The next time you ride down to Wilmington, I highly recommend that you not take the interstate. I remember when the interstate wasn’t complete to Wilmington, and we had to take highways 50, 701, and 421 to get to Wilmington. It was a good three to three and a half hour ride. Now it is a mere two. I thought about that as I rode back with Brad on Saturday night. Now, as I look at the exit signs on the interstate, I can remember distinct places, immense places, significant places. The interstate allows us to get to the beach a lot quicker, but it also allows us to pass a lot by. As I rode on Friday, I couldn’t help but think about how many of the homes that I passed could benefit from WARM. How many people do we leave behind when we opt for the personal convenience of the interstate?

 

Service isn’t about convenience. My journey with WARM has brought me in contact with many fine servants. One of my great joys this past weekend, was to get to spend more time with our resident electrician, Dick. While I was riding my bike on Friday, Dick was working with WARM. He is the first person the WARM team asks about when we get ready to come down… he is an electrician! He drives down to Wilmington in his truck, which is his rolling office complete with every tool imaginable, and volunteers his time and talent. While many of us volunteer our time, Dick truly gives of himself – taking time that he could use on paying jobs – to serve others in the name of Christ.

 

I am always inspired by Dick’s “if we’re going to do it, let’s do it right” attitude. Yes, it was raining on Saturday, but that didn’t stop Dick from going the extra mile. When troubleshooting the problem with Elliot’s driveway lamp post, it became clear that there was a problem in the line running from the front door light. Rain or shine, the decision was easy for Dick – dig a trench and run a new line out to the lamp post.

 

Spending time with Elliot and Dick on Saturday was inspiring. The former carpenter and the electrician are kindred spirits – quick with a joke and with a tool – and both have big hearts. I was deeply touched by both men when I saw Elliot come over to Dick and ask, “If you don’t mind, the lady across the street has been having a problem with one of her switches and she hasn’t been able to get anyone to fix it. She always looks out for me, and I would like to be able to help her in return.” The humble way Elliot asked for help for his neighbor touched me. Dick’s response was swift, “No problem.” Dick realized what the extra fifteen minutes of work would mean to Elliot. He didn’t hesitate, and Elliot got to repay the kindness of a neighbor.

 

I was honored to spend time with Dick this weekend. We are the early risers on these trips, getting up well before the others. I enjoy spending the quiet time of the early morning with him getting breakfast and having our morning coffee. Time serving with Dick is a blessing.

 

This weekend wasn’t very convenient, but it was inspirational. By listening to God and taking the less convenient path, I have been blessed. I am grateful to God for the experience. I hope to stay off the interstate for a while.

 

May we all serve with kindness and generosity like my friend Dick, and have the courage to veer off of the interstate frequently as we look for opportunities to follow Christ’s example.

 

In Peace and Love,

Chris