Every time the Mission has a difficult problem to solve, God brings key people to make a difference. One of the first problems I tried to solve when I came to the Mission in 2005 was our parking lot. The gravel, mud, and dust made it challenging for those we serve, volunteers, and staff working every day.
Each time I would pursue solving the problem, the issues of runoff and storm management made a remedy impossible. We could not get a permit because paving would cause water to flood the surrounding neighbors. We were just going to have to live with a messy parking lot.
Jesus replied, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” Luke 18:27
Thousands of people over the years traversed that difficult terrain. The parking lot was a constant source of dust and mud. When it rained, the property experienced flooded puddles. Workers who tried to keep the Food Distribution Center and Rescued Treasures shop clean found the task impossible. The Mission’s guests who came for food left the campus feeling filthy. The gravel made footing treacherous for guests and volunteers. The surface made it extremely difficult for people to bring carts for groceries.
“Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20b
When you pray for Frederick Rescue Mission, you help make the impossible possible.
In 2020, Danielle Adams, the new Executive Officer of the Frederick County Building Industry Association (FCBIA), visited us and experienced the problems firsthand. When she heard about the obstacles to paving the parking lot, she decided that the FCBIA could make a difference.
Once the project was “doable,” God brought many key people to make it happen. The generosity of the Home Builders Care Foundation and Ausherman Family Foundation was another example of how God brings key people to get things done. Suddenly, much sooner than expected, what had been a dream for 15 years became a reality! Work started last October and finished in January.
What a joy it was to celebrate in January the ribbon cutting for the paved parking lot! As we continue to look to God to solve the impossible, we know He will bring key people, especially in changing lives now and for eternity. According to Steve Rubin, the President of Home Builders Care Foundation, “Perseverance pays off. You can’t do anything significant without a group of people coming together.”
“I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you.” Matthew 18:19
