Gleanings 2021

Here are a few "snapshots" of our Young Enough to Serve week at Gleanings:

When we arrived at the base—because we had quarantined, monitored our temperatures/symptoms, and filled out our waivers—all we had to do was get our temperatures taken and turn in the forms, and we were ready to start work the next morning.

(Because these pre-conditions were met, we didn’t have to wear masks in the dining hall and other public places. We were "part of the family"—as Gleanings Director Fritz put it—who do not wear masks "at home." Everyone wore face coverings in the soup plant.)

After some instruction and getting re-familiarized with the process (building on the experiences we had last year), by the end of the first shift we were in sync with what was going on and ready to hit our second shift full speed. It was great to be a part of the team again!

It felt really good to be using our abilities and strengths in an outreach for the Lord. Although it was a little bit intimidating working beside some of the younger workers (it seemed like they could work twice as fast as us), it did not discourage us. It just challenged us to keep going! We had wonderful fellowship while we were working (when the machines weren't too loud and we could carry on a conversation).

The morning fellowship around breakfast and devotions was very inspiring. Getting to know other people who are also in the process of seeking how they can serve the Lord in their retirement was great—getting new information and some ideas and tips about what opportunities are available. We really appreciated the sharing times. Because we attend a small church and have been going there so long, we know most people's background and testimonies. So, it was a fresh perspective to hear new people's experiences and testimonies of their walk with the Lord.

As I was boxing soup bags, I tried to pray over each one and ask God to bless it and the family who will receive it. I began to feel a little bit overcome as I wondered what that family will do when the soup is gone. Where's their next meal going to come from? This soup will sustain them for a while, but what about the next week and the weeks after?  Then the Lord spoke to me and said, "You're doing my work, and it is my responsibility to take care of these families. This is just one way the door can be opened for them to hear my voice."

That encouraged me to persevere, be sincere in my prayers, and to work with a heart of rejoicing, knowing that God is in control, and I don't have to worry about what their future will be. I just need to take care of what I am doing today, and let God take care of the rest (like the Keith Green song . . . Keep doing your best, pray that it's blest, and He'll take care of the rest.) That was an uplifting experience!

Thursday during devotions they had a Zoom call with a missionary/pastor in the Kalahari in Namibia  Africa.  Ever since I saw the movie, The Gods Must Be Crazy, that area and the bush people have had a special place in my heart. To hear this missionary talk about the work and the ministry there was wonderful. Hearing his personal testimony and experiences really touched my heart. His sincere desire to serve the Lord without any thought of how it will benefit or profit himself was very refreshing to me. I really appreciated his perspective.

The whole week was an awesome experience.  Of course, the food was amazing, and the accommodations were perfect!  We were the first to stay in the newly remodeled (new paint, flooring, etc.) 8 plex (the same room we had last year). The weather couldn't have been better, and the view of the snowcapped mountains beyond the orange trees laden with fruit was spectacular!

My wife Karen has already scoured the internet for the solyanka recipe, a Russian sausage potato soup with cabbage and dill pickles (and the "must" additions of lemon juice and sour cream--as Gleanings staff member Henrijs insists!). It was delicious, especially with Norma's homemade bread!

Can't wait til next year!