June 5, 2006
In our search for the right piece of property to be used as a ministry center for the New Orleans area (in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina), we were looking at a strip mall right next to the Expressway. It did not really fulfill our desires, but it had some potential. However, across a side street from it was a beauty college building—it had been a “Bonanza” steak house and looked like a church and was in quite good condition. When we were finally able to reach the owners, they said they were possibly interested in selling because they were opening their beauty college in Houston.
When we looked at the building we found that little would have to be done to have it ready for us to use. Then we met with the wife and discovered that they were Spirit-filled Christians who were seeking God’s direction for the building and they felt He wanted to reach that community through the building. We talked and prayed, but realized that what they should get from the sale was far more than we would be able to pay. Therefore we continued to look elsewhere.
But God was not finished. I received a call from the husband who indicated that God had not given them rest and they felt we were supposed to have the property. They asked if we could come up some (2/5 of the difference) and they would decrease their asking price by 3/5 of the difference—which was a substantial amount. God has blessed, and thanks to the generosity of the Alliance people through CAMA Services and through the obedience of this couple, we are purchasing this ideal facility for the ministry center to the New Orleans area. Thank you Lord for Your provision.
Story by Rev. Frank Smith, Church Health Director for the Southern District.