I have been running crazy since the storms hit on Wednesday, April 27. We, as a congregation, have worked hard to do what we could to help. We’ve worked with chainsaws and we’ve worked in kitchens. We’ve gone to those in need and the needy have come to us. We’ve tried to support our members and support our community. We’ve tried to address physical needs and spiritual needs, encouraging brethren and reaching out to those outside the church. We’ve seen hard work from our very young and from our older members. For what we’ve been able to do and for what we can do, I am thankful.
A fixture in my life since that day in late April has been a cell phone stuck to my right ear. For a short period of time that first weekend, my cell phone was lost. While I felt very lost without it, I must admit there was a type of “relief” not hearing it ring. But, in a box that was being delivered, my phone was found, and the “chaotic” pace continued. I wish I had kept up from the beginning with every state that made a call to me. It has been quite an experience. The common denominator has been they call wanting to help. What can we do? What do you need? The amounts have not been the same but the genuine interest from brethren has been of such unity that I’m reminded of the words of the song, “Blessed Be the Tie that Binds.”
I really cannot give you a number of people I do not know that I’ve spoken with in the last month. It should have hit me long before now, but I really had my “aha” moment as I sat at my desk on Monday, Nay 23. I had just gotten off the phone with a man named Jack Wall. Jack is an elder of the church in Evant, Texas. He is a county commissioner in that area and seems to be a very personable man. After we spoke, it really hit me. What kind of people have I been talking to? What kind of Christian people have been on the “other side of the phone?” These are people that I do not know, could not pick out of a police line-up and, in many cases, have never been to the places they call home. Yet, somehow, I have a very special bond with them. I anticipate being with them in that place called Heaven. I understand the beautiful description of the first century church. They had “all things common.” It does not mean they all liked Andy Griffith, okra and lemonade. It does mean in that deep part of your life and soul that means absolutely the most, they shared. It is a bond that is not limited to this life. It is a shared relationship that will go with us into eternity.
To my brethren that have been on the “other side of the phone,” I am thankful that with you, I have “all things common” and I do look forward to meeting you some day!
~ Clark Sims
