He has showed you, O man, what is good.
And what does the LORD require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8, NIV)
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Acts of Mercy
On March 28, 2010, Gateway Church gave resources to its members which were to be used to show acts of mercy in our community.
Please share your story about how God prompted you to use those resources as an Act of Mercy.
A couple years ago, one of my athletes was realling struggling with life, after discussing this with my family, we moved this young man into our house until he finished his senior year of high school.
Thanks for the additional opportunity to show God's mercy. A young Gateway couple has been without employment and is actively seeking same. This opened an opportunity to not walk by but to show mercy where it was greatly appreciated and needed. Thanks God and Gateway for teaching us to show Mercy! Jim Bauch
One of my coworkers has gone through a really terrible divorce this year and has struggled greatly. At every turn when something could go wrong, it has. She had a choice back in December to buy groceries or pay her car insurance. She chose to feed her kids, and the next week, her daughter caused a car accident. She has many other stories like this one, so when Joey told us about the opportunity, God immediately placed her on my heart. I gave anonymously because I didn't want her to feel indebted, but I know that God will use it and her in a mighty way.
I have a co-worker who has married a man who has some troubled adult children. They are constantly making bad choices and getting in trouble with the law. Her husband is not even there most of the time because he works over the road. She is a light in their world and is always helping them where needed. She has taken every single one of them back into her home (all currenlty at the same time), along with their kids. There are 4 grandchildren and 4 additional adults living in the home with her. Not a home made that big either....her own son sleeps in the laundry room. She makes sure the they do not do without, especially the grandchildren. And she does not have the income to support that kind of family. She's also trying to go to college at the same time. I gave her the gift with a card telling her that I admire her and that she deserved to do something for herself.
First of all, thanks to Gateway for a phenomenal (upside down) weekend. TPX camp was a home run. We were able to take 15 young guys and they had a blast. For them to return and experience a service and challenge like Joey delivered can be a life changer! Over the past year, our family had become acquainted with a teenage waitress who attends Hall McCarter. She had become pregnant and elected to keep the baby. She and her boyfriend were working hard to put together a quality life for their daughter. The girl frequently shared stories about her daughter and the joy she brought. Yesterday, after service we bought a gift card and wrote a note of encouragement and appreciation that they chose life in a difficult situation.
Tonight on the way home from a meeting/fellowship my friend and I had already experienced some confirmation about steps we were taking. Then we came upon a stranded motorist in the left turn lane of little blue prkwy at I-70. I had already prayed several times and asked God to make it clear who he wanted me to show mercy. I said to my friend hey this could be our chance. When we passed her car and came to a stop, my friend who was driving started to open his door, but I started to hesitate, but that pushed me to open my door and and take a step. There were two ladies looking at a battery that had one of its posts dangling by the cable. My friend had parked his truck on the on-ramp and came to help me. I had managed to get the post to thread back on the battery. Then she tried to start it up--the car moaned but wouldn't start. She had some jumper cables we put them on and the other woman moved her car back so we could use her car to jump her battery. It finally started. I introduced myself and asked her name. She told me, "Angel" and I told her that God had prompted me to stop I handed her the $100 bill and said here why don't you get yourself a new battery. She put her hands on her face in disbelief/excitement and thanked me repeatedly....... When we drove off I turned to look back and saw her with her hands together in prayer......Thank You God for allowing me to be part of your plan. Thank you for using Gateway to teach me and show me your love and things that are important to You. When I got home, another friend who had heard the story-- already, called and told me to read: Hebrews 13:2
I am blessed with some dear friends and a wonderful family. My closest friend and I have done a lot of talking over the last two months about her life, finances, marriage, and job. She's vented a lot of frustration, anger and sadness to me. I've tried hard to move her toward prayer for each of these things. She loves God. She trusts Him, which is difficult for her...to trust. For the first time, after knowing her for many many years, I see her actually allowing herself to trust what God has planned for her. A lot has happened in her life lately with regard to finances. The next year will be a hard one for her and for her family, but they are willing and ready to do what God asks of them. I have prayed since we received the dollars from Gateway, as to what I should do with it. Should I divide it and spread it around to the homeless downtown where I work? Should I buy giftcards for Mercy Ministries maybe? I was driving home yesterday and my friend popped into my mind...Just out of no where. Boom. There she was...her troubles...and her strength to deal with them and her willingness to seek God to help her. It overwhelmed me. Her strength overwhelmed me. I asked for a clear sign from the beginning as to what to do with the money, and I got one. I am to continue lifting up my friend...I am to help encourage her so she can use her story of struggle to encourage others. What better way to encourage a woman in her path with God than to fill her with thousands of other women's stories, praise, music, and laughter. The Women of Faith conference! I purchased a ticket for my friend with the Gateway dollars so that she may attend that event. She expressed interest in attending this some time ago, but with the financial difficulties it would be impossible to even consider right now. She was in shock and so excited when I offered her this. She immediately said YES! She is trying desparately to move when God tells her to...to listen to Him. It was clear that this type of encouragement would benefit her. It would benefit her so that she can positively encourage and influence others. She has and will continue to have a GREAT story to share...one of mercy, one of faith, one full of God.
I am overwhelmed by our heavenly Father who has the most amazing perfect timing. Sunday morning as we were listening to Joey explain the gift of money, we both had our neighbors in mind. God confimed that our neighbors were to see how great his love is for them,his children. Last August our neighbors 19 year old son died tragically. The funeral expenses were huge, along with the burden of the loss of their son. God blessed the Dad with a second job to help pay for the cost of the funeral. The mother shared with me tonight that they had just gone to pay for the head stone and they were short $100.00 and would have to wait a little bit longer to get it finished. She was speechless, not that the amount was so huge, but that God knew exactly and at the perfect time what they needed. They are christians and she said she needed to see God's love today. We have seen God's MERCY, compassion and amazing love. We both feel so priveleged to have been a part of God's plan.
TPX weekend was such a wonderful opporotunity for me and I'm so glad I took the opporotunity God had given me to go. It opened my eyes so much. It turned my political beliefs upside down. I was shown that I am not to judge who deserves mercy and who does not. So, I gave the majority of the money to my mother. Our family has been struggling with money ever since my father left, but I know my mom has been doing her best. She was so happy. She said "I knew God would take care of us. I was wondering how we were going to buy groceries next week." So, that's what she did. She bought groceries and God did indeed, take care of us. Now, you're probably wondering what I did with the rest of the money. I was debating after the retreat if I should use the remainder of the money to buy myself a Bible. I decided I would let God decide at the Grocery store. If the bill came under $70.00, I would buy it because that's typically how much Bibles are. If it went over, it was a sign not to buy one. The bill came to $69.74. So, I bought a Bible for $20.00, used the extra $5.00 I had from the retreat that my mom had given me just in case to buy a T-Shirt that says "Pick Jesus," and used the remaining $10.00 to give to a soldier needing donations and a notebook for journeling. I am so fortunate to have been blessed at just the right time. God was looking out for me and my mom and I cannot thank him enough.
I wanted God to lead me to where he wanted me to show mercy with the money Joey gave me. I wanted the heavens to part and shine upon a homeless person, or one of the thousands of newly unemployed people we have in our area :). I prayed that I would not regret the choice that I made and I would know for sure that I had done exactly what was intended for me to do with the money. On Tuesday night I received a call from my son's birthmom. I rarely speak to her and since we adopted our son she has never asked us for anything. She told me that our son's birthfather was in jail due to writing a bad check over $500.00 He had kidney stones and needed medical care and with no insurance he had to pay part of the procedure out of pocket. He lost his job while he was out sick and could not pay this debt. To bail him out of jail she needed $200.00. I remembered that my mom had told me she hadn't decided what to do with the money she had been given so I immediately called her. Together our money would allow him to go home. I prayed the entire way to pick up the money from my mom and the whole way to the gas station where I met her. When I arrived to give her the money I couldn't help but notice her large pregnant belly. She is expecting again and is placing this child up for adoption as well. I told her that my church family would be able to refer her to a family who was looking for a child and that everything would be okay. I hope to one day tell my son about God's mercy and how his 2 mothers embraced in a gas station parking lot and rejoiced in the greatness of the Lord.
A good friend has been dealing with her son's diagnosis of lung disease. Multiple hospitalizations and specialists involved, they still struggle to offer a long term solution or cure. The next step is for the family to travel to St. Louis to discuss the possibility of lung transplant. I shared with my friend this awesome thing that happened in my church last Sunday, the young couple donating, the 350 people taking the $100, etc. She was smiling, so impressed with this expression of God's love through this couple. Then I said "so, this $100 is for you." She looked so surprised, immediately said "I can't take this, find someone who's worthy." I told her that she was worthy and that God wanted to show her mercy. She accepted the gift and then told me the story about renting a car to drive to St. Louis because her's wouldn't make the trip. She said this was an answer to prayer. Ya-whoo, go God!
As soon as Joey told us about this money my mind filled with ways I could show mercy. I knew those were my thoughts and started immediately praying for God to make it obvious when I was supposed to show mercy.
I recently pulled up to a Blue Springs restaurant that brings take out to your car. The line was extremely long and people in the cars were shouting at the one server who was going as fast as she could. She was young and several months pregnant and it was warm out. As she passed by my car, I felt someone whisper, "this is who needs that 100 dollars, this is where you need to show mercy". I hadn't even been thinking about the money at that point and was just waiting to get my order and head home. I heard that same whisper again. I have to admit that I tried to ignore it for a minute. You see, my husband and I desperately want to become parents and so far it hasn't happened. Often times when I see a pregnant person I have to fight jealousy and tonight was no exception. However, God had other plans. I began to pray as I waited for my food to make sure I was hearing God correctly. I felt it deep in my heart and then worried that I would cause the woman stress if I tried to talk to her for a second because of the long line. God already had that worked out too! When she brought my order, it was wrong. She took it back in to be fixed and while I waited, every single other car got their food and left. When she came back out it was just the two of us. I signed my receipt and then handed her the 100 dollar bill. I said, "God wants you to have this, He knows your needs and is allowing me to receive the blessing of giving it to you". She immediately started crying and put her hands to her face. She was in complete shock. She said, "I will use it so wisely". through her tears. This was absolutely not the way that I had planned to show mercy. It was without a doubt God's plan and I drove away feeling like my cup was overflowing.
The day we received the money from Gateway, I had to work. I had the money with me and was driving through a park. There was a man walking and he was visibly upset. I pulled over and asked him if everything was alright. He proceeded to tell me about a fight he had with his girlfriend/wife, their small children, and their financial trouble. I knew right away that God had led me to this man to show him mercy. When I took out the money, he was hesitant to take it. I explained that the money wasn't mine, it was God's. The man said he was a believer, but that he had gotten away from God. I told him to use this not only to help the finances, but as a step back to walking with God.
I was excited when told of this opportunity to show mercy by giving someone $100 dollars. I began to think of who would be deserving of this. Immediately my thoughts went to the idea of paying for a cart full of groceries for a stranger at walmart. But, I decided to wait and pray for God to lead me. The answer I got was far from what I was expecting. God was leading me to my step-brother. Now he's a nice guy and all, but not who I envisioned as deserving. Not to sound mean, but he drinks a lot, and I was almost certain he would spend this money at a bar. That is not how I wanted to see the money spent. I can't judge his heart, but his actions would lead me to believe he is not saved. I wanted to give this money to someone who was being faithful. So I decided to go back and listen to Joey's sermon. As I listened I took notes. Not only did it become clear who I was to give this money to, but a letter developed. I attached the money to the following letter:
10 years ago I was someone who struggled to find satisfaction or purpose for my life. I began to search in all the wrong places. There were many activities that I became involved in which created enormous trouble for me, but even worse, I was still empty inside and often found myself in a deeper hole.
Two years ago I was faced with a situation where I had no control. No matter which angle I tried to come at it I was lost. I was scared. After several long days of exhaustion, I decided to turn to Jesus. Now I had heard several testimonies given by others throughout the years of sitting in church, but on this day; I was the one experiencing the peace, joy, and love that was so often talked about.
In the past I had read the Bible, prayed, and gone to church, but this day was different. I was no longer willing to sit around and wait for something to fall out of the sky. There was a word that just kept running through my mind over and over and over. I even whispered it as I sat quietly. The word was obedience. Since that day, I’ve stepped out in faith several times. They were steps in obedience to promptings given by God. I like who I am becoming and I Love God! My point is: This gift isn’t solely for me. It is being offered to us all.
I understand that the last 8-10 years have been difficult for you. I know that you currently have needs as you get your car going and begin the search for a new job. So today I offer you a gift of mercy. Our church gave us each one hundred dollars to give to someone who we felt God was leading us to. Your name would not go away as I prayed for God to lead me. This money is just a taste of what Jesus has in store for you. Gateway is my church home, and I would love to see you there.
Ephesians 2:10 For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I gave the letter to him with the money inside. I simply stated that he had been on my mind and, told him I intended on being a better brother to him. I never told him that there was $100 inside so I don't know how he reacted or how it will change him. Now I ask that anyone who reads this post to pray for my brother.Great Song
When Joey began talking about acts of mercy, immediately a person I knew through work came to mind. He took early retirement from a janitorial job a few years earlier, his wife later divorced him, and he cannot read or write. He is too young to qualify for any social security benefits yet.I knew he struggled financially. He did not even have a bank account. He does not own a car and given his lack of education, has a hard time finding another job. He was heavy on my mind and heart, I looked up his address and drove to his apt. on Good Friday. His door was open as someone was in his tiny, 1 room place working on the refrigerator. He told me it had just gone out. His conditions were difficult to imagine, just a one room apt. with an old torn sofa and a small 13 inch TV. I shared with him that this was God's money from my Church and he was on my mind. He was very thankful. He then preceded to tell me that he goes to church every Sunday, soon he will be baptized and that he was a Christian. As I drove away, I knew that gift would help him out.
