There is a story that very few know. One of a single Mama of six. A woman who only dreamt of serving the Lord as a pastor's wife and, hopefully, one day becoming a missionary. However, when it all fell apart, she set out to be faithful to the Lord no matter what.
I started getting to know Sandra Roberts about eight years ago when she was working the third shift at Kroger to provide for her kids. Since then, by God's gracious plan, her dream of becoming an official missionary came true when she joined the leadership and prevention team at Rescue 1 Global -- a ministry with a mission to "counter human trafficking and provide holistic restoration: at home and around the world."
Sandra has moved about quietly, without assuming anything of others, but always leaving her hands open to receive where God would have her go, believing He would make a way. She is a true blessing -- A BRIGHT AND SHINING LIGHT -- in her home and for many who are desperately in need of physical help and Spiritual guidance.
But there is another person in the story that even fewer people know...
Sandra's aunt, affectionally known as Nannie.
While Sandra has worked so hard outside of the home, behind the scenes, sweet Nannie has helped manage their home and the everyday needs of the kids. She has given her entire life to help raise the kids in her family. Her light might be considered small by the world, but her sweet spirit and generous service shine so bright as she has been precisely what Sandra needed as she learned to navigate divorce and single motherhood.
When I think of these two, my heart goes immediately to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5...
"Blessed [spiritually prosperous, happy, to be admired] are the poor in spirit [those devoid of spiritual arrogance, those who regard themselves as insignificant], for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [both now and forever]. Blessed [inwardly peaceful, spiritually secure, worthy of respect] are the gentle [the kind-hearted, the sweet-spirited, the self-controlled], for they will inherit the earth. Blessed [joyful, nourished by God’s goodness] are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness [those who actively seek right standing with God], for they will be [completely] satisfied. Blessed [content, sheltered by God’s promises] are the merciful, for they will receive mercy. Blessed [anticipating God’s presence, spiritually mature] are the pure in heart [those with integrity, moral courage, and godly character], for they will see God. Blessed [spiritually calm with life-joy in God’s favor] are the makers and maintainers of peace, for they will [express His character and] be called the sons of God."
(v 3-9, AMP)
Especially now as precious Nannie's time on earth is coming to an end.
Currently, she is in hospice, comfortable there in the living room of the home they share.
I have to confess that as I began to pray for them, the questions on how Nannie will be cared for, Sandra will provide, and the kids will be served were overwhelming and caused me to quickly lose sight of all that God has already done. I began to scramble to think of what I would do to help, when the Holy Spirit reminded me of God's deep care for them. He also reminded me that there is a direct link through our church to help provide for this missionary family.
If these things are tough for me to process, I can only imagine how Sandra's mind and heart are racing right now. So, please take time today and follow this link...
There could not be a better time of year to bless these women who have served. I believe the Lord is measuring out to them the generosity that has so freely flowed from their lives. LET'S BE A LIGHT TO THOSE WHO HAVE SHARED THE LIGHT!
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