August – September Newsletter, 2016 Rick McPherson
When I was a kid, I distinctly remember the, “back to school,” blues. The long summer days, warm weather and freedom were coming to an end and the monotony of school was just ahead. I knew I would miss packing my lunch, (usually a bologna sandwich, oatmeal raisin cookies and an orange), meeting my friends and riding our bikes to the swimming hole, which was actually a neighboring farmer’s stock tank; and spending the whole day perfecting our “cannon balls” off the make-shift diving board. To interrupt this bliss, with a return to school, was totally uncalled for and cruel, in my opinion. But, nonetheless, it was back to school, ready or not, like it or not.
Now, as I fast forward through the years, and they say that time goes faster as you get older; I’m looking at the summer months and the calendar is showing that Labor Day is just around the corner. I’m saying, “What? Where did the summer go? Wasn’t yesterday the 4th of July?” It seems like it was yesterday, but back to school is now on everyone’s mind.
With the change of seasons we are now focusing on the last part of the year. Recently, the TV station and tire company that sponsors the local toy drive , which we have participated in annually, contacted me to coordinate our participation in this year’s event; read, “Christmas!” We are very grateful for this provision and know that the toys which we will deliver at the Holiday Season will be a huge blessing to Native American children, again. But, between now and then we have work to do. Our work is helping on Reservations with physical and spiritual gifts. The loads of groceries, boots, household supplies, blankets, winter coats and hats are delivered and given free-of-charge as an expression of God’s love. These physical gifts enable us to build friendships and trust with Native Americans and prepare the way for us to tell them of God’s love, acceptance and forgiveness. We have the privilege of telling the wonderful story of the gift of God’s Son, Jesus, as the Savior of the world.
Let me ask you to be a part of this vital ministry. You can do it in two important ways. You can PRAY for this work. My oldest grandson gave me a black rubber wristband recently. It has the words, “PRAY FIRST,” printed on it. Since I put it on, I have been reminded of that truth multiple times. How significant is that?
You can also GIVE to this mission. Your financial gifts are greatly appreciated and needed. Will you chip in? Your gift of $100.00, $50.00, $25.00 or any amount will go a long way in helping us, as we help Native Americans. The expenses of maintaining our big truck are real. Recently we had to repair the front suspension and brakes, which cost nearly $2,000.00. You can’t go down the Interstate with bad brakes and faulty steering!
So, in the midst of your back to school plans, remember your friends at Pacific NW Outreach, Inc. and the many Native Americans that we serve. Remember, you’re a vital part of this ministry as you pray for us and send a financial gift to help fund this work. Thanks again for your help… and God bless you!
Until next time, I’m going to make myself a bologna sandwich, eat a couple of oatmeal raisin cookies and an orange.
*****