Every summer, our church has a day of service in the community. Different groups form to work on various projects. It could be something as simple as passing out cold water bottles to people on the walking trail or donating items to a women's shelter or giving free haircuts to anybody who needs one. One year, I joined a group who wanted to thank and honor our local firefighters. One person organized a breakfast drop off. Every person or family donated an item to take to each firehouse. We visited about 7 firehouses that Saturday morning. It was great to hear about their work and learn from them. We prayed for them and dropped off breakfast.
Recently, I had them on my mind again as I passed a fire station. I had the idea to take a basket full of goodies and encouraging God Stories booklets to them. I went to the store and picked out a basket and goodies. I got to work and put it all together, including the God Stories booklets, with a thank you note. Once it was full, I put it in a festive gift bag and tied some colorful ribbon at the top. My husband and I picked up a dozen doughnuts on the way. We knocked on the firehouse door and a young man came to the door. He seemed happy to receive us. We thanked him for his service and gave him the gift with the God Stories booklets. Sometimes the firehouse is empty like this morning. I simply left this fun surprise inside the office for them to discover on their return. The thank you card was inside and I hope it makes them feel valued and honored!
Last week, the Brogdons and I drove to the Los Fresnos Firehouse. We were able to meet the Fire Chief, Gene Daniels. He was so nice and welcoming. The facility opened in 2018 is like new! He told us they have over 30 volunteers for their fire department and several EMT workers on staff full-time. It was a pleasure to meet them and express our gratitude!
When you think of those people who serve everyone in the community, you might want to express your gratitude as well. It's a good experience to put faces to the names and honor them!
"Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed." Romans 13:7
Leigh Aten
Brownsville, Texas
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