November 1, 2005

  • Christmas In October

     

    October 23, 2005

     

    "Christmas in October!"

     

    The elderly outreach on the farm went so well that Linda decided to do the same thing for the families on the farm. They were informed that the "Farm Giveaway," as she called it, would take place at 16 hours (4pm) on Friday in the church building. Linda, Joanne and I spent the day preparing piles of goodies for every family from the collection of donated items that had been received on the container that was sent by Damascus Wesleyan Church months earlier. Now of course we didn’t know sizes or even who would receive what pile…..we just made the piles trusting God to take care of the rest. You do know where I’m going with this don’t you? Read on.

     

    Every family on the farm was represented and left the church building with a blanket, a couple pairs of shoes and a pile of clothes. Everyone received a stuffed animal and some sweets. Some people were especially blessed to receive a man’s suit, a nice dress or a pair of boots when their number was drawn out of a hat. I wish you all could have seen the happiness and excitement. It was like Christmas in October!!! It was amazing to see people in church today wearing clothes and shoes they had received in the giveaway….things that fit perfectly! Even the man that received a suit was wearing it. He is in the Bible College and will be a Pastor someday, and now he has his first suit! He was so proud as he walked around in that suit carrying his stuffed animal in his arms. He borrowed a tie from his teacher and asked me to take a "snap" (picture) of him to show his mother.J

     

    Everyone left with a smile on their face and joy in their heart…and it was all possible because people gave. Please don’t stop your giving. It truly is more blessed to give than to receive. God promises that "A generous man will prosper. He that refreshes others will himself be refreshed." Please know that your generosity on all occasions is making a difference in this place. On behalf of the people of Zambia, our thanks and prayers go out to each and every one of you. May God bless you.