David, my closest friend who lives on the street, and I spent our time observing beer trucks drop off beverages at the neighboring Gold Mine Saloon as well as the occasional odd couple who walked down Dauphine Street. Our good friends Cajun and Troy, both street musicians, sat in their van just outside the church doors as they patiently waited for the streets to fill with wandering tourists.
And as we waited for Wren, amidst hunger pains and anxious thoughts, both Pastor Greg and I knew this day would soon collide with the night...for Mardi Gras is upon us.

After subtle salutations and short orientations with the groups at the church, my friend Ricky and I decided to meander at on the streets to see what God had planned for us. I knew I had to send a few emails, so we both decided to walk a ways on Bourbon St., then head towards CC's (Community Coffee) on Royal St.

While on Bourbon, we felt like cowards. Prior to our entry we asked God for courage and boldness to speak. But being so overwhelmed with the chaotic condition we found ourselves in, we soon discovered that even handing out a simple gospel tract became a direct act of God. I told Ricky about my fear of presenting the gospel message, especially when presented like a plan or a formula. Ricky reminded me to let God guide our steps, our words, and our conversations, and He will surely open the door.

And speaking of doors, we came to CC's and for a brief moment thought it was already closed because the door was slightly jammed. It made an obnoxious sound after I forced it open, disturbing the peace in an otherwise peaceful coffee shop. A few seconds later, the man behind me did the exact same thing, and we both began to joke about it while ordering our drinks.

I chose a seat next to the wall, and that same man decided to sit down next to Ricky and me despite the availability of several other tables. Amidst tardy emails and scattered conversations, Ricky and I slowly began to talk with Joelle about life, travel, and as always, the present state of New Orleans. Nearly all New Orleans still talk about the depressing state of the city, and everyone is always providing the two cents worth of wisdom on how to alleviate the situation.

As for Joelle, who currently resides in Germany but is visiting family until mid-February, told us that he wonders if there really is a true solution to the dilemma that is New Orleans. Ricky and I, without hesitation, knew this was an opportunity to share about Jesus, the only true Restorer and Redeemer....

next blog..