After our home burned we were given a place that was scheduled
to be removed for highway improvement in that same town
so we might have time to make a considered decision about
our future and a new home for our family.
We both had secure jobs with the postal service where we were.
We both enjoyed helping my parents with their campground.
We chose to move near the campground where living was less expensive;
Sid would get on with the post office down there and I could care for our family.
Sid would be away from the places and people of his old lifestyle;
We could start anew, our family centered in Christ.
He could be the sole provider and I could be the homemaker,
Fulfilling the desires of both our hearts and giving our children a better home.
At least that was our plan. . . . . . in our prayers about it God hadn't said "No"
We found a house large enough for our family and moved south.
About a mile from the campground and 1/2 that from the school.
Sid found no welcome at the local postal facilities,
No problem, we had enough insurance to keep us going.
We dove right into the work at the campgrounds and ministry.
Mom, Dad and we eight became common sight at local meetings.
Sid was healed and we knew it but employers were less convinced.
The money ran out and our children received free lunches at school.
Sid and I fasted unless opportunity arose for us to cook for
something at camp or to help someone across the lunch hour.
Seemed my folks needed a LOT of help as did church members.
We were feed well enough and trusted God for a breakthrough.
Then came Thanksgiving break . . no school . . no free lunches
I told the children to set the table as though we had plenty.
They complained; their dad replied, "Mind your mother."
And so the table was set and we took our regular places.
Sid ordered me, "You're the one believing you do the praying."
"Father God, Your Word tells us you will supply all our needs
according to your riches in glory. Today we need nourishment.
I believe You will nourish our bodies even though we have no food.
Thank you, Father, for this nourishment." and everyone said "Amen"
There was a knock on our door as soon as we had prayed.
It was my uncle and family from 50 miles away.
They said as we were preparing for thanksgiving we decided
to share the day with your family, do you mind?
The children all gladly helped carry in the food they had prepared.
I sat more places at the table, before we were done my brothers
family arrived with the same sort of greeting and there was more.
while food was carried in and more places set my parents arrived with more.
I asked my mom if she was behind all of this, she said "Not at all,
We are each following the leading of the Lord." that settled that.
We all found places to eat and feasted on His bounty together.
Then my sister-in-law pulled out a little angel and handed it to me.
She said, "The Lord wants you to know He will never leave you
nor forsake you. As is your faith so shall He meet your every need."
Tears of joy cascaded down my cheeks and praises rose from everyone.
The leftovers from that meal were finally consumed by our family on Christmas day.
Not one thing spoiled or was wasted! Another part to be recognized
could only be so by the hand of God as was the manna in the dessert.
I can truly say my family has never gone hungry or begged for bread.
Leola Boyd © 16 November 2011
pictures from Photo Bucket
photo and graphics Leola Boyd
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