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A Final Thank You,
to all heaven house project supporters and volunteers
It was only about three years ago that a tragic fire destroyed the O’Brien families’ garage and all of the contents inside. Little could anyone imagine that out of the ashes of this tragedy, the Lord was working to do something beautiful. Even those of us involved in the early planning and discussions did not fully envision the path we would take or the amazing final result. It is remarkable to look back and think of all of you who answered the call and became the Lord’s hands and feet to make this happen. By your obedience to His leading, a completed house now stands. There is no single person that can take the credit for the end result. It is wonderful that we all can joyfully share in the completion of this project.
The Lord impressed to me early in this adventure that He wanted to take the tragedy of the fire and create a living stage where His love in action could be on display. It was very appropriate that the site was on high ground and on a major thoroughfare. As we moved forward, it was truly remarkable to see people from all over the metropolitan area come and make this project a reality. Businesses, churches, organizations and mostly just everyday people joined in this effort. It was amazing to watch as people from all different church denominations and affiliations came together to work and pray in unity. I witnessed people praying together at the site that did not know each other or the O’Brien family but they all knew of a God of love and second chances.
In this season of giving thanks, it seems extremely timely that I make one final attempt to thank all of you who joined this effort. Mere words can not express how thankful I am to each one of you that gave of your heart to this project. It is simply not possible for me to adequately convey to you how grateful I am for the hundreds of people that contributed of themselves to make this dream a reality. If I have not yet personally told you how much I appreciate you, please permit me to make one more attempt. Thank you so much for giving of your time, your talents and your treasure. While it is true that our good works do not earn our place in heaven, good works are a sign of a good heart, a sign of a heart given over in service to a God of love. Because heaven will be populated by people like you, it is one reason that heaven will be a wonderful place. I pray that your true reward is not found in my words written here, but stored up in heaven for what you have done.
Now, this amazing “stage” has become a living memorial. As we think about or drive by this house that was built in love, we can rejoice that we were a part of it. Personally, I will miss the experience of working behind the scenes and at the site with all of you. I will treasure the memories made. I hope you have been blessed to be a part of this effort as well. Even better than the memories we all have tangible evidence of a God who is love and still does miracles.
Tom Schwalbach
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