The following is a string of facebook messages that took place on April 1st, 2010. I have changed the other party's name for confidentiality.
Subject: Car Repair
April 1 at 12:26pm
Julie,
Hello, it has been a long time. I saw on facebook that your car needs to have the computer fixed on it and you don't have the money to repair it. Last week, my church held a special event where they gave members of the the congregation a hundred bill to "show mercy". I would like to mail you a check for the hundred dollars that was given to me to help you fix your car if you will allow me to. If you would respond with your mailing address, I will drop a check in the mail tomorrow.
Thank you and God Bless,
-Brennan
April 1 at 12:27pm
is this an april fools joke??
-Julie
April 1 at 12:28pm
Absolutely not... I am hundred percent serious.
-Brennan
April 1 at 12:34pm
O Brennan thank you so much you have no idea how much this means to me....it has been a hard month for me because i already forked out 250 on my car and my x husband lost his job and i have not been getting child support....so this is a blessing for me and my kids....
(Julie's Address omitted)
-Julie
April 1 at 12:35pm
I'll Pay you back when i get some extra cash
-Julie
April 1 at 12:44pm
You are most welcome, though as I said in the initial email, the gift is really from my church and from God, I only saw the need.
I will mail the check tomorrow.
I would prefer that you do not pay me back even when you have the extra cash. Instead, if you feel compelled to, help someone else out in need when you have the opportunity.
Take Care,
-Brennan
April 1 at 12:46pm
thank you so much :)
-Julie
April 4 at 11:44am
just wanted to thank you again and let you know the check came in yesterday and my car is running great now...
I shared this with a family and replaced their basketball goal.
Your love for the Lord is evident in everything you do. The parents open their home to others, teach many, counsel several, and in the years I have known you, shown mercy to thousands both domestically and abroad. The children are kind, giving, and yearn to love others as they see their parents do. It is for this reason, I believe, that God has led me to show you mercy at this time. It is a simple thing but I feel the impact it will have goes far beyond the physical enjoyment and will help direct and mold many lives. I see the joy of other children playing with yours and this act of mercy is a central element of that. It is my desire to see that joy continued and nurtured. Thus I love the ability to show your family this small act of mercy because I know how you will use it.
Yesterday, a couple freinds and I decided to hang out before I had to go to church, so we went and got some ice-cream and were just laughing and hanging out just like any other teenagers. Then I asked my friend had she spent her money, one said I already show'd mercy the other said she hadn't. Then of course we got a jolt of energy and wanted to do a random handout. So we asked ourselves whats a basic need? GAS!!! so we head towards Casey's and when we got there everyone there already seemed filled with joy so we pulled up to the back parking lot and one of the workers seemed so upset and flusstered at first we were reluctent to give it to her since she was smoking a cigarrette, but she was just one of those ladies who just needed a break. So Hillary got out of the car walked up to her and said GOD wanted me to give this too you and the hard times will pass than jumped into the car and we drove off!! :) THEN IT WAS MY TURN, after many options to locations where people could go, we decided to check out McDonalds since the workers always seem to be unhappy. So we walked into the store and as I made a comment about how nice the they had redesigned it. The man immidetly COORALIATED, it sure is. At that moment I felt my heart jump, but I was still checking out my surroundings and I watched this tired old man leaning against the wall (same guy who made the comment) bringing his kids to have dinner. He looked so tired, but he kept smiling at his children. I knew it was for him. I went up to him and told him i know god wants me to give this to you, he has a plan for you he refused to take it at first, but I told him it wasn't mine it was God's and he still didn't want it then I said please I know God wanted me to give this to you he said thank you! I believe in God and GAVE ME AND ALL MY FRIENDS HUGS &&KISSES XOXO ;)
Through the game of basketball, I have met a very humble young man. I gladly gave $100 dollars to a very honest coach. This coach spends countless hours with my son and two different teams. He came into my son's life and has been a great Christian inspiration to my family and my son's team. Anyway, the money will give this young man a chance to improve his skills on the court. Not only is he a great leader to the younger kids....I believe that he will earn a scholarship to play ball someday. He will be the first person in his family to go to college. I am proud to know him...and so glad that my son can follow his lead. Thank you Gateway and Jesus for leading us in the right direction...."TOGETHER"!
I knew I'd be out running errands today, seeing alot of people, and prayed about who I could show kindness to. A few hours later I saw a couple walking along 39th street out by Walmart and felt this was them. The man had on a heavy jacket (it was almost 80 out), a cast on his arm, and they were both carrying a full bag. It was hard to find a good spot to stop as there was alot of traffic, so I stalked them nicely :) across several parking lots until they stopped at a bench near Kohls. I parked, went over and said, "Hi, I go to Gateway Church in B.S. and someone donated some money and asked that we pass it on as a blessing to others. I noticed the cast on your arm and wondered if you could use this." I handed him the $100 and he smiled and said, "Oh we sure could use it now, thank you." I said, "it's not from me, it's from God," and gave him a hug and went back to the car. In retrospect, I wish I would have paused for a minute to see if they wanted to talk or had a story.
Thanks for the opportunity. It was a great reminder of how I can show mercy every day with or without money if I slow down and ask God to lead me!
At the end of the service on the 28th, we each took one of the bills with the intent of passing it on to separate people as God led us.
He had other plans.
A family member has been a believer for many years, but like so many others, things got in the way and a relationship with God became less and less of a likelihood. Church attendance had become something that was just out of the question, because he felt like God didn’t really care about him anymore.
He went in to work on Monday and found out that he had been ‘let go’. His world had been teetering on the brink for some time, but this news sent him over the edge and circling the drain. He even commented that he didn’t even have enough gas money to take his son to basketball practice! No job, no money, no hope.
God made it abundantly clear that both monies should go to the family member with the message that this was from his Heavenly Father and that He wanted His child to know that he was not alone.
We shared the story of how the money came into existence and that it was not our money, and that God wanted to show him mercy and for us to pass this money on to him.
The family member protested that he couldn’t take it because “I’m not worthy, I don’t deserve it.” Exactly! We shared how none of us are worthy, but that God loves us anyway and knows our struggles and wants to help when we let Him.
He just sat there for a while bewildered and humbled that God still cared about him!
He left our house encouraged and looking forward to getting back on his feet so he can be the helper, not the helped. The last thing he said as he walked out the door was “I think I can take my son to basketball practice now!”
I feel inclined to post from the opposite side, as the receiver. My husband and I have been struggling for quite some time now, but somehow we've always made it work. Recently though, all the extra jobs have stopped, my job is slower than ever and we just can't make it. For some reason- last week I opened the fridge and just said wow. It was so empty. Cabinets were empty. I sing a song when food is scarce- Making dinner...out of nothing at all.- I sang it when i would put together all the odds and ends to try and put a meal together. Anyway, for some reason, I took picture of my empty fridge.maybe someday, to remind me of where we've been - I don't really know. (I did take the opportunity to clean the shelves) That evening I was with a group of friends from Gateway- and randomly as I was leaving one of the women put a card in my purse. I went home and remembered to open it, as I had no idea what it was about... inside, a gift card to Hyvee.I cried for so many reasons. Thank you so much, you know who you are, and thank you Gateway for teaching us all how to love like our Lord.
We decided to use the gift God gave by blessing the children in our neighborhood at Easter. We used the money to buy over 175 eggs and all sorts of goodies to fill them with. We also grilled hot dogs and made lemonade for children and any parents that came along. There was $7 left so I got three golden eggs and distributed what was left in them for the kids to find. After the egg hunt I told them about how God blessed our church and we were able to put this together because of how awesome God is and they all thought that was really great!
Since given this gift of $100 by some gracious Gateway members, I had been praying about what God had intended for me to do with it. I was running normal errands & stopped by Costco to pick up a prescription. During my wait I overheard an elderly handicapped lady tell the pharmacist she had to put a couple prescriptions back until next month (she had numerous meds). I knew then that this is what God had intended for my $100. I lightly tapped her shoulder and told her God told me to give this to you for your meds. At first she refused but in the end she hugged me & told me God Bless. It is such a great feeling to help someone in need!
I what to thank Gateway and its anonymous donor for this opportunity to share with others. At church the day that this was announced I immediately thought of a employee/student at the Business and Technology Campus of the Metropolitan Community College where I go to school. His name is Vada Boone and he always has an encouraging word for me when I run into him. I know that he, like me, has had a brain injury in the recent past and we have had several conversations but not ever one as meaningful as the one I was able to have with him when I was able the show him God's Mercy by handing him $100! He has had a rough life and is attempting to follow a better road and this was a very timely act because he is currently trying to become more self dependent. He shared with me that he is in a living situation that has him depending on others for transportation and wants to get out of it. I hope that this $100 is God's seed to help Vada in whatever way it can, and please help me pray that Vada can find the means to take care of the issues he is facing!!! If anyone knows of an inexpensive, around $500, car that he could purchase, please let me know. He currently has his job at the school, and he is soon without a way to get to it!
That Sunday at church was amazing, I am always seeing people in need all over,but do not have the funds to help.. I had so much in mind for my $100 dollars I was going to do this and that, but me and my fiance stopped and talked about it, we do Dave Ramsey on Tuesday nights and its so hard to hear peoples struggles and to know we are right there with them in the same struggle,but when people have little kids at home and that struggle is affecting them its even harder to listen because I love little kids with a passion. We talked about it and I prayed about it and asked God if this was right and it was. This past Tuesday at class my fiance finally got to come to class so we got her a card and wrote a little note and after class even though we didn't know her and she didn't know us we just went up and said hey open this when you get home.. We felt so good because the look on her face was very puzzled but knew when she got home she'd be happy atleast we hope lol. It definetly feels so good to help someone and I hope we can continue doing it maybe not that much but in little ways we can.
This gift from Gateway gave me a chance to help two people that have been very supportive and encouraging during my struggles and who now are in need of financial help themselves. I am thankful for the opportunity to pay it forward and help them.
We were able to bless a friend who had some unexpected travel expenses related to her kids and their father. I know that the money allows her to breathe a little easier and not stress over where the gas money will come from!
Since walking out of the gym, I've been trying to figure out who God wanted the money to help. I teach and have many students in my classes and know of a few in the school I thought would benefit from it, and even had a few plans for the different students if God showed me it was them. However, I felt God was telling me to hold on, and he would show me when the time was right. Today, I learned something about a student in the school, whom I've never had in class but has opened up to me just from a few quick encounters. She has been in trouble all year and was actually at risk of being suspended for a long period of time. I have tried to be a supportive and non-judgemental adult for her to talk to or just to encourage her. I saw her briefly this morning before school, but didn't have a chance to say anything. She looked worse emotionally than I had ever seen her. Later in the morning I learned that her older brother, whom she adored, was on life support and having his organs harvested later today. Some choices he made in life ended his life very early and unexpectedly. From what I understood, neither he nor the family had any insurance or money to cover any of the medical or funeral expenses. God "squeezed" my heart and told me that this was the family who needed His mercy. I had just the right card in my classroom and sent it with a note telling about the generous couple, the mercy that God intended for them, scripture that helps me get through good and bad times, and let them know that I would be praying for them. I am anxious to see how God works in their lives!
God always shows us where He wants us to act for Him in mercy if we only ask and seek. I didn't know right away who to give the money to- at first, I didn't want to have the responsibility. But, I heard God's soft whisper and so I took it, knowing that He would show me where to put it. Two years ago, I felt God prompting my heart to talk to an older man who had been in the library reading the newspaper several times. I chatted with him for a bit, and didn't think anything of it. I hadn't seen him since then, and about a week after I had the money to give, I saw him in the library again. I silently knew that God was putting him before me, but told Him that I needed to know that he was in need of this mercy. So, I went over and talked to him again- he remembered my name, and was so precious. He told me he thought he knew some of my friends that helped out at the soup kitchen- and that was what I needed. I didn't have the money with me then, and I didn't want him to know it was from me, so I put the money in an envelope with a verse that God lay on my heart for him- John 10:10- "the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but I have come so that they may have life, and have it to the full". I knew that the Lord would bring him back to me, so that I could show him mercy on God's behalf. Sure enough, a few days later, he was sitting in the spot he was always in lately. I was just telling God that I needed someone to give it to him, when one of my friends who knows the Lord walked up. I asked him if he would do me a random favor. Without asking any questions, he looked at me with understanding and gave it to Larry for me. I was so blessed by God wanting to use me to show mercy. It just goes to show Ephesian 1:11- "In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will". God knew he wanted me to show mercy to Larry when He prompted me to talk to him and plant a seed 2 years ago- WOW!! I am blown away by His faithfulness.
When I first took the money, I had a specific person in mind, but decided to wait and pray about this more, as another individual was suggested to me as someone who could use this blessing. I knew it wasn't for me to judge who needed the money more than the other - so I waited and prayed. It became clear to me when I received a phone call from one of these individuals on my heart and learned that they were recently released from the nursing home (was supposed to be an 8 month rehab program) and back home, off all prescription narcotics and working to rebuild her life. She was recently widowed and has had years and years of health issues and hardships. It was close to Easter - so I sent a card, included the money and told her of the generosity of a young couple and the outreach of this gift by our church and that I hoped this money would be a blessing to her. I also matched it, and sent another card to her daughter, as she has been tasked with caring for all of the affairs of her mother while she went through this rehab program, and I know circumstances in both of their lives is dire. I received a text message of WOW! and a phone call of appreciation. I know that God is watching over them, as they are in another state, and without much family support.
