My parents moved to Alabama. Two months ago my dad volunteered for a one-week missionary & construction trip serving an area devastated by last spring's overactive tornado season. By the time he returned home, the Lord had spoken to his heart and he knew he was being called to dedicate more time to the work and the people in the hills of Alabama. Everything else just fell into place...
Within weeks the finances to cover obligations at home had wondrously appeared, as well as the beginnings of what they would need to move from Iowa to Alabama and modestly survive while they are there. Circumstances at my mother's job had been building towards an opportunity for long-term leave for quite awhile and made sense completely as soon as this opportunity was presented to her. And another family member seeking a new beginning in her own life was right there to take over the day-to-day responsibilities my parent's would be leaving behind for an undetermined amount of time.
That's how they got to Alabama. Here is what they are doing:
Working directly with the organization Carpenter's House and the program
Mercy Flows, my parent's find themselves working with volunteer labor and donated resources in an effort to help rebuild a rural area in northeastern Alabama devastated by multiple tornadoes during a one-week time period this last April. My father's background as a construction foreman and owner of a small construction company have helped him seamlessly step into his new role coordinating the 10+ projects that Mercy Flows currently has in varying stages of the re-building process. Along with getting her hands dirty right next to his, my mom has found her own niche getting to know the homeowners and community members personally by learning their histories, hearing their tornado-related experiences, and sharing encouraging moments of prayer with them and their families. Together, they've left a house behind to live in a small camper trailer and serve wherever they are needed.
It's been an interesting few months for my family as we get used to the decision my parent's have made. Even though I moved far away from home more than 10 years ago, part of me feels sad and alone knowing they are not there. Some of my sisters were confused at the idea that they would just drop everything and leave; others didn't take it seriously until my parents had packed up and driven away. Yet, in the first three updates we've received on the work getting done in my mom and dad's new home, it is impossible to deny that the Lord has important work for them to do there.
I hope you will
visit my parent's website and learn more about the area in Alabama which they are working, more about the work that is being done, and opportunities for you and the people you know to share your support by getting involved. Add the
link for their blog to your reader. And if it moves you, remember them, the people of Alabama, and the rest of my family in your prayers.
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