God’s Grace

Last night I was talking to my friend, Lindsey, about my upcoming trip to visit her in Panama.  During our conversation she mentioned that her digital camera had broken a short while back, and was sadly, unable to capture and share pictures from some of the things that she was doing through her non-profit, Sowing Seeds of Love.  After we hung up, I started thinking about how important it is for her to have a camera, as it is her main means for keeping current and potential supporters engaged and informed of the project happenings.

I decided to stop by Camera Exchange today to see if they could work a deal (possibly a donation, reduced price, or refurbished camera), since it was for a non-profit, but unfortunately, that was not their policy.  I went ahead and scouted out prices for point and shoot digital cameras, so that I could report back to her what the options looked like.  On the way home, I was thinking about the fundraising email that I intended to compose (for children’s books, as needed school supplies, and lawn services), when I was inspired to include a request asking if anyone had a digital camera that they would be willing to either donate or sell for a reasonable price.

This evening, I received a welcome surprise when I saw my first donation through Pay Pal — AND then I read the note that was included with the donation.  It said:  Shanna, you just tell Lindsey and all the kiddos that everyone here is behind them 🙂 Also, I’m going to be coming into town around the end of next week (2-5 of Aug) and you and I are going camera shopping 😉 so you send out an email that says your camera needs are met. Love ya, Mike

I was blown away!  I tried to express my gratitude the best I could, and at one point simply said that I was speechless.  To that, Mike replied:  “Don’t be speechless…not everyone understands how well we have it over here…I don’t have the time available to go…but you can bet your bottom that I’ll support the ones who dedicate their lives to helping others…I’m just glad I’m able to help.”

Talk about Divine timing, Mike also told me that he was getting online to relieve some stress through a little retail therapy, but saw my email first!

I must admit that I got misty-eyed thinking about how beautifully God is working through us to put a camera in the hands of Lindsey, someone who has dedicated her life to helping others.  I know that camera is going to serve greater purposes…it is going to capture the love and light that Lindsey is sharing and igniting in the women and children that she helps and then it is going to share those moments with the people who make her work possible.

My friend Mike said it best when he said, “His grace smiles upon us just when we need it”.

Lindsey taking the kids to the park…I just LOVE this picture!!!