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
I have continuously been in prayer for God to place someone in my path that needs mercy...for him to show me just who to use this $100 to reach out to. Today began as a horrible day...strained neck, late to work only to get there and 15 minutes later receive a call that my family member was in a car accident. I was just on my way to my mom's house, driving down woods chapel and passed an older man sitting on the side of the road. From his clothing, price chopper bags full of his few things and demeanor you could only guess he was homeless. I kept driving, as we often do seeing a homeless man. But as I drove a little further I kept feeling God say "go back". After much hesitation, I finally heeded Gods calling and turned around. I found a place to park at Tucker Chiropractic and walked over to tlak to the man. I had no idea what I was going to say nor what to expect. I asked him if I could sit down with him and he said yes. I asked him his name and introduced myself. We went on for the next half hour to talk about where he was going and what he was doing. He was very vague and only answered specific questions, you could tell he didnt not want to say he was homeless. His name is Stanley. He says he has family in Kansas City and was waiting for the bus. He said he was a janitor but when I asked where he had no answer. When I asked if I could call a family member for him, he said no thank you. When I asked if I could get anything for him he said no. He reached in his pocket and pulled out seven cents. He asked if I could give him one dollar for the bus. I pulled out the $100 and told him I would like to give him the money. At first he would not take it. I insisted and he took it, placing it in his sock and said thank you. I told him it was from God. He said Amen and that God sent his sister (my name) to him. I asked if there was anything else I could do and he said I had already embraced him and that was enough. I asked him if I could do one more thing...pray with him...somethng that is very difficult for me. As I began to pray, he started talking over me praying over both of us. It was so awesome to sit with him and have him pray, thanking God for sending me. I told him I was thankful God sent me him. I called a friend and told them about my experience. They asked the normal questions..what if they spend it on alcohol or worse. I answered that i cannot control that. I realized its not about the money but about the love we stop to show people. And furthermore that maybe the mercy was truly on me. I left smiling and feeling like I had a new friend...a new friend named Stanley. If by chance you pass him on Woods Chapel please stop to say hi and show mercy on Stanley. I am not sure if God sent me to Stanley, or Stanley to me in the midst of a horrible day. But I know God showed mercy on both of us this afteroon.
I immediately had a couple in mind when Joey announced the plan for the money. In a support meeting I lead, there is a couple who have both recently lost their jobs. They had just felt comfortable enough with me to let me know this the week before. Although I was pretty sure I knew what God had in mind for me to do with the money, I prayed over and over for the next 2 weeks. I missed the next meeting so I asked God to be sure that they showed up in a meeting they don't typically attend so I'd know for sure that they were the ones. (I guess I put out the fleece.) They did show up and I spoke with the woman and gave her the money. She cried and laughed and hugged and laughed some more. She thanked me and I let her know it was not from me, but from God. She went out to her car and let her husband know what had just happened. He reentered, found me, cried, smiled, laughed, hugged and thanked me over and over. I told him as well where it came from. I've since found out that he will be employed again as of May 1. PRAISE GOD!!!! for the provisions...the money and the job!
And a big thank you to the couple who donated the money for hearing God's prompting and acting on it!
A few months ago, a family friend passed away under horrible circumstances. She left behind a 16 month old little boy. I thought of her little boy during that church service where the money was handed out. That little boy will never know his mommy and never hear her say I love you. He will never have her cuddle him when he has a nightmare. He will never see her smile when he accomplishes anything in his life. Anytime I think of this friend, my heart cries for her little boy and the life she was about to have. I constantly pray for her and for her family so that they can one day find Gods strength and be happy. There was a scholarship in her name developed and a fund for her little boy. I have sent the money to be put in to one of these two accounts in her memory.
After receiving our money from Gateway, we sat down with our family at lunch and started to brainstorm. Asking our children for their thoughts and ideas. My husband made a statement that with hind sight I know was direct discernment from God. He said “what would happen if we pooled our funds?” I wonder how God could use us? We continued to brainstorm. Then went on with our day. We held on a week, nothing…on week two we were driving downtown, my husband and I were discussing who again...a neighborhood close by had a need and our HOA had sent emails asking for help, although that is a noble cause, I said let's pray about it... at the moment my thoughts were “I don’t think that’s it”. I think God will make it clear to us who we should show Mercy to and how. The very next day I received a call from a friend. Someone God had already put on my heart several months before. We had become good friends, talking several days a week. This particular day she shared some hard times that her family had been going through. Things that broke my heart, things I “should have known” as a friend. I immediately knew this was it. I started praying as we continued our conversation. I emailed my husband and was confused as to how to handle this. Was there a non-invasive way to help? Was I supposed to share this sensitive information? His discerning response was simple, “we have to just lay it out to our life group, be transparent”. So I immediately emailed our life group. God began stirring the hearts of those He wanted to participate. I began receiving emails and phone calls. The response was AMAZING! God’s love and compassion was all over this! Several people still had their $100, and wanted to contribute. We spoke to our children and those who wanted to donate their $100 did. I had a phone call from someone wanting to donate diapers, another asking about gift cards, groceries…etc. Everyone started praying over how they could help. I had also put out a plea for some help on Sunday afternoon to do some yard work and landscaping, that would help this family’s business. Sunday morning I only had 3 people say they were coming. We were going to start working at 1:00pm, by 2:00pm there were 18 people working together. It was like a mini mission trip! Everyone using their own gifts and talents... The transformation of the yard was unbelievable! Saturday night as we were planning, we handed them $1000 to help with finances! Sunday morning another gate-wayer gave me an envelope with $100 to donate to this family! While working in the yard a father donated another $100, we watched as two middle school children humbly gave their $100! We created a curiosity in the neighborhood, one family that were friends with them, came to see what was going on and said “you can’t have a barn raising without feeding these people”…let me give you some funds to go to the store.” The next day another family donated five brand new outfits for each of the children, and had filled a new backpack with supplies for one of the children to be able to attend a new school this week. I found out later that the same man that donated to feed us (who thought Christians were not all they are cracked up to be) returned and donated $200 for the father to go on the Peru Mission Trip! At life group this week we discussed “why” should we be surprised or amazed at what God did? Shouldn’t we have known how He would provide? We then began brainstorming about how we could continue to help each other with projects, projects each of our families have…breaking down the walls of pride and being Acts 2 believers. We talked about how we could spend time together lifting each other up and serving one another! How greatly blessed and honored we ALL are! Ephesians 3:20-21 (King James Version) 20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, 21Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Holy cow this was an awesome opportunity! Whoever donated the money to do this thank you for entrusting us with the money God blessed you with. I have been amped since day one of this assignment! I love helping people in need. I often stop and pick up hitch hikers and feel bad that all I can offer them is someone to listen and to take them to City Union Mission. So I was searching for someone to help and praying daily for God to lead me to do the right thing and bless the right person. I have to admit I was getting a bit impatient. I thought about trying to multiply it (Matthew 25) but never felt 100% on that idea. But today was the day; Right time, right person, right place and God’s timing. Today as I left rendezvous I stopped by QT. I was walking out and saw a mini-van with the back window busted out and thought now is my chance. I jumped in my vehicle, grabbed my bible and got the $100 BILL. I walked over and the gentleman sitting in the seat looking frustrated and was probably a little freaked out about some big scruffy lookin goofball comin up to his window. I said hello and asked what happened to his window. He said he didn’t know, it had just broke out. I then told him I had been praying for an opportunity to use this money to help someone out and it looked like he needed it. So I handed it to him and said I hope this helps. I headed to my truck. He got out of his vehicle and ran over to me and asked for my info. I told him no need for thanks it was a blessing for me to be able to help. I told him what our church was doing and I hoped it helped. He thanked me with a joyful tear in his eye. I gave him a hug and told him I felt God lead me there to help him and told him to have a great day. I hope God really blesses this guy and his family. I really felt great about being a vessel for God to bless someone. Once again thank you for letting us be a part of this.
As someone pursuing a degree in the education field, it is quite natural for me to have a heart for students. When I began praying and asking God to show me how He wanted to use the money I felt He was asking me to use it on a student. At this point I didn’t know who the kid would be or what kind of need he or she would have, so I continued to pray. Being a Teacher Aide for a credit recovery program, I work with a population of students that are considered to be “at-risk.” For most of these students, struggling academically is only a small fraction of the problems they face. Therefore, when I kept hearing over and over that the investment would be made not only on a student, but a student expecting to have a child, I wasn’t completely surprised. However, I was still unclear. I thought, “God, I don’t have any student’s that are pregnant and I thought you were telling me you wanted me to use the money on a student that I know and can continue to invest in.” Still a little unsure about what I was supposed to do, I waited… ….He came walking in (yes, I said he) like he randomly would between passing periods. He was in my class last semester and stores his Biology book in my cabinet. That afternoon when he came by to grab his book I asked him the usual, “How ya doing? Are you keeping your grades up? How are things with your girlfriend and the baby?” YOUR GIRLFRIEND AND THE BABY?! … Duh! I had known since the beginning of the semester that this student was expecting to have a child this summer! I think God laughed at that moment; me being so simple minded had pictured using the money on a mother…someone literally pregnant. Over the next week, the student and I had conversations about what baby items he and his girlfriend already had & what baby items they would need. That weekend, as we shopped for his baby boy, our conversations led to the role of a Father for his son. Unfortunately, my student’s father has been in prison since he was 2 years old. We also had conversations about Gateway and the kind of church it is…since moving to Blue Springs from the city my student says he rarely makes it to church. However, he was aware of the several BSHS faculty members and students that attend. Aside from purchasing the necessary items of diaper cream, diapers, lotion, shampoo, medicine droppers, etc. the student bought a University of Missouri outfit with a matching bib and shoes. I told my student it was a good thing he picked the right school because God told me he didn’t want His money going to that other one. ;) I am so grateful for this specific opportunity given to me so that I could show mercy to this student. It is my prayer that this $100 investment will turn into a priceless investment…an investment that allows this student to know/grow in the love of the Father and Son and to pass on the love of the Father to his son.
Almost a year ago a co-worker of mine and her husband had their first baby,then about 6 months later the husband was laid-off from his job. The day Gateway handed the 100 dollar bills, my mind went to 3-4 different places that the money would be of great use, including my co-worker. I prayed and prayed for 3 weeks,the money burning a hole in my pocket...what do I do with this Lord? Then one day in my car before going into work I said,"please Lord show me". That day my co-worker was talking to her client about her husbands insurance running out, in the same conversation she mentioned them going to the Dave Ramsey coarse. So for many reasons I gave her the money: her husband out a job,no insurance,a new baby,knowing they need financial guidance and doing something about it,not to mention the couple are doing what they can to earn extra money by cleaning our place of business weekly but this co-worker of mine makes a difference in the life of the donor who donated the money to Gateway and help start the Jubilee Fund by pampering her every 6 weeks or so when she comes into the salon. I have always said,"there is no such thing as a coincidence. God is good!
Well, it took a while, but tonight I was directed to give the $100 to that "someone" I had prayed for. As I pulled out of a parking lot across the street from me there was a mother and her five children struggling with Dollar Store bags as they walked home. Tonight the weather is beautiful, but I knew that wasn't why they were walking to and from the store. As I pulled out and past them, watching them it hit me...I pulled over and approaching her asked if this was her family, she was cautious to reply yes, I handed her the $100 and said my mom was a single mom w/5 kids as well and I remember how hard it was. With tears in her eyes she grabbed and embraced me saying "thank you, thank you!" God bless and keep her and her family!
First of all...a PRAISE GOD...to the ones who have made such a HUGE INVESTMENT in eternity by giving the gift...not only has the gift provided financial blessings...but you have impacted more lives than you will ever know this side of eternity because Scripture tells me that "it's more blessed to give than to receive"...you have given so many of us a taste of the blessing that comes when you give to others in acts of mercy...God is smiling HUGE on your lives!
The Sunday before the money was passed out at church, God laid a sweet single mother on my heart. A young mom with small children that God had already given me the opportunity to reach out to. I felt His stirring, asking me to step out of my comfort zone and just reach out to her and be a blessing...I am ashamed to say I did not act on that prompting that day...but...after asking...God gave me a second chance...thank YOU JESUS!
When the money was given, I knew immediately what I was going to do with it...her name was still echoing in my head...and her face was on the forefront of my mind...the decision was simple...
I learned through a mutual friend that she was in need of $130 to pay a childcare bill that she couldnt pay...God used that money combined with my friend's money to meet that need and to make a difference in her life...
The money is the tool that God is using to give us all a doorway into these precious souls lives...my prayer is that our hearts are eternally impacted with the faces and the names of the people God has put before us...I pray we don't stop with the giving...but that again and again we ask God for another chance...another paths-crossing so that these lives will be eternally changed and that they too would come to know the fulfilling walk that comes only by following Christ.
My husband and I were not there the day the money was handed out but after hearing of what people were doing with their mercy money I was lead to take money from our personal account and contribute it the same way. At the time of making this decision I was unsure as to what God wanted me to do with the money. As the weeks went on I received a call from a dear friend stating we had someone in our lifegroup in severe need. Without a doubt this is what God had me holding onto the money for. As I sat and prayed about it, I was unsure as to how to give the money to this family and what they needed from me. I knew there needs were endless at this point, no food in the fridge, minimal clothes for their three children, months behind on the house payment and a child about to go to school and unable to get the supplies. As the other families in our group began handing in their mercy money we had over $1000 cash to give them. So god lead me to using the money I had set aside to go get each child 5 outfits and a bookbag full of supplies for the family so they wouldnt feel guilty getting these things with the cash when there was so many other places for it to go. The day I went to drop it off I was able to spend some time with the family and was able to personally see how greatful they were for all that had been given to them. As they are new christians it was awesome to see them recognizing God's work in their life. To be able to stand and hear them recognize all that had been done for them was the work of God was the most awesome part of this..The joy witnessed when you are able to bless the lives of others with the blessings God has given you, priceless.
