I continue to be so proud of Montgomery Baptists and other Christian friends as we all work together to share Christ with others in Montgomery. Many have shown “goodness and sacrifice” this Christmas season and God will bless those efforts. Hebrews 13:16(ESV) says:
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” For the last 2 years, churches, businesses and individuals have shared God’s love with Montgomery families through a toy sale sponsored by Montgomery Baptist Association Church and Community Ministries along with Community of Hope and Forest Park Ministry Center. Just like last year, this year proved that prayer and hard work are the key to a great day of service. Approximately 200 parents were served on Saturday, December 11th at Heritage Baptist Church’s Family Life Center. Those 200 parents that came represented about 1000 people in their households. Because of the generosity of churches, businesses and individuals, these parents were able to purchase some new toys at very low cost. Many were surprised at being treated so well. Shopping buddies, wrappers, loaders and café/prayer workers showered each parent with care and love as they came through. Those behind the scenes worked very hard to make sure everything was in place so that shopping would go smoothly. In fact there were about 150 volunteers from both MBA and other Christian churches in the Montgomery area.
We found this year that many people had been either laid off or were working jobs that just didn’t meet their financial obligations. One such couple, John and Mindy*, came because John had been laid off from a job that had taken care of his family for many years. They had 3 children and had been blind-sided by this lay off. Volunteers helped them pick out brand new toys as well as prayed for them and encouraged them. As they left, Mindy stopped by the desk and thanked everyone for the tender, loving care that had been shown to her and husband. They felt happy and relieved that some of the burden had been lifted that day.
Claudia* is a single woman who adopted 3 very rambunctious boys. She works but needed a little extra assistance this year. She has sacrificed her fun, single life to be the parent that these boys needed so desperately. Volunteers prayed for her to be the mother God intended her to be and to bring healing to these boys lives. She was encouraged about her journey and knows that even when things are tight, God is still in control. She left “refreshed” by the love and care she experienced.
Here is a note I received from a volunteer after the Toy Sale. Thought it was the most magnificent news.
“Just wanted to report, while praying in the Cafe at the Toy Sale Saturday, four people received salvation! One lady was able to forgive someone who hurt her deeply over fifty years ago. Another young lady I remember particularly, came in angry and offended but after having her prayer needs lifted to the Lord, said she felt so "different" and she left smiling a big warm smile.Because of the hard work you all put into organizing this event, God, through the Holy Spirit touched many lives”.
I am happy to report that 48 (34 MBA, 14 other) Montgomery Christian churches participated through volunteering, giving of toys and money and getting things set up for the big day! Everyone did so with love and good cheer! I think of this verse as I say thanks to everyone who helped that day from Hebrews 6:10(ESV). “For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do”.
Thank you Montgomery Baptists and other Christian friends that sacrificed so much to make this Toy Sale truly a witness of God’s Love to Montgomery! May your Christmas be blessed for your efforts!
Along the Journey,
Lisa Rose
Thank you to these churches, businesses and schools that helped make the toy sale a success.
Montgomery Baptist Association churches
Baptist Health System
Jackson Hospital
Anchor Mortgage
Blue Cross Blue Shield/Montgomery
Macon East Academy
LAMP
Walmart/Atlanta Highway
Faith Radio
