Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Quick Trip...Eternal Impact

Bob, Greg, and Jason piled into Patrick's truck for the trek to Slidell, LA and the hope to help those in need. The trip started off with a bang - the air conditioning went out in Patrick's truck! Not too bad but it was July in Texas and Louisiana. On our trip down, we picked the brain of Greg, who had previously been to Chalmette.

Upon our arrival in Slidell, we checked into our rooms and met to discuss logistics. There were approximately 15 guys, ranging in age from 14 to those a little older! All of us were looking forward to the adventure to come.

The first morning we all met at the church in Chalmette. We were greeted by Pastor Derek and team, who divided up the teams to best accomplish as much work as possible. I was lucky enough to be put on a crew to work on the house of Dave and Amy Roberts, a young couple trying to rebuild their home and their lives.

On the drive to the Roberts' home the first thing apparent was the absolute devastation that Hurricane Katrina left almost 3 years ago. MANY homes were completely gone, with nothing but the slabs left. There were homes that were standing but barely. And there were also homes rebuilt. Quite the strange mix.

As we pulled up to the Roberts' home site, we were greeted by the site of a trailer in the front yard. Dave, Amy, and their young son had been living in a 500 sq. ft. trailer for 8 months. This was not a FEMA trailer, but one that Dave had purchased. It was not a great place. Their home was beginning to take shape and hopefully we were going to help make a dent. The big part of what we were going to do was help put the siding on their home. Over the 2 1/2 days, we did exactly that. With absolutely no experience with Hardy board, we put siding on 3 sides of the Roberts' home. Also, with much help from the younger guys, we got all of the old electric boxes pulled out and new wires strung for the electrician to come in and connect.

Each day, our work was rewarded with food! And what food is was!!! Brother Ray, one of the church leaders was designated the Chief Chef! Amazing is the only word to use. BBQ, crabs, shrimp - AMAZING! We were tired after working but never too tired to eat!

All of us attended the church service Sunday morning at World Prayer Tabernacle South. Prior to the service, we attended a private service of the church leadership. It was an amazing time together, to see the faith of those still there even after everything that happened to them. I had
tears in my eyes the entire time. I found a great friend as well. The first day, the young baby son of the youth pastor and his wife (Tim and Melanie) starting fussing a bit. I went over to him in his chair and started talking to him. His name was Micah and I picked him up. Immediately, he started smiling and playing with me. What a joy that little boy was! So during the private service, Pastor Derek asked if anyone wanted to speak. Of course, being shy and introverted as I am, I stood up. I picked Micah up and went up front. This is what I said:

"I was wondering, after all that happened to all of you, why would anyone want to stay here. Maybe you would think about relocating somewhere else and start over. But I see why you want to stay. This is your home. And we from ACF are honored to be a small part in helping you stay home." Of course, I was crying!

At the end of the private service, all of the ACF'ers were asked to come forward and all of the WPT leaders placed their hands on us and prayed. Before we left, I was told to watch and listen for God moments. Well, there it was! Those 20-30 voices sounded like the voices of thousands! It sent chills up my back and I knew God was there with us!

The second God moment came when Patrick and I had a great honor. The last evening we were all there we decided to take a collection from the guys to purchase gift cards from Home Depot for Dave and Amy. They were making multiple trips each day to Home Depot for supplies. Patrick and I went over to their home and presented them the gift cards. At that moment, I saw Dave's face just soften. He realized that God was providing for him and his family. Dave had just started going back to church and he realized that a strong man can also follow God and do His bidding! We hugged them and told them we loved them and God loved them.

Our trip back went quick but we cannot wait to go back. We all must keep our brothers and sisters in Chalmette in our prayers. Thank you to ACF for the opportunity to serve.

By Bob Du Charme

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