3/27/11 I dropped him off by the railroad tracks, cold and windy. The shadow of the Capitol building almost reaches the tracks where James lives. Home of our state government, and home for James. Two houses. One house is up on the hill for all to see, the other is down in the bushes out of sight. But, the light burns very bright, down near the tracks.

James had a birthday last Monday, but wanted a better birthday. He's been praying, repenting, studying, talking, surrendering. He's been sober for quite some time. Last Wednesday, he was born again. Coming up out of the water, he said, "I can tell my light just got brighter! I haven't been this happy in years."

While he dried his hair, James said, "I used to be called Joe, and then, Harley, for the bike I used to ride in when I was in the motorcycle gang. Too many memories go with those names. Too much darkness goes with those names. I want a new name. I want to be called James. That's the name my momma gave me." I told him his new name, James, was the same as the Lord's brother. "That's what I am, the Lord's brother."

"I want a family, I need a church, to be a part of," James said. We invited him to River City Church. He came, but sat in the back Sunday morning. I wandered by his seat to see how he was doing. "I'm getting good vibes here. I want to come back. I could belong here." I told him his light was needed in this place. I shook his hand, "We want you here." He said, "I'm here!"

Lord, I'm glad James' light will be burning bright at River City Church. I'm glad he belongs.

... there will be no more gloom for those who were in distress ... The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned. Isaiah 9:1-2