Day 8 : Anglicans on the Streets | Not Alone Ministries

“And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in.” -Isaiah 58:12, ESV

“Walking with a friend in the dark is better than walking alone in the light."― Helen Keller

This week, we are connecting the evil of human trafficking with the conditions that lead to predators having confidence they will be able to manipulate: vulnerability.

Vulnerability takes innumerable forms. It is the condition of being exposed, open to harm and danger. In the ancient world, cities would build walls around themselves as a means of defense from those who would seek to do harm. We pray over others that God would provide a hedge of protection physically, emotionally, and spiritually (Job 1:10). But what happens when that wall is damaged, that barrier removed? What is our role in identifying places of vulnerability and rebuilding walls in our neighborhoods and communities?

Not Alone Ministries partners with local churches to create communities for single moms to find hope, healing, and wholeness. This organization has chosen to focus on one vulnerable group in our communities, single moms and their children.

Whether providing housing support to keep these families from experiencing homelessness or fostering deep relational connections and ties with local churches, they are seeking to repair the breaches in these families.

As we have been focusing on the evils of trafficking, remember that we all can be bearers of justice and peace. Sometimes it’s the little actions that collectively bring safety and protection. Not Alone tells one such story of a school teacher who lives near the school her teenage daughter attends, but was unable to get her there safely due to her work schedule. Because of several factors, the teenage girl was at risk in walking to school. The team at Not Alone jumped in and created a safe carpool plan to ensure that this girl could get to and from school and her mom could work.

Is this a small thing, or is it life-changing?

Vulnerable single mothers can be protected from oppressive conditions and manipulative opportunists. Their children and teenagers can be shielded from being targeted by predators and people who would want to take advantage of them. It is possible to avert abusive circumstances when God, through his people, offers covering and care.

Repair the Breach

In chapter 3 of Nehemiah, there are 38 names listed of those were involved in rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem. Each of them, with very different trades, titles, and economic backgrounds took a section of the wall and focused their energies there. By working together and doing their part, the wall was rebuilt and worship was restored.

As we seek to be “repairers of the breach, restorers of the streets to dwell in,” what is the section of wall to which you are called? If it is single moms and their children, M25i ministries like Not Alone would love to partner with you and your church.