When my co-worker asked me if I’d be interested in helping him with electrical work for a church remodel, my first thought was that it was a long shot. Why? Because the church was in Hawaii! My co-worker (who is also a Christian) is good friends with the pastor of the Hawaiian church.
The plans were to remodel about 5,000 square feet of their building (add classrooms, a kitchen and a reception area). Kaminski Construction, a contractor from Eugene, Oregon, is recruiting new team members to fly to Oahu (donating their labor and craftsmanship); they needed two electricians. I told my co-worker I’d talk to my wife but honestly didn’t think it could happen. But, it did!
Our good friends offered to watch our four kids for an entire week (so I could take my wife along). For what I thought was a long shot, the details fell into place quite effortlessly. Before we knew it, my wife and I were walking on a beach in Waikiki, watching the sunset. Our long shot had actually happened — we were in Hawaii!
It was a whirlwind week. Kaminski Construction and their two, new electrician friends from Utah went to work! As a result, we not only finished the initial project, but added a guest bedroom (with a bathroom) and fixed several issues in the building. We started out as strangers, but by the end of the week, felt like family. Our common goal was to get as much work done as possible. In short, we wanted to bless the socks off of that church.
Serving One Another
On the last day, we had a chance to sign one of the walls and leave a note. Fighting back tears of joy, I wrote this: “As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace… whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” — 1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV)
I’m convinced that the only reason my long shot happened, is because God was behind it every step of the way. Not only did He bless the church body in Hawaii (through our work there), He also allowed us to meet and happily work alongside each other. Because our dear friends took care of our children, my wife and I had the opportunity to spend evenings and the last day exploring the island. We served to bless and were blessed to serve.
What gift has God given you to bless other Believers? Step out in faith and use it. Bless and serve others because God is glorified when we do!
Looking for the next long shot,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor