Our family spent many weeks considering ways to be good stewards of our $25 blessing. We felt strongly that we wanted to directly impact someone with this gift. We considered several options but never felt led in any specific direction. The envelope sat on the kitchen counter for weeks while we prayerfully waited for divine inspiration! None came until we were on vacation in Philadelphia on Father's Day. After a full day of sightseeing we passed a homeless couple on the street as we were walking back to our hotel. Something about this couple struck us as they huddled on the street with their arms around each other. We quickly decided to give our $25 blessing to them and let them know that God loved them. We pray that this offering is a true blessing to them and that their lives may be changed by the love of God.

The Derrick Cox Family

Coloring in Costa Rica

I attended the May 31, Worship Service for the dedication of the mission team going to Costa Rica July 4 – 11. When the invitation was given to take an envelope to help others, my heart was moved. However, not being a member, just a visitor, was foremost in my mind. After talking to the mission team leaders, I was assured it would be ok to participate, and I’m glad I did. After lots of prayer I felt God calling me to purchase crayons for the team to take with them on their trip. I was at Wal-Mart last night (June 30) when the first blessing came. I found myself in the wrong place in the store (near the pet supplies), looking at an incomplete back-to-school section with crayons for only 20 cents a box! The second and third blessing came when two different folks asked about the pile of crayon boxes in my cart – I got to share with them about the up-coming missions trip and that my husband and daughter were going. The fourth and NEATEST blessing came from a man in front of me at the check-out counter. He too asked about the 125 boxes of crayons I was putting up on the belt for check out. After my simple explanation he finished paying for his purchases, then turned back to me and handed me two twenty dollar bills and said, “Here, this is for your ministry.” Huge tears came to my eyes as I thanked this generous man. God had GREATLY multiplied this $25 gift. Now I’m praying for direction for use of the $40.

Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return. Luke 6:38

Debbie Darlington

We gave our $25.00 plus to a young widow with two children. They are in great financial need and are so thankful. We get together with them often - amazingly, one would not know of their major problems by their beautiful attitude and loving hearts.
janie and jack varley