Volunteers put a new roof on our home

During the past week, eight volunteers from Dave’s sending church in Lansing, Michigan, have been living and working with us. Their goal was to remove the aging roof on our home and put on a brand new roof. Praise the Lord that the job is finished and that everyone stayed safe.

Adding eight people to our household went much more smoothly than I ever anticipated. They were a good group to host, to feed, to house. Some taught me about service, and some encouraged my heart with their enthusiasm. Let me introduce you to them. 

Don has lots of experience roofing. As he poured his labor into the roof, he was also patiently teaching each of the crew what they needed to know to do the job.  The guys teased him about how many miles he clocked on the roof, going from corner to corner to answer questions. 

Don’s wife, Linda, helped me with cooking and cleaning up.  She saw what needed to be done and did it – what a jewel!  She was so laid back.  I am very thankful for her companionship and help.  

Pastor Gene served in so many ways – up on the roof, cleaning up in the yard, repairing the tire on the truck after a roofing nail punctured it. He led the group in devotions and prayer and singing each day. And he even had opportunity to share about spiritual things with one of our neighbors.

Bill arranged a trucking route to Florida so that he could stop off and give a day’s work to the project. Although he was only able to be with us a day, his eagerness to do his part left a lasting impression. 

Jeremy is part of the FBC family, but also part of the NTM family.  He recently finished the New Tribes Mission training program.  Jeremy plans to go to Papua New Guinea as soon as God raises partners and financial support.  His energy will be a boost to all he comes in contact with.

MIke always had a song to sing or a joke to tell or an idea to offer. He was so kind to Joy, pausing to speak with her frequently. Joy really enjoyed it when Mike talked with her.

The other three guys are teenagers. Jerod, Aaron, and Tom were hard workers. They were quiet around me, but I loved the smiles in their eyes.

Our neighbors were a bit puzzled at our roofing crew. But when they found out that the crew was made up of volunteers and most were inexperienced at roofing, our neighbors were really impressed at what they were able to accomplish. So was I.

Being with young people who are enthused about the Lord was very heartening. Their willingness to work, not for pay but for love for the Lord, makes me realize that God is at work in a younger generation, preparing mighty men for His service. I feel privileged to have met them and anticipate God doing great things through them.

Servants, visionaries, and youth – what a combination!  Thanks to each of them and to Faith Bible Church for sending them to us.