Like so many others, I immediately began to pray after receiving the money, as to what God wanted me to do with it. I work in a field where I am constantly surrounded by need and could think of a school full of families that could use a little relief in their life. I continued to pray and never felt the Holy Spirit leading me in one direction or another so I held onto the money, even checking my wallet to make sure it was still there. Last Friday I was coming out of a store, not thinking about the money at all. I went around to the back of my car to get something out of my trunk, which I normally would not have done. While I was digging through my trunk, I heard someone say "Excuse me". A woman and her friend had stopped behind my car in the middle of the road and asked me if I had a few dollars to spare. They were trying to get to Research Hospital for an appointment and had no more money left for gas. I could tell this woman had had a rough go of it and as she was trying to explain why she needed the money, I told her that I did have some she could have. She pulled into the space next to my car and I put the $100 into her hand, while explaining where the money came from and that I hoped it helped her for whatever needs she had. She looked at the money and when she realized how much it was, immediately started crying and hugged me for a good solid 3 minutes. She kept saying she would pay it forward and I just told her that this was a gift with no strings attachted and that I hoped it helped whatever need she had. We began talking more and she told me that she was looking for a new place to live because she was a recovering addict and the people below her were into drugs. I was able to have a conversation with her about Mercy Ministry and gave her a bulletin with all the church information on there and encouraged her to call anytime. God's timing was so perfect and so unexpected!!! He is Good!!!!
What an amazing opportunity set before us, I praise God for the ones who donated the gift for mercy. I want to be in that position, your act has inspired me to think bigger and think outside the box. I like many others spent alot of time praying and seeking God's will for the $100. Funny, I've never had this much trouble spending a hundred dollars before. I must admit, at first I kept it in my bible, so to pray & have scripture handy when I needed it. My husband pointed out at Life Group one night that some day I'll be cleaning out my bible and find a crisp $100 bill. Then the more I prayed the more evident it became that I wasn't even prepared. So, I took the $100 and got it split into 2 $50's. Kept it with me in my purse along with a card I laminated with 2 scriptures, Ephesians 2:8-10 on one side and Ephesians 2:4 on the other. I had been praying that God speak very loud to me when the time and person was right. The first came on Sat afternoon. I was spending some time with a soon-to-be single mom who has been devasted with the valley of life in which she is walking but declares God will see her thru this. I listened to her every word as God was practically screaming at me "GIVE HER THE MONEY" BUT ONLY 1/2. This was hard because I knew she reallly could use all of it, but God said 1/2... She was soooo greatful, she called me today to tell me all the groceries she got with it. God's timing was perfect and it was just what the amount she needed to get her thru. Then yesterday at church, I had a few minutes with someone who has answered the call to serve in Jamaica. I've heard and answered that call myself before and God has laid her on my heart heavily lately. I knew he was wanting me to give to her, but in the moment of our conversations, again God was SOOO LOUD in my ears, GIVE HER THE MONEY.... I know how difficult it was to get the money for my mission trip & when I trusted & gave it to God, he provided... I believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is in that "give it to God and trust He will provide" place and this was His way showing her that He has her covered... Thank you Gateway for being a body of believers that listens and acts when God speaks...
I pass homeless people everyday when I go to and from work, I have always wanted to be able to purchase food or water for them; however, our budget hasn't allowed for me to do that regularly. I was so excited when we were given funds to show mercy. I was able to put together bags for the homeless filled with water, trail mix, sunscreen, etc.
The men always look so surprised when I roll down my window to give them their entire bag filled with supplies. The majority of the time the men say "bless you," which makes me wonder why the phrase "bless you" isn't in my normal vernacular...
It has taken me awhile to share my story but I finally have a little time. I knew right away who I was going to help with the money I received. I have known a single mother for several years through my son playing sports with her son. She was going to school and had to quit and worked a temp job around Christmas but hadn't had any luck finding a job since then. I knew from time to time she would borrow money from mutual friends but would always eventually pay them back. The day before I gave her the basket she had borrowed 20 dollars from a friend so I knew she was in need. When I called another one of our mutual friends and told her what I was doing she thought it was so great she donated 50 dollars also. I also got a donation from Hyvee for a 25 dollar gift card and added some of my own money so we ended up giving her 200 dollars. We divided it up and put in Easter eggs and made a basket with candy and eggs. I gave it to her the Thursday before Easter. I called and told her I had something for her so she came by my house having no idea what it was. (she was curious) When I gave her the basket I told her the story of the gift and how the church gave out money to show someone mercy and help someone in the community. She cried and I cried and it was a great feeling! I am new to Gateway and have to say I have never had another church feel so right. My daughter also got 100 dollars and is still seeking the right need to fill.
Our story started about a week before the money was handed out. Our life group was at Micah Ministries feeding people and my husband and I recognized one of the families there. The woman, now 33, was in the youth group when we were youth workers at our old church. She was now eating with her husband and 6 year old son. My husband was thinking about the little boy and looked on Craig's List for a video game system. He found a system that we had several games for so he called me to go to south Blue Springs to pick it up. The couple I bought it from was a young couple with a little girl who was about 2 years old. They didn't have a lot in their house and I bought the system and told my husband this couple reminded me of us when we were just starting out. All night I kept thinking about the couple. The next day, Sunday, Joey tells us he is giving $100 to anyone who wants to show mercy on someone else. Immediately I thought of this young couple. At the same time, my husband was thinking of the couple from Micah. The Micah family needed a new windshield wiper motor for their truck, which they were able to purchase with the money. When we went to take the young couple the money, I was surprised to find that they had a new baby the Monday before. I was in such a rush the prior visit, I didn't even notice the woman was pregnant. But it felt even better to bless this family with $100. God is good!!
I took the hundred dollars and new fairly soon with clarity what God was showing me. I sent the money to a single mom and daughter who I know had had a hard year. I had encountered them some through some circumstance and knew that maybe they just needed something special to help them out and lift them up at the same time. I sent the money anonymously as to avoid any embarrassment on their part. However, I did send a card with the gift card ( I changed the money into a gift card at a local store) and a note saying that they were often in my thoughts and that my church community and I just wanted them to have a blessing and something just for them. It has been such a blessing to me to just think about them opening that envelope and knowing that there is a group of believers out that the was willing to just lend a hand! Thanks Gateway Family and this awesome opportunity.
For several years we had been struggling with a major financial burden. It seemed that every effort we made always failed. Then, on God’s time table not ours, out of the blue we received a phone call from complete strangers and our struggle and decision was over.
That was four years ago and since then the once strangers and now friends are facing hardships. She has health issues and is unable to work. He is self-employed and has experienced some health issues too and less and less work over the past few months.
Finally, about a month ago we learned the he had lost his job completely. He is unable to draw unemployment because of being self-employed. Although they have continued to face challenges you would never know it. They are always positive and when most would simply give up they refuse to and continue to hold to their principles and meet each day’s challenges.
We knew that if we just gave them the money they would most likely use it to help others. We felt lead to buy a $100 grocery gift card. Totally unknown to us we bought the card at the grocery store where they regularly shop. When we presented the card and explained the love, caring, and mercy we try to show others at Gateway it was clear to them that God’s presence was with them as He continues to feed those in need. We are humbled and grateful to be a part of this amazing journey with Christ.
Since I received the $100 on March 28 I have been asking most days for God to show me clearly what to do with the money. When I saw all the football players at church yesterday and as I heard Matt Marble talking about their upcoming Peru mission trip, God made it real clear to me, like a whisper in my ear,that I should give the $100 to them for their mission trip. God gave me a strong discernment that this trip will eternally change the lives of those young men.
God spoke to me in a way to help out the teachers of my childrens school. THe school will have a teacher appreciation week in a couple weeks and they were looking for donations for gifts for their teachers. I decided to give 10$ gift cards to Chipotle, StarBucks and Bath and Body works to the teachers. I feel that our teachers that care for our children everyday for 8 hours go under appreciated. The teachers of my 2 boys are exceptional and would not trade them for the world.
When Gateway gave us the opportunity to show mercy I was thrilled! I said a prayer before I went up. I went up to Joey and like usual he gave me a little teasing, and handed me the money. I had NO idea what I was going to do with it. Later that week I was playing around on my phone and out of no where I knew what I wanted to do. I told my mom, then we called Megan Farber. I asked if there was any one she knew of that needed clothes. A couple weeks went by and I talked to her at church. There was a person she knew and gave me the sizes. So my mom and I went to this cool store and got her cool clothes. The woman working was very kind and helpful. She helped us strech our money and get fun stuff for the person.
God helped me show mercy and I feel great about my decision. God had the woman working there, and had us go there at the right time! God's timing is just right!
My best friend decided that we were going to go get something to eat together one morning. on our way there we saw a car wash that was raising money for a mission trip to Peru. we thought that it would be good to get my REALLLY dirty car washed and it was for a good cause so we did it.as we were waiting for about thirty minutes, not a single person came to the car wash.we both have experience how life changing mission trips were so this really stirred us. i then remembered that my $100 was sitting in my trunk. i had already had a plan to give the money to someone else. but we both felt that God was calling me to change my old plan and give it to these people. so we wrote them a note on a napkin and wrapped the money inside. i hope that it ended up helping!
Like many others, I tried to pre-determine where I spend the money so graciously denoted by a Gateway family. I continued to pray and ask God to show me how he wanted the money to further his mission. When I heard Matt Marble talk about the Peru mission trip for the Wildcat upcoming Sr. class, I knew that was it! Not a second thought was given.
A friend has been struggling with many things in recent years. Her husband made a mistake years ago. After accepting God into his heart, he admitted his mistake and accepted the consequences of his choice which included a prison sentence among many other lingering affects. He was recently working at a job that was helping to support his wife and four children but upon hearing of his prior conviction he was let go. The family has continued to persevere through this time in their lives knowing that God will take care of them. His wife was presented with an opportunity to go to a women's conference in Branson and the only thing that she would have to pay for would be her food and incidentals while attending the conference. She was excited about the opporunity but knew she didn't have the money to afford even that portion of the trip. It was amazing to be able to show her God's mercy and tell her that she wouldn't have to worry about the money and could just go and enjoy the weekend. This experience has been incredible. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.
The night before Joey had given out the 100 dollar bills, I was at Windermere with TPX and had asked Debbi Lalli why we were going to church the next morning because we were having to wake up extra early. She was telling me and a few other girls about this oppurtunity. Immediately, I thought of my sister. My sister, Brittanie, is going on a mission trip this July to Baja, Mexico. I thought of giving it to Brittanie because I've seen so much change in her life. She is always excited to tell others about the LORD and wants to serve others all the time. The other day she was sitting in my room trying to figure out how she was going to raise money for the trip, so I asked her how much it was going to cost. She said it was $700 plus airfare. I thought for a moment and knew what God wanted me to do. I walked over to my desk and took the $100 out of my jar and handed it to her. I know that this experience will be life changing for her and I'm so happy she is living her life for the LORD!!!
I turned and walked away with one hundred dollars in my breast pocket tucked so deeply away I knew I would forget it. Not reaching out to anyone and knowing Joey often calls us out of our comfortable box I headed for the door with my head down so as not to see anyone seeing me. I took the path of the least resistance; knowing all too well I'm not a salmon, I came face to face with Peggy and Mike Roderick. Seeing Peggy stand before me I reached deep into the pocket I had forgoten about and pulled the money out and placed in her hands telling her with tears streaming down my face that God had moved me to give this to her. I don't know what you will do with this I don't know if you need this but I do know you have a son in the military and often try to go see him so perhaps it's just for gas or even for him to do something with for his fellow soldiers. Before I turn to leave I give her a hug and say goodbye to Mike and with tears flowing like a spring rain down all our faces I turn to leave and know deep in my heart it was not my hand that reached into my pocket...it was not my feet that walked the path to them but the Spirit of my Father taking a moment to use me for His Greater Good...
I saw a child in a video that was not much more than a year old who had no food to eat. The child didn’t look real, as it was skin and bones. The baby was sitting in a bed looking up at the camera and trying to smile as children do but there were no rosy baby cheeks. The child had only a sunken face. I heard a quote that claims approximately 18,000 people die EVERY DAY due to malnutrition. The next photo in the video was of the same little one a month later after getting nourishment. It was then a bouncing baby, full of baby fat and smiling after getting meals. My wife and I were fortunate enough to be invited to volunteer for the non-profit “Feed My Starving Children” organization with some other Gateway members. This was an assembly line ordeal with many volunteers scooping food such as grain and rice into a baggie which was then sealed and boxed to go to Nicaragua. The boxed food literally went to starving children, with each bag holding 6 meals and having several nutrients in each bag. Each meal cost a mere 17-19 cents. I have been praying for the Lord to let me know what I should with the blessing of my torch and any time I considered passing it along it just was not the right moment. I had the hundred dollar bill in my wallet the whole time. I felt the Lord in a strong, strong way this particular day. My torch went into the donation box. The organization quoted that 94% of the proceeds goes directly to the program, and one hundred dollar bill will be for 600 meals for starving children! I encourage others to visit this particular organization and Google “Feed My Starving Children” and make a doantion, hwever small. Please remember, 17-19 cents to give someone who is literally starving a meal. I will also have another torch in my wallet, as I have vowed to double it and keep one with me when the Lord wants me to help out any other way. Don’t let this experience be just another memory. I pray that nobody forgets this act of kindness that fortunate Gateway members shared with us, and continue to pass kindness on every way possible! Please don’t forget it.
