The last three days of this trip are almost beyond explanation. We watched and bore witness to GOD bringing things together, as only He could do. Sadly, our Israeli family fell victim to the NY Building inspector’s Red Tag. (Which means their house is unsafe and only fit for demolition). Yet, through the reality of their home being marked for the dozier the dear mother was able to say, “Jehovah Jireh!” She knew the secret of trusting on the Everlasting one. Plus, her entire family learned of their True Messiah, Yashua. Maybe the love demonstrated by a few Christian witnesses will make all of the difference.
We met many great families who were blossoming through tragedy. The Bouno Family was one great example. Anna, Brittany , her father and brother, all weathered the storm in their home, They sat on the second floor land as they watched their entire first floor become flooded by the storm surge. (Below is a picture of their Home as the first wave of the surge came crashing in)
This family still has the sweetest disposition, despite all that they have been through. It was a kindness of God to me, that he allowed me to visit in their home each day this week. Every time I was met at the door with a smile and a hug. Through a Cup of coffee and a warm meal, witnessing to them of the unconditional love of God was made really easy. They knew God loved them and cared for them because a living breathing “Child of GOD” was seeking them out to love on them each day. They told me how much they blessed by us and the kindness we showed,; yet, the greatest gift received was the blessing given to my by coming to know this wonderful family.
Next, there was Anthony Gatti and His family. His Mother, His Brother & Father. They lost it all as well. We sat up our serving station, on the first day in the reckage of their family home. But Oh, what a faith they had. Mom had been in the towers when they fell in 2001 and invited several of the survivors back to her Staten Island home to stay in Anthony’s room, while he was gone to the Army. Although, Mom was truly shaken by the total loss of her home of 30+ years; she had an unshakable faith in Jesus Christ and a solid resolve to rebuild from the ruins.
The Gatti’s were kind enough to allow us to use their yard for our mobile feeding station. From there we met 100’s of memorable people, all of which endured the terrible disaster.
(Below are Gatti’s word to us.)
And then there was George and Shirley, A great couple who invited me into their home and into their life. George was a teller of tales and a real humorous character. Shirley was a strong quiet lady who worked for the court system of New York. We shared time around the kerosene heater talking about life and the differences between city and country living. Of coarse, there is no comparison, our lives are lived in what could be considered in, two different worlds. George and I made fast friends. Their home was washed out but the spirit of this family was high. They had been spend his retirement restoring this home on Staten Island, buying new appliances and electronics. All of which was destroyed. They are living, now in a home with nothing but wall studs, a kitchen table, some canned goods and plenty of cleaning supplies. George even broke his ankle on the first day back in the house. But I tell you the spirit of life, in him was undeniable. He showed me what it was to advance through adversity and maintain the heart that makes life worth living.
George and Shirley are Pictured Below
Rescue the Perishing 