“If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”
I John 3:17-18
Making an Impact
Our church recently lost a dear lady, Norma Crass. Many years ago Norma invested in an 8 year old girl who she noticed was coming to church by herself. Norma asked her to join her in a girl’s discipleship program at church on Wednesday nights. Over the years, Norma would faithfully take her to church, VBS, summer camps, youth group. In high school their friendship blossomed. They became exercise partners, regularly meeting at the UCA track. Encouraged by Norma, the girl attended Central Baptist College and was helped often (without her knowledge) by the financial generosity of Norma and her husband.
Forever Changed
This young girl grew into an adult that loved the Lord. She met her husband at church. They had 3 children. She led her children to the Lord and raised them to love and serve Him. She never forgot how, as a little girl, Norma invested in her. Norma fostered a desire in her to invest in others. Over the years she has discipled and mentored many young women and continues doing so to this day.
This young girl’s name was Holly Price and is now my wife. Because of Norma the trajectory of Holly’s life changed forever.
Investing Eternally
In MD5 we talk about generosity and investing eternally. This was Norma. She put words into action. She gave time, encouragement, and money. She gave a young girl a ride to church.
When we invest in others, God can create a ripple effect that often goes beyond what we see or know. Because Norma invested in the life of an 8-year-old girl, my life was forever changed. My kid’s lives were changed. And the ripple continues.
Be Encouraged & Invest
Many of us get discouraged wondering if we are having an impact. Do not be discouraged. Our job is to invest. God provides the growth. Keep investing. You never know what ripples you are making that God will use to impact future generations.
John Meriweather
MD5 Facilitator