The LON Family Extreme Home Makeover

[ Chapter One • Chapter Two • Chapter Three • Photo Gallery • Daily Diary • Hebrews 11: Hall of Fame • Video]

DAILY DIARY

 [ Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Welcoming Home Celebration ]

Day 1 [View Images]

Dear Boyz, 

Today was an overwhelming God-day. I knew we were in for an adventure when 12 boyz had already shown at by 7:30am. The construction guys looked at the drawings and talked about 'guy-construction-drawings' stuff and when that had gone on long enough I had everyone circle up and we prayed. We thanked God for giving us the gift of serving Him by serving the Lon Family. Then with a spring to our step and a song in our hearts we got down to business. Hammers, saws, laughter, conversations  - it was the Kingdom of God at it's finest. By the days end at least 50-60 people had come to help. Bernie Thompson came up to me and said – “this feels like the roller coast ride at Six Flags!” I knew exactly what he meant. The house was so full of people I couldn't tell if I was running into angels or men - but of course there really is no difference - both were about their Father's business. 

I had a chance to talk with Tony and Maureen for a little while this morning. What an awesome couple. They have carried a very heavy load for a very long time and they are some of the most grateful people I've ever meet. Patrick and Anthony, their two other sons enjoyed the donuts and were very excited about the happenings. 

Today one Krew started building the floor for the kitchette and new laundry room, another krew moved the bedroom door, another started work on the wall separating the bedroom from the bathroom, the 5 young men from the Linganore High School football team started work on the backyard under the supervision of Cary Scates and Don (West Virginia) Freitag. The paint Krew got to work on the 2nd floor and had already painted the entire ceiling and were working on doing the trim work on the dining room, living room, kitchen, and hall way.  The fire alarm project was underway, and many other things were going on in every corner of the house. I'll never forget the two guys in the hall bathroom - one was using the toilet seat as a seat and writing on a pad of paper some material list and plans for future days. Hilarious!! 

The lunch was great - thank you Michelle Mallick. Lori Record brought her boyz - Jordan and Luke and they each gave me a baggie with a few dollars and change because they wanted Christian to have all their piggie bank money. They stayed and helped pick up some sticks because Lori wanted them to experience the joy of serving.  

Stay tuned for a daily diary and pictures on how the project is going 

Update from Bob McIntyre (God’s camera guy!) 

First and foremost: BITTER COLD! Five degrees and instead of dampening spirits it added to the sense of community. Amazing turnout with what had to be minimum sixty men and women there to help. After meeting Maureen and Tony Lon I am especially thankful that I am a part of this God story. I was overwhelmed with the amount of activity and it wasn't even my house. For them to open up their home to us and be so trusting, thankful and gracious is a testament to them. This story has only begun, but the change already in the house after two days is impressive. What makes all this even better is hearing how God has been in this project from the beginning, providing in ways only He can.

Day 2 [View Images]

Dear Boyz, 

I arrived at the job site around 10:30am. Bernie came running up to me and asked if I knew who was bringing the food for lunch. He explained that we had asked for enough food for 8-10 men and there were currently 30+ men working in the house. Bernie was loving life - It was so cool! He told me “It is going to be REALLY hard to go back to work tomorrow!” I know exactly what he means – he is in the middle of God’s pleasure for his life on that job site. Anyway, I was trying to find Christies phone number when she called me and asked how many people were at the house – God’s timing for sure! I told her 30 and she said, “That’s great! I’ll be there in an hour.” There was plenty for everyone and God showed Himself again in the little detail. 

Brandon, Tom Phillips grandson came and helped all day. He carried load after load out to the UHAUL truck. On the way home Tom said Brandon kept talking about what he had done and how much fun he had. Then he asked Tom if he could come back tomorrow. As I was leaving Victor Davis brought his two boys to do some work. The stories go on and on………… 

By end of day tomorrow all the framing, drywall and rough in work will be done. We all need to remember it isn’t necessarily the amount of work each of us does – it is that we all have a chance to spend some time in God’s vineyard experiencing His pleasure. Will you grab a piece of it tomorrow? 

We still need almost all the furniture on the list. Since we’ve already thrown away all the old, broken furniture we are very curious to see what God has in mind. Do you have any contacts at furniture stores or do you know someone who has some awesome stuff they might want to give to the Lon’s? Please email Renae at campbell0810@verizon.net 

If anyone has a contact with any local Germantown hotel/motel let me know. Tomorrow is “D” day for finding the place for them for the rest of the week. If you have a possibility – give me a call as soon as you can. (240)345-8745. 