The vision of Gateway Church is to glorify God by enjoying the journey of knowing Jesus Christ and making Him known through the power of the Holy Spirit.
57 comments:
A couple years ago, one of my athletes was realling struggling with life, after discussing this with my family, we moved this young man into our house until he finished his senior year of high school.
Thanks for the additional opportunity to show God's mercy.
A young Gateway couple has been without employment and is actively seeking same. This opened an opportunity to not walk by but to show mercy where it was greatly appreciated and needed. Thanks God and Gateway for teaching us to show Mercy! Jim Bauch
One of my coworkers has gone through a really terrible divorce this year and has struggled greatly. At every turn when something could go wrong, it has. She had a choice back in December to buy groceries or pay her car insurance. She chose to feed her kids, and the next week, her daughter caused a car accident. She has many other stories like this one, so when Joey told us about the opportunity, God immediately placed her on my heart. I gave anonymously because I didn't want her to feel indebted, but I know that God will use it and her in a mighty way.
I have a co-worker who has married a man who has some troubled adult children. They are constantly making bad choices and getting in trouble with the law. Her husband is not even there most of the time because he works over the road. She is a light in their world and is always helping them where needed. She has taken every single one of them back into her home (all currenlty at the same time), along with their kids. There are 4 grandchildren and 4 additional adults living in the home with her. Not a home made that big either....her own son sleeps in the laundry room. She makes sure the they do not do without, especially the grandchildren. And she does not have the income to support that kind of family. She's also trying to go to college at the same time. I gave her the gift with a card telling her that I admire her and that she deserved to do something for herself.
First of all, thanks to Gateway for a phenomenal (upside down) weekend. TPX camp was a home run. We were able to take 15 young guys and they had a blast. For them to return and experience a service and challenge like Joey delivered can be a life changer!
Over the past year, our family had become acquainted with a teenage waitress who attends Hall McCarter. She had become pregnant and elected to keep the baby. She and her boyfriend were working hard to put together a quality life for their daughter. The girl frequently shared stories about her daughter and the joy she brought. Yesterday, after service we bought a gift card and wrote a note of encouragement and appreciation that they chose life in a difficult situation.
Tonight on the way home from a meeting/fellowship my friend and I had already experienced some confirmation about steps we were taking. Then we came upon a stranded motorist in the left turn lane of little blue prkwy at I-70. I had already prayed several times and asked God to make it clear who he wanted me to show mercy. I said to my friend hey this could be our chance. When we passed her car and came to a stop, my friend who was driving started to open his door, but I started to hesitate, but that pushed me to open my door and and take a step. There were two ladies looking at a battery that had one of its posts dangling by the cable. My friend had parked his truck on the on-ramp and came to help me. I had managed to get the post to thread back on the battery. Then she tried to start it up--the car moaned but wouldn't start. She had some jumper cables we put them on and the other woman moved her car back so we could use her car to jump her battery. It finally started. I introduced myself and asked her name. She told me, "Angel" and I told her that God had prompted me to stop I handed her the $100 bill and said here why don't you get yourself a new battery. She put her hands on her face in disbelief/excitement and thanked me repeatedly....... When we drove off I turned to look back and saw her with her hands together in prayer......Thank You God for allowing me to be part of your plan. Thank you for using Gateway to teach me and show me your love and things that are important to You.
When I got home, another friend who had heard the story-- already, called and told me to read: Hebrews 13:2
I am blessed with some dear friends and a wonderful family. My closest friend and I have done a lot of talking over the last two months about her life, finances, marriage, and job. She's vented a lot of frustration, anger and sadness to me. I've tried hard to move her toward prayer for each of these things. She loves God. She trusts Him, which is difficult for her...to trust. For the first time, after knowing her for many many years, I see her actually allowing herself to trust what God has planned for her. A lot has happened in her life lately with regard to finances. The next year will be a hard one for her and for her family, but they are willing and ready to do what God asks of them. I have prayed since we received the dollars from Gateway, as to what I should do with it. Should I divide it and spread it around to the homeless downtown where I work? Should I buy giftcards for Mercy Ministries maybe? I was driving home yesterday and my friend popped into my mind...Just out of no where. Boom. There she was...her troubles...and her strength to deal with them and her willingness to seek God to help her. It overwhelmed me. Her strength overwhelmed me. I asked for a clear sign from the beginning as to what to do with the money, and I got one. I am to continue lifting up my friend...I am to help encourage her so she can use her story of struggle to encourage others. What better way to encourage a woman in her path with God than to fill her with thousands of other women's stories, praise, music, and laughter. The Women of Faith conference! I purchased a ticket for my friend with the Gateway dollars so that she may attend that event. She expressed interest in attending this some time ago, but with the financial difficulties it would be impossible to even consider right now. She was in shock and so excited when I offered her this. She immediately said YES! She is trying desparately to move when God tells her to...to listen to Him. It was clear that this type of encouragement would benefit her. It would benefit her so that she can positively encourage and influence others. She has and will continue to have a GREAT story to share...one of mercy, one of faith, one full of God.
I am overwhelmed by our heavenly Father who has the most amazing perfect timing. Sunday morning as we were listening to Joey explain the gift of money, we both had our neighbors in mind. God confimed that our neighbors were to see how great his love is for them,his children. Last August our neighbors 19 year old son died tragically. The funeral expenses were huge, along with the burden of the loss of their son. God blessed the Dad with a second job to help pay for the cost of the funeral. The mother shared with me tonight that they had just gone to pay for the head stone and they were short $100.00 and would have to wait a little bit longer to get it finished. She was speechless, not that the amount was so huge, but that God knew exactly and at the perfect time what they needed. They are christians and she said she needed to see God's love today. We have seen God's MERCY, compassion and amazing love. We both feel so priveleged to have been a part of God's plan.
TPX weekend was such a wonderful opporotunity for me and I'm so glad I took the opporotunity God had given me to go. It opened my eyes so much. It turned my political beliefs upside down. I was shown that I am not to judge who deserves mercy and who does not. So, I gave the majority of the money to my mother. Our family has been struggling with money ever since my father left, but I know my mom has been doing her best. She was so happy. She said "I knew God would take care of us. I was wondering how we were going to buy groceries next week." So, that's what she did. She bought groceries and God did indeed, take care of us. Now, you're probably wondering what I did with the rest of the money. I was debating after the retreat if I should use the remainder of the money to buy myself a Bible. I decided I would let God decide at the Grocery store. If the bill came under $70.00, I would buy it because that's typically how much Bibles are. If it went over, it was a sign not to buy one. The bill came to $69.74. So, I bought a Bible for $20.00, used the extra $5.00 I had from the retreat that my mom had given me just in case to buy a T-Shirt that says "Pick Jesus," and used the remaining $10.00 to give to a soldier needing donations and a notebook for journeling. I am so fortunate to have been blessed at just the right time. God was looking out for me and my mom and I cannot thank him enough.
I wanted God to lead me to where he wanted me to show mercy with the money Joey gave me. I wanted the heavens to part and shine upon a homeless person, or one of the thousands of newly unemployed people we have in our area :). I prayed that I would not regret the choice that I made and I would know for sure that I had done exactly what was intended for me to do with the money. On Tuesday night I received a call from my son's birthmom. I rarely speak to her and since we adopted our son she has never asked us for anything. She told me that our son's birthfather was in jail due to writing a bad check over $500.00 He had kidney stones and needed medical care and with no insurance he had to pay part of the procedure out of pocket. He lost his job while he was out sick and could not pay this debt. To bail him out of jail she needed $200.00. I remembered that my mom had told me she hadn't decided what to do with the money she had been given so I immediately called her. Together our money would allow him to go home. I prayed the entire way to pick up the money from my mom and the whole way to the gas station where I met her. When I arrived to give her the money I couldn't help but notice her large pregnant belly. She is expecting again and is placing this child up for adoption as well. I told her that my church family would be able to refer her to a family who was looking for a child and that everything would be okay. I hope to one day tell my son about God's mercy and how his 2 mothers embraced in a gas station parking lot and rejoiced in the greatness of the Lord.
A good friend has been dealing with her son's diagnosis of lung disease. Multiple hospitalizations and specialists involved, they still struggle to offer a long term solution or cure. The next step is for the family to travel to St. Louis to discuss the possibility of lung transplant.
I shared with my friend this awesome thing that happened in my church last Sunday, the young couple donating, the 350 people taking the $100, etc. She was smiling, so impressed with this expression of God's love through this couple. Then I said "so, this $100 is for you." She looked so surprised, immediately said "I can't take this, find someone who's worthy." I told her that she was worthy and that God wanted to show her mercy.
She accepted the gift and then told me the story about renting a car to drive to St. Louis because her's wouldn't make the trip. She said this was an answer to prayer.
Ya-whoo, go God!
As soon as Joey told us about this money my mind filled with ways I could show mercy. I knew those were my thoughts and started immediately praying for God to make it obvious when I was supposed to show mercy.
I recently pulled up to a Blue Springs restaurant that brings take out to your car. The line was extremely long and people in the cars were shouting at the one server who was going as fast as she could. She was young and several months pregnant and it was warm out. As she passed by my car, I felt someone whisper, "this is who needs that 100 dollars, this is where you need to show mercy". I hadn't even been thinking about the money at that point and was just waiting to get my order and head home. I heard that same whisper again. I have to admit that I tried to ignore it for a minute. You see, my husband and I desperately want to become parents and so far it hasn't happened. Often times when I see a pregnant person I have to fight jealousy and tonight was no exception. However, God had other plans. I began to pray as I waited for my food to make sure I was hearing God correctly. I felt it deep in my heart and then worried that I would cause the woman stress if I tried to talk to her for a second because of the long line. God already had that worked out too! When she brought my order, it was wrong. She took it back in to be fixed and while I waited, every single other car got their food and left. When she came back out it was just the two of us. I signed my receipt and then handed her the 100 dollar bill. I said, "God wants you to have this, He knows your needs and is allowing me to receive the blessing of giving it to you". She immediately started crying and put her hands to her face. She was in complete shock. She said, "I will use it so wisely". through her tears. This was absolutely not the way that I had planned to show mercy. It was without a doubt God's plan and I drove away feeling like my cup was overflowing.
The day we received the money from Gateway, I had to work. I had the money with me and was driving through a park. There was a man walking and he was visibly upset. I pulled over and asked him if everything was alright. He proceeded to tell me about a fight he had with his girlfriend/wife, their small children, and their financial trouble. I knew right away that God had led me to this man to show him mercy. When I took out the money, he was hesitant to take it. I explained that the money wasn't mine, it was God's. The man said he was a believer, but that he had gotten away from God. I told him to use this not only to help the finances, but as a step back to walking with God.
I was excited when told of this opportunity to show mercy by giving someone $100 dollars. I began to think of who would be deserving of this. Immediately my thoughts went to the idea of paying for a cart full of groceries for a stranger at walmart. But, I decided to wait and pray for God to lead me. The answer I got was far from what I was expecting. God was leading me to my step-brother. Now he's a nice guy and all, but not who I envisioned as deserving. Not to sound mean, but he drinks a lot, and I was almost certain he would spend this money at a bar. That is not how I wanted to see the money spent. I can't judge his heart, but his actions would lead me to believe he is not saved. I wanted to give this money to someone who was being faithful. So I decided to go back and listen to Joey's sermon. As I listened I took notes. Not only did it become clear who I was to give this money to, but a letter developed. I attached the money to the following letter:
10 years ago I was someone who struggled to find satisfaction or purpose for my life. I began to search in all the wrong places. There were many activities that I became involved in which created enormous trouble for me, but even worse, I was still empty inside and often found myself in a deeper hole.
Two years ago I was faced with a situation where I had no control. No matter which angle I tried to come at it I was lost. I was scared. After several long days of exhaustion, I decided to turn to Jesus. Now I had heard several testimonies given by others throughout the years of sitting in church, but on this day; I was the one experiencing the peace, joy, and love that was so often talked about.
In the past I had read the Bible, prayed, and gone to church, but this day was different. I was no longer willing to sit around and wait for something to fall out of the sky. There was a word that just kept running through my mind over and over and over. I even whispered it as I sat quietly. The word was obedience. Since that day, I’ve stepped out in faith several times. They were steps in obedience to promptings given by God. I like who I am becoming and I Love God! My point is: This gift isn’t solely for me. It is being offered to us all.
I understand that the last 8-10 years have been difficult for you. I know that you currently have needs as you get your car going and begin the search for a new job. So today I offer you a gift of mercy. Our church gave us each one hundred dollars to give to someone who we felt God was leading us to. Your name would not go away as I prayed for God to lead me. This money is just a taste of what Jesus has in store for you. Gateway is my church home, and I would love to see you there.
Ephesians 2:10
For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
I gave the letter to him with the money inside. I simply stated that he had been on my mind and, told him I intended on being a better brother to him. I never told him that there was $100 inside so I don't know how he reacted or how it will change him. Now I ask that anyone who reads this post to pray for my brother.Great Song
When Joey began talking about acts of mercy, immediately a person I knew through work came to mind. He took early retirement from a janitorial job a few years earlier, his wife later divorced him, and he cannot read or write. He is too young to qualify for any social security benefits yet.I knew he struggled financially. He did not even have a bank account. He does not own a car and given his lack of education, has a hard time finding another job. He was heavy on my mind and heart, I looked up his address and drove to his apt. on Good Friday. His door was open as someone was in his tiny, 1 room place working on the refrigerator. He told me it had just gone out. His conditions were difficult to imagine, just a one room apt. with an old torn sofa and a small 13 inch TV. I shared with him that this was God's money from my Church and he was on my mind. He was very thankful. He then preceded to tell me that he goes to church every Sunday, soon he will be baptized and that he was a Christian. As I drove away, I knew that gift would help him out.
