I know it is the 4th of July holiday, but I just had to write something really cool. First, a quote:
Preach the gospel always; if necessary use words.
You have heard that I’m sure. Let me tell you how I saw it in spades Wednesday. We are having a church-wide picnic at our new shelter Thursday at 4:00. The shelter has just been built so there has been no preparation into the announcement made two Sundays ago: “We are having a church picnic at our new shelter on July 4th. Bring games. Bring something to grill. Bring a dish to share. Bring board games, cards, “Settlers”, whatever. Oh, if you have a grill we can use, let me know.” Well, one of our newer families emailed me (he travels a lot) and said they have a grill we can use and their son (Sam) would be willing to cut the grass on Wednesday. Very cool!
Well, it has rained gobs here lately. Like buckets. While I was at breakfast with one of our men, a lady, whom I will call Judy (because that is her name) came Wednesday morning to mow (not knowing I had already made arrangements with Sam), but with all the rain it turned into a “I better quit before I leave humongous ruts in the yard” type of thing. Meanwhile, Sam comes to cut grass (I tried to reach his dad to head him off at the pass). Anyway, Judy and Sam were walking around when I arrived. They decided to leave the bulk of the yard alone rather than leave ruts, but there was some to be cut.
And here is where it gets really interesting.
Judy tells Sam he can ride the mower (since all boys would rather do that) and she takes the trimmers and does the trimming! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE when an adult affirms a young person with responsibility and takes (in this case) the harder and more menial task. She would poo poo it, I know. But it spoke volumes to me. There is a reason Judy is well-liked by her students. I saw it in the flesh.
Well, I’ve taken up enough of your time this holiday. Have a safe one. Take time to celebrate the freedom we enjoy. And don’t forget the military and veterans who made/make it possible.
Great anecdote here. Love the spirit shown. Also, happy 4th to you as well.
Thanks Daniel. Have a great day also.
Awesome stuff there, Bill. Love that a young person was able to contribute and make the picnic a success.
Yeah Sam is really quiet so this is one way he can serve. Have a great 4th Larry!
I so respect the ones that put others before themselves, if it can be measured in the smallest of things, it speaks to the heart of a person and how they will deal with the big things of life. Hats off to Judy who won’t expect anyone to make a big deal of what is now her nature; our Father’s…
Happy 4th, Bill. God bless and praying for you for Sunday and everyday.
Judy has a good heart Floyd. She has done a phenomenal job of raising 3 children who love Jesus, in spite of an absent husband and a divorce as a result. she is married to a great guy now. I believe God saw her faithfulness. Thanks for your prayers Floyd.
Beautiful story and witness, Pastor Bill! So glad that happened and you got to see it first hand .. and share it! God bless you!