Sometimes the needs in this city and the total sense of hopelessness within those needs, consume me. I would love to say that over the past year and a half of living in Milwaukee and throughout my three summers of being a part of Next Step that I have seen God tangibly provide for those needs, that I have seen Him drastically transform this city to look more and more like His Kingdom on earth. The truth is, I do get overwhelmed by this city’s desperate need for Christ and for revival. But what is also truth, is that God is sovereign, He is greater than the needs of this city, and He is far more active than I can physically see or comprehend.
Throughout this past year in Milwaukee, God has been rising up leaders and putting in place more supports to come alongside of Next Step’s partners to work together in unique ways towards block transformation throughout the city.
The Woodlands has been receiving city-wide attention for the first time! The city has hired more staff to come alongside of Neva Hill in the Woodlands to implement programs for the youth and continue to provide resources for families. This summer Next Step will be partnering with Neva and the city to build a playground for the kids in the neighborhood which will provide a safe, fun space for all of the kids who live in those 500 units. These projects, support, and resources are huge for the Woodlands and the Lord is truly providing for the neighborhood.
Adullam Outreach has started up their job training program, Custom Cottage, and the building is wrapping up most of their construction projects. The Lord has continued to bring new volunteers and staff to Adullam and the ministry is now ready to reach out to the community more. To really address the spiritual and physical needs in the neighborhood. Adullam is now hoping to buy the vacant lot next to the building that has become overgrown and dumping grounds in the neighborhood. Next Step hopes to partner with Adullam to clean-up the lot and create a community space for outreach and cookouts. The Lord has provided so much for Adullam and their facility and now He is beginning to open up opportunities for more to be done for the community itself, utilizing that amazing facility.
Epikos Church, is a new partner this year and the church I attend in Milwaukee. Pastor Kurt, lives in the neighborhood right where Epikos north side campus is located. The Lord has given him the vision to work towards block transformation in his own neighborhood, using Epikos and other partnerships like Next Step to work towards that. This summer I am so excited for Next Step to partner with Pastor Kurt’s neighborhood to do home repair projects and beautification projects.
As I have began to meet with partners and talk about vision for this summer, I am now overwhelmed in a whole new way. I am overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness. To hear the hearts behind these visions for block transformation in Milwaukee’s neighborhoods and to then see the opportunities God has provided to make that process possible, has been the greatest reminder of God’s sovereignty and that He is truly working to revive this city.