For those of you bringing the dinner meals – first of all – THANKS!!!  Once we have the hotel I’ll let you know so you can bring the Lon’s their meal after bringing the Krew theirs. When you bring the food you will need to bring – food, drinks, and paper products. We have a door that we are using as the table. 

Starting tomorrow find the ongoing story of the EXTREME Home Makeover on our web page – www.waterboyz.org – go there to see some pictures from day 2.  

Here is a report from Co-Project Manager Greg Lueck: 

The day was amazing!  We were planning on 6 people and 30 people showed up representing expertise in framing, plumbing, electric, painting, and general help.  Most everyone starting at 7 am.  There were so many professional construction trucks parked along the road that you had to wonder what was going on.  The second shift arrived in the afternoon and many stayed until 8:30 pm.  Everyone was busy and focused and the progress is beyond description.  We remain on target with our time line and God continues to demonstrate how faith can move mountains (but we still have to mix and pour the 30 bags of concrete ourselves). 

We shifted the process by securing a 24 foot U-haul truck for a few days and moving the belongings of the entire house into the truck.  The packing team packed and moved most everything in 8 hours!  We have two rooms left and could use some help as we need everything out of the house ASAP tomorrow to continue with our renovations plans.  We are moving into the drywall hanging and taping stage tomorrow, if anyone wants a piece of this, let me know.  We are preparing the floors for tiling in a few areas (Wednesday for tiling).  The plan remains aggressive, but God has paved the way so far.  Thank you God for moving mountains.... 

Greg

 Report from Camera-man Bob! 

Once again God showed us that when He is in it all we need to do is be awed and let Him work through us. Again a weather challenged day - snow fell most of the late morning and early afternoon. When I got there so much had already been done and it was only 10:30 in the morning. So many good men have answered this call. Under the leadership of Greg and Bernie, things went very smoothly. When I left, most of the upstairs was completely empty (including the rugs stripped off). The plumbing is nearly done, and Greg was having fun mixing concrete and filling in the hole. This is truly a project you can't blink with or else you miss too much.

Day 3 [View Images]

Dear Boyz, 

God has provided again! We have a tile company committed to coming Wednesday to tile the bathroom. Also, the Holiday Inn at the corner of Rt 355 and Montgomery Village Ave has given us a very significant discount so the family has moved in and will staying there until Sunday. If you have supported this project with financial help, time, materials, laundry, or meals – set aside Sunday afternoon at 2:30pm to meet the Lon family at their home for a welcome home celebration event! Dress warm, bring your family, and bring your best praise voice. This will be an event for the ages! (Eternity) 

Today Jim Shields was on the phone trying to figure out who might be able to come and take the trash trailer to the dump when David Kull drove up. David had finished work a little early (no coincidence) and had a thought (Holy Spirit) that maybe he was needed at the project. He hitched the trash trailer up and went to the dump. When he got there he told the attendant about our project and the man said, “We let charitable organizations dump for free – here is the paperwork – NO CHARGE!” God is showing Himself in dozens of small, medium, and large ways. God is IN THE HOUSE!!! 

We are on THE faith walk of our lives! In some ways it feels like we are back at the original Friday lunch and looking at our resources and at the need and having to decide – is God in this and are His pockets deep enough for even this. Of course the answer is YES!  Because the project has expanded from making the first floor handicap accessible to include the entire house our financial needs have grown accordingly. We will need several thousand dollars more to fully fund this project. God will provide!! Does part of His plan include you? 

Next – we have reached ‘D’ day for our furniture list. If you have gently used furniture or would like to ‘adopt’ one or more pieces of this list – let me know. Each item will cost approximately $200.00. Let me know which piece you want to ‘own’ and I’ll make sure it is yours. First come – first serve!  