The following is a string of facebook messages that took place on April 1st, 2010. I have changed the other party's name for confidentiality.
Subject: Car Repair
April 1 at 12:26pm
Julie,
Hello, it has been a long time. I saw on facebook that your car needs to have the computer fixed on it and you don't have the money to repair it.
Last week, my church held a special event where they gave members of the the congregation a hundred bill to "show mercy". I would like to mail you a check for the hundred dollars that was given to me to help you fix your car if you will allow me to. If you would respond with your mailing address, I will drop a check in the mail tomorrow.
Thank you and God Bless,
-Brennan
April 1 at 12:27pm
is this an april fools joke??
-Julie
April 1 at 12:28pm
Absolutely not... I am hundred percent serious.
-Brennan
April 1 at 12:34pm
O Brennan thank you so much you have no idea how much this means to me....it has been a hard month for me because i already forked out 250 on my car and my x husband lost his job and i have not been getting child support....so this is a blessing for me and my kids....
(Julie's Address omitted)
-Julie
April 1 at 12:35pm
I'll Pay you back when i get some extra cash
-Julie
April 1 at 12:44pm
You are most welcome, though as I said in the initial email, the gift is really from my church and from God, I only saw the need.
I will mail the check tomorrow.
I would prefer that you do not pay me back even when you have the extra cash. Instead, if you feel compelled to, help someone else out in need when you have the opportunity.
Take Care,
-Brennan
April 1 at 12:46pm
thank you so much :)
-Julie
April 4 at 11:44am
just wanted to thank you again and let you know the check came in yesterday and my car is running great now...
-Julie
I shared this with a family and replaced their basketball goal.
Your love for the Lord is evident in everything you do. The parents open their home to others, teach many, counsel several, and in the years I have known you, shown mercy to thousands both domestically and abroad. The children are kind, giving, and yearn to love others as they see their parents do. It is for this reason, I believe, that God has led me to show you mercy at this time. It is a simple thing but I feel the impact it will have goes far beyond the physical enjoyment and will help direct and mold many lives. I see the joy of other children playing with yours and this act of mercy is a central element of that. It is my desire to see that joy continued and nurtured. Thus I love the ability to show your family this small act of mercy because I know how you will use it.
Yesterday, a couple freinds and I decided to hang out before I had to go to church, so we went and got some ice-cream and were just laughing and hanging out just like any other teenagers. Then I asked my friend had she spent her money, one said I already show'd mercy the other said she hadn't. Then of course we got a jolt of energy and wanted to do a random handout. So we asked ourselves whats a basic need? GAS!!! so we head towards Casey's and when we got there everyone there already seemed filled with joy so we pulled up to the back parking lot and one of the workers seemed so upset and flusstered at first we were reluctent to give it to her since she was smoking a cigarrette, but she was just one of those ladies who just needed a break. So Hillary got out of the car walked up to her and said
GOD wanted me to give this too you and the hard times will pass than jumped into the car and we drove off!! :) THEN IT WAS MY TURN, after many options to locations where people could go, we decided to check out McDonalds since the workers always seem to be unhappy. So we walked into the store and as I made a comment about how nice the they had redesigned it. The man immidetly COORALIATED, it sure is. At that moment I felt my heart jump, but I was still checking out my surroundings and I watched this tired old man leaning against the wall (same guy who made the comment) bringing his kids to have dinner. He looked so tired, but he kept smiling at his children. I knew it was for him. I went up to him and told him i know god wants me to give this to you, he has a plan for you he refused to take it at first, but I told him it wasn't mine it was God's and he still didn't want it then I said please I know God wanted me to give this to you he said thank you! I believe in God and GAVE ME AND ALL MY FRIENDS HUGS &&KISSES XOXO ;)
Through the game of basketball, I have met a very humble young man. I gladly gave $100 dollars to a very honest coach. This coach spends countless hours with my son and two different teams. He came into my son's life and has been a great Christian inspiration to my family and my son's team. Anyway, the money will give this young man a chance to improve his skills on the court. Not only is he a great leader to the younger kids....I believe that he will earn a scholarship to play ball someday. He will be the first person in his family to go to college. I am proud to know him...and so glad that my son can follow his lead. Thank you Gateway and Jesus for leading us in the right direction...."TOGETHER"!
I knew I'd be out running errands today, seeing alot of people, and prayed about who I could show kindness to. A few hours later I saw a couple walking along 39th street out by Walmart and felt this was them. The man had on a heavy jacket (it was almost 80 out), a cast on his arm, and they were both carrying a full bag. It was hard to find a good spot to stop as there was alot of traffic, so I stalked them nicely :) across several parking lots until they stopped at a bench near Kohls. I parked, went over and said, "Hi, I go to Gateway Church in B.S. and someone donated some money and asked that we pass it on as a blessing to others. I noticed the cast on your arm and wondered if you could use this." I handed him the $100 and he smiled and said, "Oh we sure could use it now, thank you." I said, "it's not from me, it's from God," and gave him a hug and went back to the car. In retrospect, I wish I would have paused for a minute to see if they wanted to talk or had a story.
Thanks for the opportunity. It was a great reminder of how I can show mercy every day with or without money if I slow down and ask God to lead me!
At the end of the service on the 28th, we each took one of the bills with the intent of passing it on to separate people as God led us.
He had other plans.
A family member has been a believer for many years, but like so many others, things got in the way and a relationship with God became less and less of a likelihood. Church attendance had become something that was just out of the question, because he felt like God didn’t really care about him anymore.
He went in to work on Monday and found out that he had been ‘let go’. His world had been teetering on the brink for some time, but this news sent him over the edge and circling the drain. He even commented that he didn’t even have enough gas money to take his son to basketball practice! No job, no money, no hope.
God made it abundantly clear that both monies should go to the family member with the message that this was from his Heavenly Father and that He wanted His child to know that he was not alone.
We shared the story of how the money came into existence and that it was not our money, and that God wanted to show him mercy and for us to pass this money on to him.
The family member protested that he couldn’t take it because “I’m not worthy, I don’t deserve it.” Exactly! We shared how none of us are worthy, but that God loves us anyway and knows our struggles and wants to help when we let Him.
He just sat there for a while bewildered and humbled that God still cared about him!
He left our house encouraged and looking forward to getting back on his feet so he can be the helper, not the helped. The last thing he said as he walked out the door was “I think I can take my son to basketball practice now!”
God is Great!
I feel inclined to post from the opposite side, as the receiver. My husband and I have been struggling for quite some time now, but somehow we've always made it work. Recently though, all the extra jobs have stopped, my job is slower than ever and we just can't make it. For some reason- last week I opened the fridge and just said wow. It was so empty. Cabinets were empty. I sing a song when food is scarce- Making dinner...out of nothing at all.- I sang it when i would put together all the odds and ends to try and put a meal together. Anyway, for some reason, I took picture of my empty fridge.maybe someday, to remind me of where we've been - I don't really know. (I did take the opportunity to clean the shelves) That evening I was with a group of friends from Gateway- and randomly as I was leaving one of the women put a card in my purse. I went home and remembered to open it, as I had no idea what it was about... inside, a gift card to Hyvee.I cried for so many reasons.
Thank you so much, you know who you are, and thank you Gateway for teaching us all how to love like our Lord.
We decided to use the gift God gave by blessing the children in our neighborhood at Easter. We used the money to buy over 175 eggs and all sorts of goodies to fill them with. We also grilled hot dogs and made lemonade for children and any parents that came along. There was $7 left so I got three golden eggs and distributed what was left in them for the kids to find. After the egg hunt I told them about how God blessed our church and we were able to put this together because of how awesome God is and they all thought that was really great!
Since given this gift of $100 by some gracious Gateway members, I had been praying about what God had intended for me to do with it. I was running normal errands & stopped by Costco to pick up a prescription. During my wait I overheard an elderly handicapped lady tell the pharmacist she had to put a couple prescriptions back until next month (she had numerous meds). I knew then that this is what God had intended for my $100. I lightly tapped her shoulder and told her God told me to give this to you for your meds. At first she refused but in the end she hugged me & told me God Bless. It is such a great feeling to help someone in need!
I what to thank Gateway and its anonymous donor for this opportunity to share with others. At church the day that this was announced I immediately thought of a employee/student at the Business and Technology Campus of the Metropolitan Community College where I go to school. His name is Vada Boone and he always has an encouraging word for me when I run into him. I know that he, like me, has had a brain injury in the recent past and we have had several conversations but not ever one as meaningful as the one I was able to have with him when I was able the show him God's Mercy by handing him $100! He has had a rough life and is attempting to follow a better road and this was a very timely act because he is currently trying to become more self dependent. He shared with me that he is in a living situation that has him depending on others for transportation and wants to get out of it. I hope that this $100 is God's seed to help Vada in whatever way it can, and please help me pray that Vada can find the means to take care of the issues he is facing!!! If anyone knows of an inexpensive, around $500, car that he could purchase, please let me know. He currently has his job at the school, and he is soon without a way to get to it!
That Sunday at church was amazing, I am always seeing people in need all over,but do not have the funds to help.. I had so much in mind for my $100 dollars I was going to do this and that, but me and my fiance stopped and talked about it, we do Dave Ramsey on Tuesday nights and its so hard to hear peoples struggles and to know we are right there with them in the same struggle,but when people have little kids at home and that struggle is affecting them its even harder to listen because I love little kids with a passion. We talked about it and I prayed about it and asked God if this was right and it was. This past Tuesday at class my fiance finally got to come to class so we got her a card and wrote a little note and after class even though we didn't know her and she didn't know us we just went up and said hey open this when you get home.. We felt so good because the look on her face was very puzzled but knew when she got home she'd be happy atleast we hope lol. It definetly feels so good to help someone and I hope we can continue doing it maybe not that much but in little ways we can.
This gift from Gateway gave me a chance to help two people that have been very supportive and encouraging during my struggles and who now are in need of financial help themselves. I am thankful for the opportunity to pay it forward and help them.
We were able to bless a friend who had some unexpected travel expenses related to her kids and their father. I know that the money allows her to breathe a little easier and not stress over where the gas money will come from!
Since walking out of the gym, I've been trying to figure out who God wanted the money to help. I teach and have many students in my classes and know of a few in the school I thought would benefit from it, and even had a few plans for the different students if God showed me it was them. However, I felt God was telling me to hold on, and he would show me when the time was right. Today, I learned something about a student in the school, whom I've never had in class but has opened up to me just from a few quick encounters. She has been in trouble all year and was actually at risk of being suspended for a long period of time. I have tried to be a supportive and non-judgemental adult for her to talk to or just to encourage her. I saw her briefly this morning before school, but didn't have a chance to say anything. She looked worse emotionally than I had ever seen her. Later in the morning I learned that her older brother, whom she adored, was on life support and having his organs harvested later today. Some choices he made in life ended his life very early and unexpectedly. From what I understood, neither he nor the family had any insurance or money to cover any of the medical or funeral expenses. God "squeezed" my heart and told me that this was the family who needed His mercy. I had just the right card in my classroom and sent it with a note telling about the generous couple, the mercy that God intended for them, scripture that helps me get through good and bad times, and let them know that I would be praying for them. I am anxious to see how God works in their lives!
God always shows us where He wants us to act for Him in mercy if we only ask and seek. I didn't know right away who to give the money to- at first, I didn't want to have the responsibility. But, I heard God's soft whisper and so I took it, knowing that He would show me where to put it. Two years ago, I felt God prompting my heart to talk to an older man who had been in the library reading the newspaper several times. I chatted with him for a bit, and didn't think anything of it. I hadn't seen him since then, and about a week after I had the money to give, I saw him in the library again. I silently knew that God was putting him before me, but told Him that I needed to know that he was in need of this mercy. So, I went over and talked to him again- he remembered my name, and was so precious. He told me he thought he knew some of my friends that helped out at the soup kitchen- and that was what I needed. I didn't have the money with me then, and I didn't want him to know it was from me, so I put the money in an envelope with a verse that God lay on my heart for him- John 10:10- "the thief comes to steal, kill, and destroy, but I have come so that they may have life, and have it to the full". I knew that the Lord would bring him back to me, so that I could show him mercy on God's behalf. Sure enough, a few days later, he was sitting in the spot he was always in lately. I was just telling God that I needed someone to give it to him, when one of my friends who knows the Lord walked up. I asked him if he would do me a random favor. Without asking any questions, he looked at me with understanding and gave it to Larry for me. I was so blessed by God wanting to use me to show mercy. It just goes to show Ephesian 1:11- "In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will". God knew he wanted me to show mercy to Larry when He prompted me to talk to him and plant a seed 2 years ago- WOW!! I am blown away by His faithfulness.
When I first took the money, I had a specific person in mind, but decided to wait and pray about this more, as another individual was suggested to me as someone who could use this blessing. I knew it wasn't for me to judge who needed the money more than the other - so I waited and prayed. It became clear to me when I received a phone call from one of these individuals on my heart and learned that they were recently released from the nursing home (was supposed to be an 8 month rehab program) and back home, off all prescription narcotics and working to rebuild her life. She was recently widowed and has had years and years of health issues and hardships. It was close to Easter - so I sent a card, included the money and told her of the generosity of a young couple and the outreach of this gift by our church and that I hoped this money would be a blessing to her. I also matched it, and sent another card to her daughter, as she has been tasked with caring for all of the affairs of her mother while she went through this rehab program, and I know circumstances in both of their lives is dire. I received a text message of WOW! and a phone call of appreciation. I know that God is watching over them, as they are in another state, and without much family support.
