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House Painting Produces Kingdom Partnership
Mari Briscoe is a hard-working, single mother who has tried to better her own life and the lives of her children. She has three daughters of her own (a 30-year-old and two adopted 12-year-olds), and she has also been a foster mom for several other children. Mari tries to bring positive influences, a strong work ethic and her faith into the lives of children who have not had it easy. Her hard work is paying off, but she found it extremely difficult to take care of her older home on Ruckle Street. The house needed some repairs, and the old pink paint was peeling badly.
One evening about three months ago, the 20-Something small group was offering to wash windows in the community, and they struck up a conversation with Mari's family. As Mari talked, the group felt inspired to pray about her situation. Afterward, the group felt like the Lord would have them invite the entire church to help paint Mari's home.
The church prayed and also felt this was something God called us to do. People donated labor and materials to get the project off the ground. In May and June, groups of two or three went to Mari's house to scrape off old paint and repair damaged siding. In July, the day came to prime the wood, and 18 people showed up. Most of them had never met Mari, but her story and prayers inspired them to come and help. The next Saturday, 15 people showed up, and the painting was almost completed. As Mari looked up at the people on scaffolding and ladders, she began to weep with joy. Through her tears she realized when people join together, wonderful and good things can happen in the kingdom.
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