FURNITURE LIST

Downstairs Kitchenette: 

Downstairs Bedroom:

• Bed for Christian – must be sturdy with railings  Dinette & chair(s)
• Mattress & Box spring
• Bunk Beds for Anthony & Patrick
• Mattresses & box springs
• Two tall dressers 

Downstairs Family Room:

• Couch
• Coffee table
• Lamp

Master Bedroom:

• Mattress & Box Spring

Dining Room:

• Dining room table with chairs

  Living Room:

• Couch
• Love Seat
• End tables
• Coffee table
• Small Computer desk

Upstairs Girls bedrooms:

• Twin Bed – Teen girl                                                 
• Mattress & box spring – Teen girl                              
• Dresser – teen girl                                                      
• Desk – teen girl                                                           
• Twin Bed – college girl                                  
• Mattress & box spring – college girl
• Dresser – college girl
• Desk – college girl

 On the scene report from co-project leader Greg Lueck:

 Hi Paul, 

What a day!  In a normal build out, there is a proper sequence toward completion.  When you compress everything in a few days work, everyone is on top of each other trying their best to move forward.  I am amazed how the team is able to push through the challenges as they unfold.  This team just amplifies why we are investing at this level of dedication.  It is for a bigger purpose, much of which is beyond our ability to fully understand.  It is so clear that God is leading this journey and his team of servants is following his direction. 

Today we had about 30 people show up in two shifts (we will continue on a two shift status until completion).  Most of the framing is complete and a good portion of the drywall is hung and taped.  The tub has been moved into position and framed.  The plumbing is complete and ready for the final connections on Friday.  The electrical is moving forward and near completion.  The second shift is staying late tonight to prepare the bathroom for the tiling team tomorrow.  A fantastic lunch and dinner was cooked for us.  The Lon’s are staying at a hotel until Sunday (dinner is brought to their hotel room each night as well).  They wanted to come over for a few items, but we were able to keep them in suspense by meeting them away from the house.  How many of you would turn over your house to a complete set of strangers for a week?  I cannot wait for the neighbors to have the opportunity to share their part of the story as they see the traffic of people scurrying about the house all day and into the night.  You know they have to be wondering what is happening...   

We continue to have significant needs.  Please keep our efforts in your prayer as we still have a God sized mountain ahead of us... 

The first shift is starting tomorrow at 6 am.  Coffee and doughnuts are waiting... 

Greg  

Day 4 [View Images]

Dear Boyz,

I now understand why they call Wednesday “hump day” – it has been a day………

First on the positive side – 20+ men showed up at the house today and worked hard all day. MUCH was accomplished. Everyone on site knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that they are working directly for God. Today I received a call from the Germantown Gazette reporter and she will be coming tomorrow with a photographer to capture the story. Our desire is to use our ‘good deeds’ to glorify Jesus who is THE ultimate good deed!

I called the local Bob Evans and spoke with the manager – William. This is the same Bob Evan’s that two 10MEN Tables use to have our weekly meetings at. I asked William if he would consider hosting the Lon family for a breakfast either Saturday or Sunday. His response was to say he was going to grab both. How cool is that? Then I called the local Carrabba’s and after talking with the kitchen manager Tim about the project he offered to host the family for lunch on Sunday. We will pick them up at the Marriott in a limousine – one of our guys owns one – and we will drive them to their special lunch. Then at 2:30pm we will deliver them to their house for a welcome home celebration. Be sure to make plans to be there with us.

This morning as I was getting the furniture list ready I heard my daughter in the bathroom throwing up. I knew that my day was going to be changed – big time. I settled down in my office and prayed that God would take my day and use it. Soon after sending out the email about the furniture needs my email box began to buzz with people offering different pieces. Then about mid-day today we realized that the company who had offered to help us tile the bathroom wasn’t going to make it. It was one small bump in the road after another all day. We never lost sight of the prize – living in the joy of knowing that God is going to provide! - but it has been a battle all day long.

Thursday our plans are taping, mudding, dry walling, tiling, and sanding the floor on the 2nd floor. Friday will be painting and carpet – Saturday move in day – cleaning – window treatments – organizing the kitchen. We need your prayers – many things have to happen from a timing standpoint – so pray!

Here are the list of remaining needs:

1. Many WOW furniture items (see list) – send me a picture if you have something we could use
2. Donations – we are $3,000 away from our goal

When all this comes together – we will be praising only HIM!

Paul

FURNITURE LIST:
(crossed out items are those we now have)

Downstairs Kitchenette: 

• Dinette & chair(s)

Downstairs Bedroom:

• Bed for Christian – must be sturdy with railings
• Mattress & Box spring
• Bunk Beds for Anthony & Patrick
• Mattresses & box springs
• Two tall dressers 

Downstairs Family Room:

• Couch
• Coffee table
• Lamp

Master Bedroom:

• Mattress & Box Spring

Dining Room:

• Dining room table with chairs

  Living Room:

• Couch
• Love Seat
• End tables
• Coffee table
• Small Computer desk

Upstairs Girls bedrooms:

• Twin Bed – Teen girl                                                 
• Mattress & box spring – Teen girl                              
• Dresser – teen girl                                                      
• Desk – teen girl                                                           
• Twin Bed – college girl                                  
• Mattress & box spring – college girl
• Dresser – college girl
• Desk – college girl

 On the scene report from co-project leader Greg Lueck:

A few of us pulled another very late night to keep the project on target from a time perspective. We were cut short at 11:30 pm when a neighbor asked us to stop working as our air guns were keeping everyone awake. I apologized and then felt bad as I never thought that the sound from inside the house would bother anyone (the last thing we wanted to do). We had to clean up and will begin again early tomorrow morning. Timing continues to be tight and God continues to provide additional opportunities to increase the scope of the project. Just as we begin to wonder if we can finish our list, God just adds a couple more opportunities to serve and everyone is responding with enthusiasm and recognition of who we honoring. It is exciting to realize that there is not one room in the house that has not been addressed from floor to ceiling!

 We continue to need help in all areas throughout the day. One big prayer request is asking for fast drying time... This may sound funny, but most everything that we are doing now is dependent on drying time, from mudding walls, painting, tile and grout, staining and sealing and on and on.

 Every day has been full of excitement and I look forward to tomorrow...

 Greg

Hi EXTREME Team:

I have always wondered how the Holy Spirit and wires fall into place but after Saturday, my soul has been electrified. Paul asked me to scope out the house on Saturday. Well, in my "school" clothes, I came by and said wow! Ah- Paul, you need a lot more than scoping right now. So I tried to look at the plans compared to what was really needed and received some sort of plan. We got the paint out of my good shirt- thanks to Victor and continued to work. I didn't leave until about 8 but got pretty far. The the other thing I can't talk about for too long is how we were fed. I just start crying which prevents me from talking about it. To see the women come in and out, day after day, just blew me away. Now I just read that they provide dinner for the Lon's during the week as well. What a blast of emotions I have to deal with when I see others bless others. I can't thank God enough to let me be around these people (my friends) Too many times in the past I let valuable things slide between my fingers but you all have deposited such strength and proper perspective into my life that I have homework to do in correcting my "flight" plans and have already been making changes already. Thank you so much for letting me into your circles and as time passes, more will be included also. Praise God, Prasie God, Praise God! May He complete the work in us unto the day of redemption.

Blessings!
Chris

Day 5 [View Images]

Dear Boyz & Girlz (EVERYONE has been AWESOME!!)

Today was a ‘break-through’ day! Eric Closs and I ran into each other at the Lon home this morning and Eric told me he had contacted some friends to pray against the attacks and schemes of the enemy yesterday – well……………. PRAYER WORKS! In order for the Lon Family to move back in on Sunday afternoon (2:30pm – If you’ve had a part in this – BE THERE!) three things needed to happen by the end of Day Five 1) The bathroom tile needed to be done – 95% completed 2) the upstairs floor had to have two coats of varnish – by early Friday morning this will be done, and 3) the drywall finishing had to be done (in other words the downstairs had to be ready to paint) – it isn’t all done but enough was so we can still finish and paint in time. Bernie, Greg, Daniel, Paula, Victor, Big Jim, the list goes on and on are working monstrous hours. There is still LOTS to be done, and it will still be VERY much a miracle but at least from a timing standpoint it could actually happen. That reminds me a one of my favorite verses “This project is being held in jars of clay so that HIS all surpassing glory WILL be revealed – Paul paraphrase”

Because of your generosity in both donations and offers of WOW furniture, Renae Campbell (Bernie Thompson’s daughter) has assured me we will have a houseful of furniture. Can you believe it? In three days we have enough furniture to fill a house. Unbelievable! This reminds me of the apostle Paul saying that the early church was a church of hilarious givers!

When we did the EXTREME Makeover for Ruth Marino my daughter prepared a framed picture of a great bible verse (Rev 21:5) and every name of every person who helped. I sat down this morning and started building a list (HEBREWS 11 – Names in the Hall of Fame!)– if you can’t find your name on this list – or see someone who you know was part of this project – PLEASE SEND ME THEIR NAME! This isn’t about giving anyone ‘props’ – it is about adding value to the Lon Family. Every time they see this list they will know just how much we love them and how much more God loves them. By the way – anyone want to take a shot at making this for presentation on Sunday?

