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"A MOST UNUSAL MESSAGE"
June 8, 2009
Lorraine Gearhart
When Rev. Henry asked for persons to come to the altar to do God's work--do something for somebody, "step out of your comfort zone" I was compelled to rise and come forward. I had no idea what to expect. A "Kingdom Assignment" book was given to all who had responded, plus a $100.00 bill!! (Real Money!!) What a message! Questions came into my mind--what will I do? How can I make it grow? Will I be successful at what I attempt? Reading the "Kingdom Assignment" book opened my eyes to ideas. Maybe I could do something for somebody. Prayers directed me. Visiting with my "Chimes" friends, Kay Bryant and I decided to work together on a project. But what ??
We toyed with different ideas. Then I called Rev. Henry to see if he had any suggestions. He told me of a family of 6 needing a refrigerator. Parents with four children not having a refrigerator! How could they manage? Summer coming and no way to keep food from spoiling!! I discussed this with Kay Bryant and she thought it sounded like a good project. This caught her at a busy time as she was going to be moving so she gave me the go ahead to proceed.
I set out immediately to check out prices and availability of refrigerators.
I settled on the best deal--and with delivery the next day, April 27th.
Cost of Refrigerator-------$469.00
Store took off---------------$ 20.00
$449.00
Tax 31.43
$480.43
Cash Paid 100.00
Bal Due $380.43
I prayed that I would be able to raise enough to pay this off!! That enough people would step out of their comfort zone and help. After contacting my "Circle Friends", "Chimes Friends" and others that had a feeling they wanted to join me in this project. They came through in flying colors!!
With Kay Bryant's Kingdom gift of $100.00 being a big help. When I contacted Virginia Robinson, she decided she wanted to contribute her Kingdom gift also. With the generosity of several others I was able to pay it off on May 3rd.
Needless to say, the family was overwhelmed and so Thankful. Realizing the refrigerator had been delivered, there was no food to put in it. I made a trip to the grocery store. Trying to purchase items they would need. Eggs, milk, cheese, hamburger, ice cream, sandwich meat, bread, jello, carrots, apples, bananas, macaroni, and graham crackers. When I delivered it the whole family came out to the car to help carry it in. The oldest boy was delighted with the banans. He said "fruit is good for you" and I think he was on the 3rd banana before I left!!
Then a week later I dropped off 2 more bags of groceries. They were so pleased and thankful. I asked if they had and other needs that I could help them with. The mother indicated they didn't have a kitchen table or any dressers. She thought they would find a table, but were in need of dressers.
(I was on a roll and felt sure I could certainly find some dressers and that enough people would surely want to contribute.) My prayers were answered. On May 4th I found 4 dressers and a single bed, for a total of $119.90. The family picked up the dressers on May 9th. They really liked them and were thankful. The mother gave me a big hug and "Thanks".
On May 10th I stopped by with an assortment of dresser scarves, pillows, pillow cases and a box of garage sale toys. The children were delighted.
On May 19th I located a baby crib at a garage sale for $10.00, however, when the owner knew it was for them, she said they could have it for free. So I called them and they picked it up right away.
On June 7th I learned they had their baby on May 29th. Iphoned and learned it was a boy, weighing about 8lbs. 1oz. I made a trip Wal-Mart and purchased a varity of baby things: diapers, sleepers, blankets, etc. and a gift card. I delivered the items that day. They were so proud to show off their sweet, precious baby and so appreciative of the gifts!
My experience was very pleasing and rewarding to know how much the items were appreciated and needed. I still communicate with them and may assist in the future, if needed. I'm still wanting to carry on God's work in helping others in need.
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