By Rickie

Hi, I am Rickie, adopted cat at First Christian Church. The team was tuckered out tonight so I volunteered to write the update. After all, I sit by the door all-day and night and see and hear everything.   
 
I’ve been around a few years now watching groups come and go. It’s been amazing how many pass by. Some folks in Dawson Springs wonder why anyone would come and help complete strangers. And, continue to show up to help. The teams say it’s to show the love of Jesus. Personally I am thankful for this kind of love. I showed up one day and for no real reason they show me love. Like the pastor says, if God takes care of the birds of the air (and thankfully cats too) then how much more does he care for his children.  Folks around here, while sometimes puzzled, are absolutely grateful for a stranger’s help.
 
Today the work groups left to continue the projects  started yesterday. I heard from a friend that lives at Joe’s house that the handrails were a real team building exercise to problem solve and install. But they look amazing. Joe so enjoyed the companionship, hanging out, and everyone enjoyed talking with him (small world story… he has family in Michigan City whom he had visited regularly)  Joe is a Veteran serving in the Vietnam and Korea. Beth and Phil felt a call to replace his tattered flag. He beamed when it was presented.
 
I hear from my seven friends staying at the nice lady’s house for foster cats that the team helped her by doing a lot of painting and repair. My friends say she got taken advantage by a contractor and had few funds to make it look right. It is looking great now!
 
My friend who lives at the kudzu vine and brush clearing project says the owner is amazed at the transformation of the yard. The crew finished in two days what the CrossRoads Missions thought would need finishing by someone else after Vineyard left.  Atta  boy vine cleaners. Ten loads and all your digits intact. They are truly a Vineyard Church for that project
Tonight after dinner they all piled in cars and raced off again.  Something about going into the community to randomly pray for people and offer blessings. Coming back gleaming, stories of impromptu engagements, praying with people and giving them a small financial gift. They shared, laughed and ended the day with some worship led by Jason.
 
Ask one of the team members about their experience. I heard one story of Eli at Ruler Food who turns out gave his life to Jesus thee days ago. That day Eli had prayed to work and follow Jesus' way all day and to pray for someone at work. He was disappointed that as the work day came to a close, that opportunity had not presented itself. And in walks Gabe who struck up a conversation and offered to pray with him. Eli was moved beyond measure and perhaps even more encouraged to get into ministry.
 
It was a big stretch for most and life impactful for everyone, those who prayed and prayed for.  They all experienced listening for the still small voice of Jesus. Meow, Vineyard team. Well done.

(Ghostwriter Todd Zeiger)

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