Tom Phillips is dying of cancer, maybe a few weeks, maybe much longer (I pray), he brought his grandson Brandon to help on Monday. When the day was over Brandon asked his granddad if they could come back the next day. After Tuesday he asked if they could come back again on Wednesday, so they did. I saw Brandon Wednesday afternoon and he said, “Mr. Paul – ANY TIME you have these projects again – CALL ME!!! I want to help – it was so fun!” I looked at Tommy and said, “You’ve poured legacy into your grandson over these last few days!” He simply nodded YES – to overcome to speak. It was a taste of every second of what eternity with God will feel like!

Tomorrow is Friday but Sunday is coming!!

 Day 5 report from Co-Project Leader Greg Lueck:

 We knew that today was going to be a huge stretch day and we almost made it. The progress today was incredible! We spent most of our efforts on preparing the walls for painting and preparing the new flooring. The tile work is 95% complete and is awesome. We are at the stage where progress results in dramatic visual changes. We thought we had until 11 pm to be productive from a noise management perspective, but learned the we need to keep it very quiet starting at 9 (I have to give officer Brian a poke on that miss information - he and I picked up the doors together today or should I say "he" picked up the doors and I held the door open). We will get it right tomorrow....!!!

 Maureen's sister and family came out today as they wanted to see all the activity first hand. We gave everyone a quick tour and hopefully managed to keep all the paint and drywall compound off on their clothes. Tony called and asked if he could do anything to help and I reminded him that all of this is a gift from God, including spending a fun time with the kids at the Holiday Inn. I am sure they are VERY curious and Maureen if you are reading this..., Sunday at 2:30 is not much longer.

 Keep your eyes on the Gazette as they spent a long time taking pictures and interviewing the team this morning. Paul is following up with other news media and we have some coverage on Sunday as well.

 We are nearing the point where it becomes more clear that the end is in sight. For me, it is the transition of mixed feelings as the team spirit that has been generated with the intensity of this project will, at some point, become treasured memories. When you work this close with a team of dedicated people for long days crammed full of stretch goals, friendships bond in a way that is difficult to describe. We are all taking the hill for Jesus and this was a big one... Thank you God for standing beside us throughout this journey.

 So the final stretch is beginning. It is time to sprint and in some cases improvise. We have many significant challenges that we need to conquer. We still need your help in many areas. Thank you for your prayers and keep them going as all of this is a living example of what can happen when you are responsive to His direction.

 It is late and the few pictures that I took will have to wait as we are starting early again and early is not far from now..., anyone want more coffee?

 Greg

Day 6 [View Images]

Dear Family:

An unbelievable amount of work was done today! All the walls on the 1st floor (Christian’s floor) are prepped, primed, and painted! The work on the 2nd floor is all done except for the floor in the hall bathroom and the last coat of sealing on the floor. Tomorrow morning the Sparkle Krew goes in and will do the window treatments, shower curtains, bathroom cleaning, and they will make the place shine! There is MUCH to be done still. So much that unless there is a miracle……….. but of course we’ve been saying that now for 6 days.

Today I took one of my guys to court in Frederick. As we were waiting for his case to be heard I approached his lawyer about the project (I know the guy pretty well). After hearing the story he told me to call him on Monday and he will write a check. Tom Skinner was selling a car to a customer today (PRAISE GOD FOR THAT!!). While they were waiting for the paperwork Tom told him the story. The man reached in his pocket and pulled out $40 and handed it to Tom and said, “This is for the project.” Debbie Catron was at a story shopping for one of the items for the Sparkle Krew. She found the right thing but thought it was too much money. She found the manager, explained why she was buying it and got a 75% discount. The stories go on and on!!! We needed a part at the last minute in Capital Heights – Greg called Eric Rice and he stopped by on the way home from Annapolis and picked it up saving hours from someone else’ day. Thank you Eric & Diane!

Today Adam worked with us all day – from 8am until 5pm. He had to perform some community service and someone contacted us about him working with us today. He meet Big Jim, Ron Paulin, and several other Waterboyz. Each man he talked to invited him to a 10MAN table. By the time he and I spent some time together he was totally amazed at who we are and the passion we have for serving the Lon’s and for each other. Renae Campbell who is heading up the Furniture project went to Gladhill Furniture in Middletown. Before she left the owner of the store had given her a brand new Dining room table and chairs, a china cupboard, two coffee tables, a chair for the family room, and an end table. BEAUTIFUL STUFF!!

Come and celebrate with us on Sunday afternoon at 2:30pm. It is shaping up as a grand day indeed!

GOD IS IN THE HOUSE!!!!!

