restoring our biblical and constitutional foundations

                

Rejoice!

 David Alan Black 

 “Cups of cold water/Giv’n in Jesus’ name/Cups of cold water/Are never giv’n in vain/Someday in heaven/When we meet the Lord/Each deed of kindness/Will reap a rich reward.”

God’s ultimate purpose in all suffering is joy. The greater the peril, the greater the song of deliverance. The angels in heaven sing more joyfully over one sinner who has come to repentance than over ninety-nine who need no repentance. Has a woman lost a coin and then found it? She will call all her neighbors so that they can rejoice with her. Has a prodigal returned to his father? The household kills the fatted calf and celebrates.

It is Christ who makes all this possible (Col 1:24). As we participate in His work on earth – sharing His love and His Gospel, giving cups of cold water in His name to those in need – we are blessed with joy inexpressible. As Paul wrote, “But if my lifeblood is to crown that sacrifice which is the offering up of your faith, I am glad of it, and I share my gladness with you all. Rejoice, no less than I, and let us share our joy!” (Phil. 2:17-18).

I want to thank everyone who shared our joy in helping Azanou, a 14-year old Ethiopian in need of a cornea transplant. By adding your “cups of water” to ours, the blessing has only been multiplied!

The largest gift sent was $100.00. The smallest was a check for $1.92. All were received in the spirit in which they were given. Here are the thoughts that accompanied your contributions:

Dear Dave and Becky Lynn,

I was very touched with Azanou’s story. Our family will be praying for him. Here is our contribution for his surgery. May the Lord continue to bless all of you.

For Azanou. We are praying for you ALL!

Dave,

Sorry it can’t be more but I’m living on just my SS right now. I hope you have a tremendous amount of support for the lad. I’m sure our Lord will provide.

Best to you in your endeavors helping Azanou. Will continue watching on “Buried Treasure” for updates on his progress.

We heard about Azanou on Carmon’s Buried Treasure Website. We are praying for all of you. God bless.

Dear Mr. and Mrs. David Black,

Please accept this money order for $50 for your efforts to care for Azanou. I became aware of Azanou and your kind efforts to help him through Carmon Friedrich’s site, Buriedtreasurebooks.com. My thoughts are prayers are with you and Azanou.

Dave and Becky Lynn,

Thanks for all you’re doing for Azanou! It is a joy for us to be able to a part of it!

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Black,

Thank you so much for the wonderful resources that you sent to us. We appreciate your kind generosity. We also thank you so much for your example and the encouragement we receive from your website. You have been a blessing to our family.

Dave and Becky Lynn,

It’s only $20.00, but it’s what we can do for now. Sent with love for Azanou!

This is for Azanou.

David and Becky Lynn,

Here is the money that we pledged toward Azanou. Enclosed also is a card – if you send him a letter could you include it – my daughter made it. Thank you for your example.

Dear David & Becky Lynn,

Thank you for the privilege of participating with you in showing the love of Christ to Azanou.

And so we rejoice. Now let us share our joy together!

March 6, 2005

David Alan Black is the editor of www.daveblackonline.com. If you would like to know more about becoming a follower of King Jesus, please feel free to write Dave.

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