And, it was said, a great time was had by all. Well, if you were not fortunate enough to attend the Land Partners Campaign Dinner, you missed a real blessing. God rained down His blessings on His people! Based on the continued comments, we believe each person was filled with more than just the delicious dinner served. Between the unexpected testimonies and angelic singing, they almost made us forget that we were not at church. You could sense God’s presence with each person who participated. And, though we had inclement weather, this did not hinder our faithful partners from coming out and sharing in a most remarkable evening. The ambiance of the room, beautifully decorated with Christmas cheer, only added to this grand and festive occasion. Words fall short of expressing our gratitude and abundant joy for a most memorable experience.
The evening began with Pastor Doug Wooten of Asbury United Methodist Church in Madison, AL, offering prayer. However, before his prayer, Pastor Doug described a narrative, comparing DAP with the humble beginnings of the Downtown Rescue Mission, which was very tastefully and appropriately expressed. Our exuberant MC, Pastor Cherise Gardner kept everyone’s attention with her God-given talent of engaging and entertaining the guests. Mike Chapman and Alison Corey from Chapman Sisson Architects presented the Master Plan, which made our vision come alive. To see everything in its completion made our faith grow leaps and bounds. We knew, there’s no turning back now, because God is making our vision a reality. We have now seen the evidence, and believe that God allowed this to increase our faith, strength and belief in Him.
God has put genuine, true-hearted people in our lives. Speaking of, Gwen Rush, the property owner’s daughter, flew in from Denver to attend the dinner and provided a bit of historical background. Moreover, Gwen shared how God gave her mother a sense of assurance that the property would be in good hands with DAP. Christian artist, Peggy Connor, performed three beautiful songs. She brought inspiration and encouragement by uplifting everyone with her powerful voice, which she uses for Christ at every opportunity that knocks at her door. Our hearts overflow with gratitude as we contemplate friends and family, who came from far and near, to help make this a momentous occasion.
To climax the evening, we celebrated one graduate, Emil Castro; as well as two very powerful testimonies from graduates, Anthony Frazier and Lonny Shattuck. Emil’s lovely family traveled all the way from southern California and Denver, CO to share in his joy and achievements. The atmosphere was so filled with the Spirit of God, and it seemed to have been felt by all. We were so thankful and felt that the evening could not have been more special.
As I prepared to give my speech, it dawned on me that everything I prepared to talk about had already been iterated for me by each person who spoke. I marveled at the personal handiwork of God. Did you know, God works mightily when we surrender our will to Him?
Christmas always reminds us of the importance of expressing gratitude. In many instances in the Bible, Jesus did thank the Father before doing the miracles. As we find ourselves asking for a miracle, we too give thanks for all of our faithful Land Partners who are helping to make this vision real. Cliff and I go before God constantly, thanking Him for YOU! DAP cannot do this without you.
We continue to ask for your extended prayers and support. If God is impressing upon your heart to give, put His promises to the test and give a large donation during this gift-giving season. We look forward to hearing how God has blessed you in return. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! We love and appreciate you!