Day 6 report from Co-Project Leader Greg Lueck:

Greg is currently very tired and probably still working

Kingdom Perspective from Jeannie Foss:

As I was reading the updates on our extreme home makeover I couldn’t help but be excited about all that was happening. I started thinking of what Bob McIntyre said about keeping up on a minute by minute basis because things are changing so fast. Boy that is almost an understatement. Every time the phone rang, something was changing.

I started wondering what the Lon family will think and feel on Sunday when they see their new home. It’s not a mansion, but it will feel like one to them. I’m sure for days they will walk on tip toes and wake up each morning wondering if it was all a dream. I’m not sure who is more excited for Sunday to happen. Them or us. I suspect it would be impossible to answer that question. It may even be us – because we know what’s coming and they don’t. They aren’t even imagining what we have planned for them. At this point they don’t even know how excited they should be!

I couldn’t help but wonder if this isn’t a little bit of a parallel to the way Jesus feels. We’re down here in our temporary home and He’s up there preparing a place for us. He’s all excited because He knows what’s in store for us as He puts the finishing touches on everything. Can you imagine how disappointed we’d be on Sunday if the Lon’s said “Can’t we stay here longer? We like living in a hotel away from home.” We’d do everything we could to get them to want to see what was in store for them. “But” we’d say, “We’ve worked so hard to make something wonderful for you. It’s so much better than this. We’ve custom made a home for your needs. Your life will be so much better now. Please come with us.”

Yet, isn’t that exactly what we’re guilty of in our relationship with God? When we see the news and hear talk of recession vs. depression and we beg God to protect us from what’s happening in the world around us, aren’t we asking to stay in the hotel? God has prepared us a permanent home in heaven - beyond anything we could think or imagine -and we sit here on earth -way too often perfectly content to stay in our temporary home; begging Him not to make us leave, telling Him all the reasons why we like where we are. All the ways we’ve adjusted to making this our home.

Take a moment to ask yourself if you are more excited about going home to heaven or if you’re more excited to see the Lon’s see their new home on Sunday. If your honest, gut reaction is that you’re more excited for Sunday, then take time to invest in your relationship with God. Get to know Him so well that you are excited to go home where He is waiting to show you the home He’s prepared for you. Take a few minutes each day to remember that this earth isn’t home. Remember where your real home is.

On Sunday, as the Lon family walks up to their new home, remind your spirit that this time it’s their turn, but soon it will be yours. Sometime in the near future you will be welcomed to your heavenly home with the angels and heavenly hosts celebrating your arrival. Sunday is just a small foretaste of what it will be like when we’re welcomed to our heavenly home. Take that moment and treasure it in your heart. Shed a tear of excitement and rededication to the Lord. It’s appropriate. That’s what this is all about. Like Paul and Tony Campalo said so well, it’s Friday, but Sundays coming…for all of us!

Day 7 [View Images]

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

January 9th I sat down with Bernie Thompson and Greg Lueck our Co-Project Leaders to talk about whether God was calling us to do this project, and only then to talk about what it would cost. After talking about Christian, Maureen, Tony and the kids about the challenges they face everyday we agreed it was a worthwhile project. Then we each talked about how in individual prayer we felt like God was clearly calling us to Love.

Then Bernie handed me the estimate sheet, $20,000.00. As he handed it to me he said, “You prayed about this right?” When I saw the number my first thought was “CRAP! We only have $2,000.00 in the bank!” Right behind that thought I heard the voice of God – “I own the cattle on a thousand hills”. I looked my brothers, and I REALLY mean brothers, in the eye and said, “Boyz – because this is God’s idea – lets take that ‘Leap of Faith’!

Our lives will never be the same! Almost immediately God began to show us that He was going to make it work financially. In fact, He has a little more ‘showing’ to do, so pray about that. Anyway, on day 2, Saturday when over 60 people showed up, and then well over 30 each day after that we knew we were part of something extraordinary!

There are so many stories of conversations some of you have had with co-workers, friends, and family about why we decided to Love the Lon Family and why we were doing this. Many of us just couldn’t stay away. There was an energy and a God-presence that energized us. There was a sense of greater purpose, community, getting to know, and beginning to really care about each other. We began to love each other deeply. Friendships were formed, friendships were deepened, and we truly began to care and to Love!

There are so many stories of God showing up with the answer at just the right moment, usually way past when Greg, Bernie and I thought it was the right moment and realizing His answer was the RIGHT answer. It caused us to Love Him more, to trust Him more.