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33
I have continuously been in prayer for God to place someone in my path that needs mercy...for him to show me just who to use this $100 to reach out to. Today began as a horrible day...strained neck, late to work only to get there and 15 minutes later receive a call that my family member was in a car accident. I was just on my way to my mom's house, driving down woods chapel and passed an older man sitting on the side of the road. From his clothing, price chopper bags full of his few things and demeanor you could only guess he was homeless. I kept driving, as we often do seeing a homeless man. But as I drove a little further I kept feeling God say "go back". After much hesitation, I finally heeded Gods calling and turned around. I found a place to park at Tucker Chiropractic and walked over to tlak to the man. I had no idea what I was going to say nor what to expect. I asked him if I could sit down with him and he said yes. I asked him his name and introduced myself. We went on for the next half hour to talk about where he was going and what he was doing. He was very vague and only answered specific questions, you could tell he didnt not want to say he was homeless. His name is Stanley. He says he has family in Kansas City and was waiting for the bus. He said he was a janitor but when I asked where he had no answer. When I asked if I could call a family member for him, he said no thank you. When I asked if I could get anything for him he said no. He reached in his pocket and pulled out seven cents. He asked if I could give him one dollar for the bus. I pulled out the $100 and told him I would like to give him the money. At first he would not take it. I insisted and he took it, placing it in his sock and said thank you. I told him it was from God. He said Amen and that God sent his sister (my name) to him. I asked if there was anything else I could do and he said I had already embraced him and that was enough. I asked him if I could do one more thing...pray with him...somethng that is very difficult for me. As I began to pray, he started talking over me praying over both of us. It was so awesome to sit with him and have him pray, thanking God for sending me. I told him I was thankful God sent me him. I called a friend and told them about my experience. They asked the normal questions..what if they spend it on alcohol or worse. I answered that i cannot control that. I realized its not about the money but about the love we stop to show people. And furthermore that maybe the mercy was truly on me. I left smiling and feeling like I had a new friend...a new friend named Stanley. If by chance you pass him on Woods Chapel please stop to say hi and show mercy on Stanley. I am not sure if God sent me to Stanley, or Stanley to me in the midst of a horrible day. But I know God showed mercy on both of us this afteroon.
I immediately had a couple in mind when Joey announced the plan for the money. In a support meeting I lead, there is a couple who have both recently lost their jobs. They had just felt comfortable enough with me to let me know this the week before.
Although I was pretty sure I knew what God had in mind for me to do with the money, I prayed over and over for the next 2 weeks. I missed the next meeting so I asked God to be sure that they showed up in a meeting they don't typically attend so I'd know for sure that they were the ones. (I guess I put out the fleece.)
They did show up and I spoke with the woman and gave her the money. She cried and laughed and hugged and laughed some more. She thanked me and I let her know it was not from me, but from God.
She went out to her car and let her husband know what had just happened. He reentered, found me, cried, smiled, laughed, hugged and thanked me over and over. I told him as well where it came from.
I've since found out that he will be employed again as of May 1. PRAISE GOD!!!! for the provisions...the money and the job!
And a big thank you to the couple who donated the money for hearing God's prompting and acting on it!
A few months ago, a family friend passed away under horrible circumstances. She left behind a 16 month old little boy. I thought of her little boy during that church service where the money was handed out. That little boy will never know his mommy and never hear her say I love you. He will never have her cuddle him when he has a nightmare. He will never see her smile when he accomplishes anything in his life. Anytime I think of this friend, my heart cries for her little boy and the life she was about to have. I constantly pray for her and for her family so that they can one day find Gods strength and be happy.
There was a scholarship in her name developed and a fund for her little boy. I have sent the money to be put in to one of these two accounts in her memory.
After receiving our money from Gateway, we sat down with our family at lunch and started to brainstorm. Asking our children for their thoughts and ideas. My husband made a statement that with hind sight I know was direct discernment from God. He said “what would happen if we pooled our funds?” I wonder how God could use us? We continued to brainstorm. Then went on with our day.
We held on a week, nothing…on week two we were driving downtown, my husband and I were discussing who again...a neighborhood close by had a need and our HOA had sent emails asking for help, although that is a noble cause, I said let's pray about it... at the moment my thoughts were “I don’t think that’s it”. I think God will make it clear to us who we should show Mercy to and how. The very next day I received a call from a friend. Someone God had already put on my heart several months before. We had become good friends, talking several days a week. This particular day she shared some hard times that her family had been going through. Things that broke my heart, things I “should have known” as a friend. I immediately knew this was it. I started praying as we continued our conversation. I emailed my husband and was confused as to how to handle this. Was there a non-invasive way to help? Was I supposed to share this sensitive information? His discerning response was simple, “we have to just lay it out to our life group, be transparent”. So I immediately emailed our life group. God began stirring the hearts of those He wanted to participate. I began receiving emails and phone calls. The response was AMAZING! God’s love and compassion was all over this! Several people still had their $100, and wanted to contribute. We spoke to our children and those who wanted to donate their $100 did. I had a phone call from someone wanting to donate diapers, another asking about gift cards, groceries…etc. Everyone started praying over how they could help. I had also put out a plea for some help on Sunday afternoon to do some yard work and landscaping, that would help this family’s business. Sunday morning I only had 3 people say they were coming. We were going to start working at 1:00pm, by 2:00pm there were 18 people working together. It was like a mini mission trip! Everyone using their own gifts and talents... The transformation of the yard was unbelievable! Saturday night as we were planning, we handed them $1000 to help with finances! Sunday morning another gate-wayer gave me an envelope with $100 to donate to this family! While working in the yard a father donated another $100, we watched as two middle school children humbly gave their $100! We created a curiosity in the neighborhood, one family that were friends with them, came to see what was going on and said “you can’t have a barn raising without feeding these people”…let me give you some funds to go to the store.” The next day another family donated five brand new outfits for each of the children, and had filled a new backpack with supplies for one of the children to be able to attend a new school this week. I found out later that the same man that donated to feed us (who thought Christians were not all they are cracked up to be) returned and donated $200 for the father to go on the Peru Mission Trip! At life group this week we discussed “why” should we be surprised or amazed at what God did? Shouldn’t we have known how He would provide? We then began brainstorming about how we could continue to help each other with projects, projects each of our families have…breaking down the walls of pride and being Acts 2 believers. We talked about how we could spend time together lifting each other up and serving one another! How greatly blessed and honored we ALL are!
Ephesians 3:20-21 (King James Version)
20Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
21Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
Holy cow this was an awesome opportunity! Whoever donated the money to do this thank you for entrusting us with the money God blessed you with. I have been amped since day one of this assignment! I love helping people in need. I often stop and pick up hitch hikers and feel bad that all I can offer them is someone to listen and to take them to City Union Mission. So I was searching for someone to help and praying daily for God to lead me to do the right thing and bless the right person. I have to admit I was getting a bit impatient. I thought about trying to multiply it (Matthew 25) but never felt 100% on that idea. But today was the day; Right time, right person, right place and God’s timing.
Today as I left rendezvous I stopped by QT. I was walking out and saw a mini-van with the back window busted out and thought now is my chance. I jumped in my vehicle, grabbed my bible and got the $100 BILL. I walked over and the gentleman sitting in the seat looking frustrated and was probably a little freaked out about some big scruffy lookin goofball comin up to his window. I said hello and asked what happened to his window. He said he didn’t know, it had just broke out. I then told him I had been praying for an opportunity to use this money to help someone out and it looked like he needed it. So I handed it to him and said I hope this helps. I headed to my truck. He got out of his vehicle and ran over to me and asked for my info. I told him no need for thanks it was a blessing for me to be able to help. I told him what our church was doing and I hoped it helped. He thanked me with a joyful tear in his eye. I gave him a hug and told him I felt God lead me there to help him and told him to have a great day.
I hope God really blesses this guy and his family. I really felt great about being a vessel for God to bless someone. Once again thank you for letting us be a part of this.
As someone pursuing a degree in the education field, it is quite natural for me to have a heart for students. When I began praying and asking God to show me how He wanted to use the money I felt He was asking me to use it on a student. At this point I didn’t know who the kid would be or what kind of need he or she would have, so I continued to pray.
Being a Teacher Aide for a credit recovery program, I work with a population of students that are considered to be “at-risk.” For most of these students, struggling academically is only a small fraction of the problems they face. Therefore, when I kept hearing over and over that the investment would be made not only on a student, but a student expecting to have a child, I wasn’t completely surprised. However, I was still unclear. I thought, “God, I don’t have any student’s that are pregnant and I thought you were telling me you wanted me to use the money on a student that I know and can continue to invest in.” Still a little unsure about what I was supposed to do, I waited…
….He came walking in (yes, I said he) like he randomly would between passing periods. He was in my class last semester and stores his Biology book in my cabinet. That afternoon when he came by to grab his book I asked him the usual, “How ya doing? Are you keeping your grades up? How are things with your girlfriend and the baby?” YOUR GIRLFRIEND AND THE BABY?! … Duh! I had known since the beginning of the semester that this student was expecting to have a child this summer! I think God laughed at that moment; me being so simple minded had pictured using the money on a mother…someone literally pregnant. Over the next week, the student and I had conversations about what baby items he and his girlfriend already had & what baby items they would need. That weekend, as we shopped for his baby boy, our conversations led to the role of a Father for his son. Unfortunately, my student’s father has been in prison since he was 2 years old. We also had conversations about Gateway and the kind of church it is…since moving to Blue Springs from the city my student says he rarely makes it to church. However, he was aware of the several BSHS faculty members and students that attend. Aside from purchasing the necessary items of diaper cream, diapers, lotion, shampoo, medicine droppers, etc. the student bought a University of Missouri outfit with a matching bib and shoes. I told my student it was a good thing he picked the right school because God told me he didn’t want His money going to that other one. ;)
I am so grateful for this specific opportunity given to me so that I could show mercy to this student. It is my prayer that this $100 investment will turn into a priceless investment…an investment that allows this student to know/grow in the love of the Father and Son and to pass on the love of the Father to his son.
Almost a year ago a co-worker of mine and her husband had their first baby,then about 6 months later the husband was laid-off from his job. The day Gateway handed the 100 dollar bills, my mind went to 3-4 different places that the money would be of great use, including my co-worker. I prayed and prayed for 3 weeks,the money burning a hole in my pocket...what do I do with this Lord? Then one day in my car before going into work I said,"please Lord show me". That day my co-worker was talking to her client about her husbands insurance running out, in the same conversation she mentioned them going to the Dave Ramsey coarse. So for many reasons I gave her the money: her husband out a job,no insurance,a new baby,knowing they need financial
guidance and doing something about it,not to mention the couple are doing what they can to earn extra money by cleaning our place of business weekly but this co-worker of mine makes a difference in the life of the donor who donated the money to Gateway and help start the Jubilee Fund by pampering her every 6 weeks or so when she comes into the salon. I have always said,"there is no such thing as a coincidence. God is good!
Well, it took a while, but tonight I was directed to give the $100 to that "someone" I had prayed for. As I pulled out of a parking lot across the street from me there was a mother and her five children struggling with Dollar Store bags as they walked home. Tonight the weather is beautiful, but I knew that wasn't why they were walking to and from the store. As I pulled out and past them, watching them it hit me...I pulled over and approaching her asked if this was her family, she was cautious to reply yes, I handed her the $100 and said my mom was a single mom w/5 kids as well and I remember how hard it was. With tears in her eyes she grabbed and embraced me saying "thank you, thank you!"
God bless and keep her and her family!
First of all...a PRAISE GOD...to the ones who have made such a HUGE INVESTMENT in eternity by giving the gift...not only has the gift provided financial blessings...but you have impacted more lives than you will ever know this side of eternity because Scripture tells me that "it's more blessed to give than to receive"...you have given so many of us a taste of the blessing that comes when you give to others in acts of mercy...God is smiling HUGE on your lives!
The Sunday before the money was passed out at church, God laid a sweet single mother on my heart. A young mom with small children that God had already given me the opportunity to reach out to. I felt His stirring, asking me to step out of my comfort zone and just reach out to her and be a blessing...I am ashamed to say I did not act on that prompting that day...but...after asking...God gave me a second chance...thank YOU JESUS!
When the money was given, I knew immediately what I was going to do with it...her name was still echoing in my head...and her face was on the forefront of my mind...the decision was simple...
I learned through a mutual friend that she was in need of $130 to pay a childcare bill that she couldnt pay...God used that money combined with my friend's money to meet that need and to make a difference in her life...
The money is the tool that God is using to give us all a doorway into these precious souls lives...my prayer is that our hearts are eternally impacted with the faces and the names of the people God has put before us...I pray we don't stop with the giving...but that again and again we ask God for another chance...another paths-crossing so that these lives will be eternally changed and that they too would come to know the fulfilling walk that comes only by following Christ.
To GOD be ALL the Glory!
My husband and I were not there the day the money was handed out but after hearing of what people were doing with their mercy money I was lead to take money from our personal account and contribute it the same way. At the time of making this decision I was unsure as to what God wanted me to do with the money. As the weeks went on I received a call from a dear friend stating we had someone in our lifegroup in severe need. Without a doubt this is what God
had me holding onto the money for. As I sat and prayed about it, I was unsure as to how to give the money to this family and what they needed from me. I knew there needs were endless at this point, no food in the fridge, minimal clothes for their three children, months behind on the house payment and a child about to go to school and unable to get the supplies. As the other families in our group began handing in their mercy money we had over $1000 cash to give them. So god lead me to using the money I had set aside to go get each child 5 outfits and a bookbag full of supplies for the family so they wouldnt feel guilty getting these things with the cash when there was so many other places for it to go. The day I went to drop it off I was able to spend some time with the family and was able to personally see how greatful they were for all that had been given to them. As they are new christians it was awesome to see them recognizing God's work in their life. To be able to stand and hear them recognize all that had been done for them was the work of God was the most awesome part of this..The joy witnessed when you are able to bless the lives of others with the blessings God has given you, priceless.
