Monday, June 30

BBQ at the Welbourns

We had our first "evening event" this past Saturday at my Parents house in Mendham. Pulled pork BBQ brought directly from North Carolina by my grandparents. Doesn't get much better.

In the hours leading to the event my stomach was in knots. I was excited for the group of people joining us that evening. We had a great mix. Some family, some long time friends, one of my mentors was there. I knew people would receive our message.... at least..... politely. I was fairly sure we wouldn't be facing any hecklers that evening. Even with this confidence in the people I knew the moment would come when we would need to ask. Ask people to partner in our ministry. Partner financially and, equally important, through prayer.

Well, the presentation went well. We had an amazing video, prepared by one of our BFA partners, that did an amazing job illustrating the ministry in a way we couldn't. My wife told the group about the road we've taken leading up to that night and challenges and blessings we've experienced. She did a wonderful job. I was actually surprised at how well I did. At one point during the conversation I noticed my hand shaking a little bit, but for the most part, I was able to share our vision, passion, and conviction we feel for the calling God has laid on our lives. Plus, the food was great and that never hurts the cause.

In the end numerous blessings came that night. The most tangible, a significant financial contribution, completely blew Stephanie and myself away and further demonstrated the powerful ways in which God works. The more subtle blessings were personal heart felt responses to our presentation. These responses in a way further commissioned us to pursue our goal.They eased our hearts and minds with the knowledge people stand firmly behind us in God's calling. After it was all said and done I sat in my parent's living room completely exhausted. At the same time my heart was light. God demonstrated power through his provision and grace through people's words. It was a good night.

-LW

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Glad things went well. We have another one - probably our last one - tomorrow...

Also, I played a game with some friends the other night that was AWESOME! It's called "Pandemic" and it's a lot like Settlers, except you work together instead of against each other. I'm going to do my best to get it, but it's really hard to find.

See you in a month or so...

Adam and Laura said...

Sounds like you two had a great night! How wonderful. We're praying for you guys to reach your support level soon, too! Just a few more weeks. See you soon.
-Adam