The 6 P’s of Uptown Bethesda
(adapted from Untamed by Deb and Alan Hirsch and influenced by my experiences)

Prevenience:
My Wesleyan will appreciate this quote from Untamed about the way God has infused all soil before we ever arrive on the scene: “John Wesley called this reality ‘prevenient grace’, and he built his entire ministry squarely on it! He really believed God was always preparing the way for the preaching of the gospel, that he was at work in every person, wooing them into relationship in and through Jesus.”

God has been at work in Uptown from day 1.  Before even packing my bags in Naperville, I determined to spend the first few weeks getting to know those who were working in the community.  Some of my closest friends in the neighborhood are Unitarians and I believe, although they do not hold to the same critical doctrine I do, that they have been instruments of God’s love and compassion in this community.  I strongly admire their commitment to the poor and marginalized of Uptown and refuse to NOT learn from them.

I have also made friends at Uptown Baptist Church as well as associated with Emmaus Ministries – an agency dedicated to helping bring freedom and stability to men in prostitution.  Jesus People USA (JPUSA) live half a block from my house and I have thoroughly enjoyed worshiping with them on Sundays.

Although I have not made connections everywhere (the truth is, “networking” is very difficult for me) I desire to carry in my very physical demeanor the reality that I am not the first on the scene and I am wisest to be fully aware of my naivety of the many people God has planted in this neighborhood past and present.

Proximity:
For me, Proximity required a geographical move.  However, I can easily admit that the last place I lived, I was not living in Proximity with anyone but the other 2 people in the house.  I not only did not know my neighbors, but I avoided them.  Proximity is slightly more than a geographical decision.  Proximity is geographical intentionality – therefore, visiting the same cafés and restraints, establishing the same commute, joining a club or community group – are all examples of Proximity.

I have a lot of room to grow in all of these P’s – but the biggest hurdle for me in Proximity has been to move into Uptown.  For over six months I was visiting Uptown once a week and “investing” in a community at a local shelter.  I am now in the neighborhood – no “escape car” parked in the lot outside.  I walk home when I’m done playing UNO with Pete and Verna.

Since moving here I have established a consistent presence by sharing meals at the local “soup kitchens”.  Monday night meals are my favorites as I have nearly 3 rounds of dinner to join my friends in!  I also get to see many that I don’t otherwise see.  There’s a coffee shop that I routinely visit too.  I’m not feeling like I’m making too much of an impact there – something tells me these are the real cool kids of Uptown, but I am determined to be consistent and hope to have opportunities arise eventually!

I have also fought to get to know my neighbors.  I moved here primarily because of the high concentration of marginalized people here, but if I shut my door to my neighbors, I would be compartmentalizing my life and calling as a Christ-follower.  So I keep my doors open.  I have developed awesome friendships with several neighbors that I am grateful for – especially as the winter months approach!  I have been loved on more by my neighbors than I have had the opportunity to love on them!  I am convinced that living a generous life pays back in multiples when we give without thought!