Like so many others, I immediately began to pray after receiving the money, as to what God wanted me to do with it. I work in a field where I am constantly surrounded by need and could think of a school full of families that could use a little relief in their life. I continued to pray and never felt the Holy Spirit leading me in one direction or another so I held onto the money, even checking my wallet to make sure it was still there. Last Friday I was coming out of a store, not thinking about the money at all. I went around to the back of my car to get something out of my trunk, which I normally would not have done. While I was digging through my trunk, I heard someone say "Excuse me". A woman and her friend had stopped behind my car in the middle of the road and asked me if I had a few dollars to spare. They were trying to get to Research Hospital for an appointment and had no more money left for gas. I could tell this woman had had a rough go of it and as she was trying to explain why she needed the money, I told her that I did have some she could have. She pulled into the space next to my car and I put the $100 into her hand, while explaining where the money came from and that I hoped it helped her for whatever needs she had. She looked at the money and when she realized how much it was, immediately started crying and hugged me for a good solid 3 minutes. She kept saying she would pay it forward and I just told her that this was a gift with no strings attachted and that I hoped it helped whatever need she had. We began talking more and she told me that she was looking for a new place to live because she was a recovering addict and the people below her were into drugs. I was able to have a conversation with her about Mercy Ministry and gave her a bulletin with all the church information on there and encouraged her to call anytime. God's timing was so perfect and so unexpected!!! He is Good!!!!
What an amazing opportunity set before us, I praise God for the ones who donated the gift for mercy. I want to be in that position, your act has inspired me to think bigger and think outside the box.
I like many others spent alot of time praying and seeking God's will for the $100. Funny, I've never had this much trouble spending a hundred dollars before. I must admit, at first I kept it in my bible, so to pray & have scripture handy when I needed it. My husband pointed out at Life Group one night that some day I'll be cleaning out my bible and find a crisp $100 bill. Then the more I prayed the more evident it became that I wasn't even prepared. So, I took the $100 and got it split into 2 $50's. Kept it with me in my purse along with a card I laminated with 2 scriptures, Ephesians 2:8-10 on one side and Ephesians 2:4 on the other. I had been praying that God speak very loud to me when the time and person was right. The first came on Sat afternoon. I was spending some time with a soon-to-be single mom who has been devasted with the valley of life in which she is walking but declares God will see her thru this. I listened to her every word as God was practically screaming at me "GIVE HER THE MONEY" BUT ONLY 1/2. This was hard because I knew she reallly could use all of it, but God said 1/2... She was soooo greatful, she called me today to tell me all the groceries she got with it. God's timing was perfect and it was just what the amount she needed to get her thru. Then yesterday at church, I had a few minutes with someone who has answered the call to serve in Jamaica. I've heard and answered that call myself before and God has laid her on my heart heavily lately. I knew he was wanting me to give to her, but in the moment of our conversations, again God was SOOO LOUD in my ears, GIVE HER THE MONEY.... I know how difficult it was to get the money for my mission trip & when I trusted & gave it to God, he provided... I believe beyond a shadow of a doubt that she is in that "give it to God and trust He will provide" place and this was His way showing her that He has her covered...
Thank you Gateway for being a body of believers that listens and acts when God speaks...
I pass homeless people everyday when I go to and from work, I have always wanted to be able to purchase food or water for them; however, our budget hasn't allowed for me to do that regularly. I was so excited when we were given funds to show mercy. I was able to put together bags for the homeless filled with water, trail mix, sunscreen, etc.
The men always look so surprised when I roll down my window to give them their entire bag filled with supplies. The majority of the time the men say "bless you," which makes me wonder why the phrase "bless you" isn't in my normal vernacular...
It has taken me awhile to share my story but I finally have a little time. I knew right away who I was going to help with the money I received. I have known a single mother for several years through my son playing sports with her son. She was going to school and had to quit and worked a temp job around Christmas but hadn't had any luck finding a job since then. I knew from time to time she would borrow money from mutual friends but would always eventually pay them back. The day before I gave her the basket she had borrowed 20 dollars from a friend so I knew she was in need. When I called another one of our mutual friends and told her what I was doing she thought it was so great she donated 50 dollars also. I also got a donation from Hyvee for a 25 dollar gift card and added some of my own money so we ended up giving her 200 dollars. We divided it up and put in Easter eggs and made a basket with candy and eggs. I gave it to her the Thursday before Easter. I called and told her I had something for her so she came by my house having no idea what it was. (she was curious) When I gave her the basket I told her the story of the gift and how the church gave out money to show someone mercy and help someone in the community. She cried and I cried and it was a great feeling! I am new to Gateway and have to say I have never had another church feel so right. My daughter also got 100 dollars and is still seeking the right need to fill.
Our story started about a week before the money was handed out. Our life group was at Micah Ministries feeding people and my husband and I recognized one of the families there. The woman, now 33, was in the youth group when we were youth workers at our old church. She was now eating with her husband and 6 year old son. My husband was thinking about the little boy and looked on Craig's List for a video game system. He found a system that we had several games for so he called me to go to south Blue Springs to pick it up. The couple I bought it from was a young couple with a little girl who was about 2 years old. They didn't have a lot in their house and I bought the system and told my husband this couple reminded me of us when we were just starting out. All night I kept thinking about the couple. The next day, Sunday, Joey tells us he is giving $100 to anyone who wants to show mercy on someone else. Immediately I thought of this young couple. At the same time, my husband was thinking of the couple from Micah. The Micah family needed a new windshield wiper motor for their truck, which they were able to purchase with the money. When we went to take the young couple the money, I was surprised to find that they had a new baby the Monday before. I was in such a rush the prior visit, I didn't even notice the woman was pregnant. But it felt even better to bless this family with $100. God is good!!
I took the hundred dollars and new fairly soon with clarity what God was showing me. I sent the money to a single mom and daughter who I know had had a hard year. I had encountered them some through some circumstance and knew that maybe they just needed something special to help them out and lift them up at the same time. I sent the money anonymously as to avoid any embarrassment on their part. However, I did send a card with the gift card ( I changed the money into a gift card at a local store) and a note saying that they were often in my thoughts and that my church community and I just wanted them to have a blessing and something just for them. It has been such a blessing to me to just think about them opening that envelope and knowing that there is a group of believers out that the was willing to just lend a hand! Thanks Gateway Family and this awesome opportunity.
For several years we had been struggling with a major financial burden. It seemed that every effort we made always failed. Then, on God’s time table not ours, out of the blue we received a phone call from complete strangers and our struggle and decision was over.
That was four years ago and since then the once strangers and now friends are facing hardships. She has health issues and is unable to work. He is self-employed and has experienced some health issues too and less and less work over the past few months.
Finally, about a month ago we learned the he had lost his job completely. He is unable to draw unemployment because of being self-employed. Although they have continued to face challenges you would never know it. They are always positive and when most would simply give up they refuse to and continue to hold to their principles and meet each day’s challenges.
We knew that if we just gave them the money they would most likely use it to help others. We felt lead to buy a $100 grocery gift card. Totally unknown to us we bought the card at the grocery store where they regularly shop. When we presented the card and explained the love, caring, and mercy we try to show others at Gateway it was clear to them that God’s presence was with them as He continues to feed those in need. We are humbled and grateful to be a part of this amazing journey with Christ.
Since I received the $100 on March 28 I have been asking most days for God to show me clearly what to do with the money. When I saw all the football players at church yesterday and as I heard Matt Marble talking about their upcoming Peru mission trip, God made it real clear to me, like a whisper in my ear,that I should give the $100 to them for their mission trip. God gave me a strong discernment that this trip will eternally change the lives of those young men.
God spoke to me in a way to help out the teachers of my childrens school. THe school will have a teacher appreciation week in a couple weeks and they were looking for donations for gifts for their teachers. I decided to give 10$ gift cards to Chipotle, StarBucks and Bath and Body works to the teachers. I feel that our teachers that care for our children everyday for 8 hours go under appreciated. The teachers of my 2 boys are exceptional and would not trade them for the world.
When Gateway gave us the opportunity to show mercy I was thrilled! I said a prayer before I went up. I went up to Joey and like usual he gave me a little teasing, and handed me the money. I had NO idea what I was going to do with it. Later that week I was playing around on my phone and out of no where I knew what I wanted to do. I told my mom, then we called Megan Farber. I asked if there was any one she knew of that needed clothes. A couple weeks went by and I talked to her at church. There was a person she knew and gave me the sizes. So my mom and I went to this cool store and got her cool clothes. The woman working was very kind and helpful. She helped us strech our money and get fun stuff for the person.
God helped me show mercy and I feel great about my decision. God had the woman working there, and had us go there at the right time! God's timing is just right!
My best friend decided that we were going to go get something to eat together one morning. on our way there we saw a car wash that was raising money for a mission trip to Peru. we thought that it would be good to get my REALLLY dirty car washed and it was for a good cause so we did it.as we were waiting for about thirty minutes, not a single person came to the car wash.we both have experience how life changing mission trips were so this really stirred us. i then remembered that my $100 was sitting in my trunk. i had already had a plan to give the money to someone else. but we both felt that God was calling me to change my old plan and give it to these people. so we wrote them a note on a napkin and wrapped the money inside. i hope that it ended up helping!
Like many others, I tried to pre-determine where I spend the money so graciously denoted by a Gateway family. I continued to pray and ask God to show me how he wanted the money to further his mission. When I heard Matt Marble talk about the Peru mission trip for the Wildcat upcoming Sr. class, I knew that was it! Not a second thought was given.
A friend has been struggling with many things in recent years. Her husband made a mistake years ago. After accepting God into his heart, he admitted his mistake and accepted the consequences of his choice which included a prison sentence among many other lingering affects. He was recently working at a job that was helping to support his wife and four children but upon hearing of his prior conviction he was let go. The family has continued to persevere through this time in their lives knowing that God will take care of them. His wife was presented with an opportunity to go to a women's conference in Branson and the only thing that she would have to pay for would be her food and incidentals while attending the conference. She was excited about the opporunity but knew she didn't have the money to afford even that portion of the trip. It was amazing to be able to show her God's mercy and tell her that she wouldn't have to worry about the money and could just go and enjoy the weekend. This experience has been incredible. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of it.
The night before Joey had given out the 100 dollar bills, I was at Windermere with TPX and had asked Debbi Lalli why we were going to church the next morning because we were having to wake up extra early. She was telling me and a few other girls about this oppurtunity. Immediately, I thought of my sister. My sister, Brittanie, is going on a mission trip this July to Baja, Mexico. I thought of giving it to Brittanie because I've seen so much change in her life. She is always excited to tell others about the LORD and wants to serve others all the time. The other day she was sitting in my room trying to figure out how she was going to raise money for the trip, so I asked her how much it was going to cost. She said it was $700 plus airfare. I thought for a moment and knew what God wanted me to do. I walked over to my desk and took the $100 out of my jar and handed it to her. I know that this experience will be life changing for her and I'm so happy she is living her life for the LORD!!!
I turned and walked away with one hundred dollars in my breast pocket tucked so deeply away I knew I would forget it. Not reaching out to anyone and knowing Joey often calls us out of our comfortable box I headed for the door with my head down so as not to see anyone seeing me. I took the path of the least resistance; knowing all too well I'm not a salmon, I came face to face with Peggy and Mike Roderick. Seeing Peggy stand before me I reached deep into the pocket I had forgoten about and pulled the money out and placed in her hands telling her with tears streaming down my face that God had moved me to give this to her. I don't know what you will do with this I don't know if you need this but I do know you have a son in the military and often try to go see him so perhaps it's just for gas or even for him to do something with for his fellow soldiers. Before I turn to leave I give her a hug and say goodbye to Mike and with tears flowing like a spring rain down all our faces I turn to leave and know deep in my heart it was not my hand that reached into my pocket...it was not my feet that walked the path to them but the Spirit of my Father taking a moment to use me for His Greater Good...
I saw a child in a video that was not much more than a year old who had no food to eat. The child didn’t look real, as it was skin and bones. The baby was sitting in a bed looking up at the camera and trying to smile as children do but there were no rosy baby cheeks. The child had only a sunken face. I heard a quote that claims approximately 18,000 people die EVERY DAY due to malnutrition. The next photo in the video was of the same little one a month later after getting nourishment. It was then a bouncing baby, full of baby fat and smiling after getting meals.
My wife and I were fortunate enough to be invited to volunteer for the non-profit “Feed My Starving Children” organization with some other Gateway members. This was an assembly line ordeal with many volunteers scooping food such as grain and rice into a baggie which was then sealed and boxed to go to Nicaragua. The boxed food literally went to starving children, with each bag holding 6 meals and having several nutrients in each bag. Each meal cost a mere 17-19 cents.
I have been praying for the Lord to let me know what I should with the blessing of my torch and any time I considered passing it along it just was not the right moment. I had the hundred dollar bill in my wallet the whole time. I felt the Lord in a strong, strong way this particular day. My torch went into the donation box. The organization quoted that 94% of the proceeds goes directly to the program, and one hundred dollar bill will be for 600 meals for starving children! I encourage others to visit this particular organization and Google “Feed My Starving Children” and make a doantion, hwever small. Please remember, 17-19 cents to give someone who is literally starving a meal.
I will also have another torch in my wallet, as I have vowed to double it and keep one with me when the Lord wants me to help out any other way. Don’t let this experience be just another memory. I pray that nobody forgets this act of kindness that fortunate Gateway members shared with us, and continue to pass kindness on every way possible! Please don’t forget it.
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