Saturday after getting a panicked phone call from Victor Gonzalez at 6:00am telling me the news people were at the house (He had worked all night painting to be ready for the last work day), I raced to the Lon home. I was about 10 minutes away and the reporter from channel 7 called to ask how far away I was. I told her, and she said, there is breaking news but I’m going to wait until you get here.” It struck me – “One person can kill another but only a community of people who love can build something this big, this eternal.”

For the 150-175 people who had some part in this God-miracle – I love you! We have seen the mountaintop together and the view is GREAT! When you breathe the air in, it is exhilarating! Give us some more of that! Relationships have been built, families have been changed, people we didn’t know we now know and care about.

Tony, Maureen, Christian, Kids – The Waterboyz for Jesus want to thank you for allowing us to serve you. We have grown to love you these past 8 days! We care about you! You are not alone!

Listen, a noise on the mountains, like that of a great multitude! Listen, an uproar among the kingdoms, like nations massing together! The Lord almighty is mustering an army for war!

And here are the marching orders of that army -

"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

Tony, Maureen - as Greg and Bernie hand you the key to your house, know every time you walk into a room – we love you and God loves you more! This house is a testimony, an Ebenezer to a pursuing God, Jesus Christ who loved you past pain, separation from His father, and even death told us HE was going to prepare a home for you – today in a small way He is saying “See – everyone knows I’m a carpenter – together with my boyz I got ur done!” The watching world can’t deny today that this church, men, women, and children from dozens of different churches in the area, are practicing pure religion. So Greg – Bernie – can you hand Maureen and Tony the key?

Welcoming Home Celebration for the Lon Family

Dear Boyz & the whole EXTREME (for Jesus) Krew:

Before I start my last report –if you have a paragraph or two story from the week – send it to me! There are SO many I would love to post them for everyone to enjoy. Pat Nicholson sent me his so I’m including it with this email. ENJOY!

Yesterday was a HIGH day for everyone who participated in this Kingdom building project. When the last Krew showed up Sunday morning at 7:00am or earlier we were still VERY uncertain how everything was going to done before 2:30! Everyone onsite worked hard not to let the looming deadline steal their joy as they jumped in with both feet.

The ladies did an unbelievable job with each room – the ‘SPARKLE KREW’ earned every bit of their name. Debbie Catron, Robin Nicholson, Jeannie Foss, Suellen Velthuis, Debbie Ellington, Erika Pillai, The McIntyre ladies, Annette Royster, the lists goes on and on! Each room looked like something out of a catalog – and all under budget – well done!

Victor Gonzalez – you are a BEAST!!! With some help from Tim Pitts and Marty Weaver you painted the entire house. Down to the “ONE” above the front door for 1 Doxdam Ct. He almost worked non-stop from Saturday to Saturday. This was the first project he worked on and he felt the exhilaration of serving – being in the middle of God’s will for his life – being loved by the community and loving the community. His life has been changed – and ours has been because of him.

Jim Shields, Bryan Anastase, Jay Kessler and Chris Briner worked every single day – dozens and dozens of hours – Boyz I know you got a peek into how the “Prodigal Son’s Safe House” could actually materialize this week. There is an army waiting out there to partner with you in creating a safe – God-honoring next step into your and other courageous men’s destiny. I’m praying that 2009 will be the year it happens. Thank you for taking the first step of serving before being served.

Renae Campbell – you did an awesome job of finding furniture for the entire house – every single piece of furniture in the house in less than a week – WOW!! I can’t imagine the number of hours it took and the number of phone calls you made. Thank your husband for us – you and your family made it happen!

Every man, woman, and child (Brandon Monroe spent all three of his vacation days at the project working and being mentored by Men of God) who took time off work and helped – THANK YOU! A VERY safe estimate of volunteer hours invested in the Lon Family project is well over 2,000 hours. That represents a sacrificial giving of time! Every member of the family who made this sacrifice – whether by holding down the fort at home or working at the house – THANK YOU!

The businesses that partnered with us – Sandifer Electric, Mallick Plumbing, Holiday Inn, Watkins Limousines, Duron Paint, Habitat for Humanity, Glenn Gibb Appliances, Pro Cleaners (the Rahmers), Ferguson, Builders design, Gladhill Furniture, Frederick Bath & Vanities, Freeman Remodeling, Charles Kim and his company, Jeffrey SantaRita’s, again the list goes on and on – THANK YOU!

