“Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest” (John 4:35b).

Lakewood, New Jersey is a community like no other. It is rich in culture and diversity. There you will find the largest Hasidic Jewish population outside of Israel, surrounded by a large Hispanic and African-American community, as well as German, Polish and Russian families. Many of the Hispanic people are from Mexico, yet you will meet others from Central and South America. The Lord has brought the nations to our backyard! In the center of the town is a large community square where the locals gather during the day and evening hours. It is there we are bringing the message of hope.

We have an awesome opportunity to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ through our ‘Lakewood Outreaches.’ The people of Lakewood are extremely open and hungry for the love of God. There is much poverty there. Many are bound by alcohol, prostitution, witchcraft and drugs. The purpose of the outreaches is multi-faceted – first and foremost, to present Jesus to the community. Second, we demonstrate the love of Jesus by serving food and drinks to all who come to the outreach. We provide hot dogs, hamburgers, prepared dishes and desserts cooked by local restaurants and volunteers. We bring clothing and toys to give away, all provided through donations.

The outreaches always draw a large crowd. In May, Wal-Mart donated bicycles and scooters, which we distributed to the children. We bring music, dance, mime and drama. The children love to play and dance with us. Many folks share their testimonies. There is always a simple, evangelistic message and prayer is available. Everyone who comes to the square receives a Bible. The Word of God is being sown into the community, and we are seeing the results.

The needs are many; the opportunities are endless; the harvest is truly ready! During the past several outreaches, many people gave their lives to Jesus Christ. Many received prayer and were healed and delivered. There is always a celebration when souls come to Christ and needs are met, both spiritually and practically. At our May outreach, a woman was prayed for, and she reported she felt fire go all over her body; she was saved and healed of back pain that day. At our July outreach, she came back and shared her testimony! To God be the glory! Many alcoholics received prayer to overcome their addictions. Together, a married couple prayed to give their lives to Jesus.

We never leave without people asking us when we will be coming back again. Our next outreach is being scheduled for September. We will be bringing backpacks, school supplies and coats. Jesus said in Matthew 9:37, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few.” Many volunteers and donations are needed to make this next outreach a success. Lakewood needs YOU!

-Judi Valencia, Lakewood Outreach