It’s rare to come across people nowadays who are purely driven by spiritual faith. A man devoted to his community as a spiritual counselor who reads words from a book and applies them on a daily basis.
In the past year, I have had the opportunity to observe Mr. Baxter at the help center where he volunteers as a case worker to God. Spiritually leading his community family on a weekly adventure through a very old book. We get to experience stories of people who give living knowledge of a better life. Prior to the reading we are always asked about our week, or at least one good thing that we have experienced during the week. We have grown through our shared experiences as a family.
In today’s time being homeless is not a choice we take lightly. Imagine not knowing where to sleep or eat, and if we can survive to see the morning sun as it touches our face to remind us we are alive. Now imagine not having family or even friends to share our daily stories with. The stories read to us connect us to people who give survival advice. Thousands of years old stories are as relevant today as the day they were written.
Pastor Riley also dedicates his time at his house on Monetta Avenue, The Church of the Living God. On Sunday morning, at 9 a.m. he begins his day with a smile and calming voice, which he uses to greet his congregation. There are ministers in service all over the world, and then there is Minister Riley Baxter who rises from his needs only to listen to the people/community/congregation as they ask relevant questions concerning their lives. His advice is/will always come from scripture. In these words he knows for sure he will give sound advice to any who will listen. The door to his house is always open. If you wish to stop by to meet him as I did, you will come away at the end of your day feeling better and happier than you have in a long time. His family/congregation is non judgemental. They too will greet you with a hug and you will hear laughter as people share their lives with each other. This story is not as much about the Bible, but rather who you/we are and how we treat each other. Love and respect anyone who you are around and listen to what is being asked. Please don’t judge harshly at what is being said. We all don’t have the same advantages or lifestyle. But we all are humans and share a hope for a better tomorrow. Thank you Minister Riley Baxter for being in our lives. You have surely made a difference.