Hot Day in Convoy of Hope!

Convoy of Hope, which is based out of Springfield, Missouri, conducted their disaster relief outreach campaign here today in our parking lot. They had good support staff from several area churches and ministered to the multitudes of those suffering without a home, without a bed, without a bathroom, without a frig and without their possessions. But HOPE was given to every one that was touched by the compassion and love of these brave and courageous volunteers. There must have been close to 50 to 70 volunteers throughout the day that banded together with Paul to inspire HOPE in those that are hurting and tired. They didn't wait for the cars and trucks to come through the line...they went out to their homes all over the city...providing helpful assistance, leaving valuable supplies and praying with so many, many individuals. Yes, we made a gigantic difference in the lives of literally hundreds of people today! Thanks Lord for those who were willing to sacrifice their day out in the sweltering heat to extend their hands to the hurting! This is true Christianity in action!!

Continued progress was made on our building with some 10 to 15 hard working laborers, who sweated it out in 95+ degree temperatures in our oven of a building. More and more is getting done to expose the moisture behind drywall and underneath soggy carpets. This is such a long and painstaking experience to just get the facility rid of the water, moisture and humidity that was bottled up in our church. However, just from one day ago, when the large tunnels of moving air was installed, it has turned things around 100% from what it was. The basement hasn't even been touched yet! I can't imagine what it looks like from having it completely submerged in murky waters for some 24 to 48 hours. I've heard some reports by those who have had to inspect it and it isn't a pretty picture. Downstairs will require a total renovation and reconstruction of the rooms, walls, doors, windows, suspended ceilings, furnaces and ductwork, phone system, electrical system, wiring, tables, chairs, sound system, not to mention possibly redoing the epoxy floor surface that we recently had finished. Lord, these projects overwhelm me and weigh me down...please provide the funds to finish your building for the glory of God!

A successful rescue effort was made today by some of our valiant men who discovered the Royal Ranger Pinewood Derby track in that dark hole. You gotta love those Darnall boys...always up for the challenge. It was made out of aluminum, so all they had to do was wash it off and store it till further track action. Great job guys!!

Again, it never ceases to amaze me that God sends his messengers to strengthen my hands in this crisis leadership position. Several pastors came to give me encouragement, others came to give me a hug, others wanted to donate, and still others came to work. Lord, you are more precious to me each passing day! You lift me up when I'm down and lead me out when I'm lost!

I had the privilege of carrying out an important assignment from the General Council. In our previous calls, they mentioned that they were sending me a check to be given to one of our senior retired A/G ministers in our congregation. This precious God-fearing couple lost everything when the raging waters ripped through their area. They are staying with the Wampler's, so I swung over there to personally hand deliver this gift of blessing and encouragement. This gentle brother was struck with emotion when he realized the magnitude of this blessing. He was not forgotten. He was being lifted up in prayer by those in Springfield. He was deeply loved and supported. Thanks Lord for this wonderful fellowship of the Assemblies of God where compassion flows by those who lead us in your name!

After the Convoy of Hope outreach had closed up for the day, another desperate mother and son dropped by our battered church for needed supplies. I wrestled with telling her that she could come back tomorrow, but the Spirit was telling me to give her the things that would help her. So we rounded up plenty of empty boxes, some water, cleaning supplies and even some cookies to send her on with HOPE in the name of Jesus. I prayed with them and told them we would have more assistance in the morning. Thanks Lord for not allowing me to miss this personal mission of touching a mother and son in your name!

I was also able to track a father and son down who attends our church and lost their home just a block from our church. God gave me the sights to see him driving in town and I caught up with him to hug him and tell him that we love him and are praying for him. The biggest smile came over his face when he knew it was his pastor that had discovered him. In fact, he can't wait till Sunday to worship with his church family in the sanctuary of Memorial Baptist about three or four long blocks from our current church facility. Thanks Lord for letting me show him love and compassion in your name. I had been burdened for having knowledge of how he was doing. God, you're awesome!

I want you to go to the blog of a precious couple that the Lord sent back to their home town of Columbus, Indiana to serve with the Convoy of Hope today. In fact, they even have some current pictures of today's events and one picture inside our church building. Go to:
www.msmission.blogspot.com for their take on today's ministry experiences.

I've got to get some rest tonight. My body is slowing down from this constant adrenaline rush from each day's massive disaster relief and rebuilding efforts.

Please know that your prayers are making it possible for us to continue this rebuilding fight for Columbus First Assembly, and the multitudes of displaced families in our community.

Would love to hear from you in a "comment" you can post below! Simply click on the "comment" line and post your encouraging comments. Already many have done so and I am so privileged to have their words of blessing and prayers of strength.

Love to all in the name of Jesus Christ!