There’s a risk, I suppose, in repeating a statement too often.
When people hear something over and over, it’s possible they’ll begin to tune it out. But there’s one claim I’ll continue to make.
The FREEDOM TOUR operates on a small army of volunteers.
Quite literally, we could not do this thing without the people who give generously of their time, talent, and resources to make it happen. Year after year, people return because they know and care deeply about the story of the kids at the Home of Hope.
At this point, some of our volunteers can give a better “elevator speech” than I can.
I wrote last week about Dick Foth’s remarks regarding the eternal impact of even the smallest act. I’ve been thinking since then about how Jesus smiles when someone rings a cowbell to cheer on a tired rider. It’s one of those actions you and I might take for granted, but I’m absolutely convinced Jesus uses it in some way we’ll never see or understand.
No matter how often we say, “Thank you,” volunteering at an event can feel a bit thankless. Everyone cheers as the riders cross the finish line, but there’s not much applause for the person setting up tents at 5:00 a.m. That’s the sort of Selfless Service I referenced in yesterday’s quote.
In my experience, lots of folks volunteer on their terms – when it’s fun and comfortable and involves something they enjoy doing. Our volunteers tend to ask, “What can I do?” and “What do you need?”
When you’re inexperienced, non-professional event organizers, those people are priceless.
We’re blessed beyond measure by the people who help us make this thing happen. I sincerely hope each of them understands, deep in their hearts, the eternal impact of what they do.
Small actions. Eternal consequences.