Lockhart

I recently attended a meeting at the Harvest Youth Club on Lockhart Rd.  Gathered there was a handful of churches and two businesses from the North Alabama area.  The Lockhart Rd community is one of many communities that have been decimated from the tornadoes.  The neighborhood was made up of over a 100 homes, almost all of them were destroyed; with at least 80% being either uninsured or greatly underinsured.  Due to the fact that this community’s summer camp will start soon, this particular meeting was focused on replacing the playground that was up rooted during the storm.  There were multiple denominations present and I was encouraged to see how well everyone cooperated.  We met, discussed, heard some ideas and proposals, listened to the community leader’s vision, and then chose a ballpark figure to start with. 

A representative from one business chimed in, “We’re going to guarantee $10,000 to this project.”

A minister from a church followed, “We’ll match that, and we’ll buy the fence materials too.”

Another church, “We’ve got $3,000 so far in donations for this project.”

And another church pledged $8,000.

In 60 seconds we had more than enough to move forward.  Praise be to God! 

I’m proud that Alabama CBF churches were present and generous; and I’m proud that Christians of all flavors can, at times, work together to serve our neighbor. 

This Monday and Tuesday we meet to discuss adopting families, removing debris, and rebuilding homes.  That financial goal will not be met in 60 seconds; nonetheless I have faith that In Christ we can Be Christ to this community. 

Please continue to pray for the displaced residents of North Alabama, for our leaders, our pastors, our volunteers, and our mission. 

Rob Collins

Pastor of Students
Locust Grove Baptist Church
New Market, AL