Last but ABSOLUTELY not least are Greg Lueck, Sheri Lueck, and his family along with Bernie and Becky Thompson- our two project manager families. Managing a project that morphed on a minute by minute basis without losing your joy is an unbelievable eternal legacy! I was talking to a lady on Sunday and she asked what Construction company I worked for. I said “Lady I can’t even nail two boards together! But I didn’t manage this job – a health care professional and a scientist did.” She was speechless! I love you guys – by leaning into Jesus’ carpenter arms you ‘got ur done!” I can just hear Jesus saying to you both – “Well done my good and faithful servant – enter into my joy!”

At 2:25pm on Sunday Bernie and the Krew were putting the toilet into place in Christian’s bathroom. The last piece of furniture was being moved into position, and the last carpet was being vacuumed in a flurry of last minute touches. I called Greg Lueck and told him to bring ‘em home! As the crowd who came to welcome the family home lined both sides of the road we saw the stretch limousine round the corner. We all exploded with applause, cheering, and more than a few tears. When the limo rolled to a stop the driver jumped out and literally rolled out the red carpet – it was a moment. The family got out and then Tony lifted Christian out of the car and into his wheel chair. The place exploded with cheers, applause, and tears. We all experienced God’s love in a deeper way – the hours, delays, phone calls, prayers, and late nights all melted away. For that minute we lived past sin and isolation and pain and we could see Christian restored and dancing with Jesus!

As we brought them into their “Behold I am making it all NEW” house we could hear their shrieks, comments, laughing, crying, and thank you’s. I became God’s doorman for a few minutes and got everyone’s shoes off (even the neighbor lady from across the street) and everyone got a chance to see the miracle first hand. It was a great community love fest. The Washington Post, Germantown Gazette, and Frederick NewsPost reporters were scrambling for pictures and stories – it was a crazy – excided – emotional scene. I went upstairs and saw Richard Fredericks, the senior pastor of Damascus Road talking with the Lon’s priest about the wonder of the day. I went back to the master bedroom and saw Sallie Fredericks, Robin Nicholson, Maureen and her sister standing in a circle holding hands and all talking at once. Each room I went into was filled with people talking and laughing and living in the kind of community God intended from the creation of time.

Some day God will call us to another one of these EXTREME projects. BUT God will have to knock us pretty hard on the head – it will have to be as clear and compelling as this one was. We have learned many lessons – lessons that will help us do it better – define boundaries – not miss some important steps. But the one thing we did right was to wait until we knew that we knew that it is a God-activity that we were simply joining. Without Him this would have been a tragic mess!! NO DOUBT ABOUT IT!! When we are sure – we will take the ‘leap of faith’ again – because it is the place we can see God most clearly – it IS pure religion.

As Bernie, Greg, and I pull together all our receipts, charged to our credit cards, we are trusting that God will provide the rest of what is needed to make this project complete. Since we don’t know the final number or exactly how much has come in we are trusting that God has it all figured out and will do what He’s done this whole time and will make it perfectly balance out.

Damascus Road Community Church will be having a celebration of this event on February 15th at 10:30am. They will have a video telling the story and the Lon’s with be there as well to join us for the celebration. If any other churches who partnered want to do a celebration of their own – contact me – I’ll get you the video and put you in touch with the Lon’s. Celebrating a God who can and does never gets old!

One last thing – just a ‘heads up’. Today is the day after the battle for many of us – let’s be careful not to let down our guard. Treat your wife and kids gently. Have eyes to see how the enemy might be trying to steal your or your families joy. Be on guard!

Let me close by saying – “Each of you have lived a life worthy of calling – THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! It has been very cool to write another chapter in the ongoing story of the Waterboyz for Jesus – we just keep carrying and watching and giving and loving! The best IS yet to come!!

Serving a Risen Savior & Lord

Paul

Here is a testimony from Pat Nicholson:

Paul, I know that you will be preparing an email, from the final day; I thought you should share with everyone; I had a great conversation with Tony. He was not only in tears and amazed at God's love but also at all of ours. He said that an extreme makeover by ABC, could never compare with this God adventure, he said sure the house would be all new and fancy, but it would never have been able to have the love from everyone hearts in it. He did not understand why a group of mostly strangers would do this for him and his family. I also got teary at that point, which I do not do, and could only reply with a hug, and said we did not do it; we were simply His hands and feet!!!! I still am amazed myself, as in Honduras also, how we can go and give so much and still receive more from Him than we are worthy.
Your brother,
Pat