A number of years ago I had the undeserved good fortune to meet a gentleman (a gentle giant of a gentleman actually) who demonstrated to me exactly what it meant to be in the Lord's army.  What a privilege to call this man my friend.  
      I am trying to think of one minute that I spent in Ernest's presence that he wasn't serving someone else. Not a single one comes to mind.  His life was about responding to God's call to serve.  For instance after 9/11 he heard the Lord telling  him to feed the poor, and so every Sunday afternoon he and his wife Vicki would gather with family and friends and make 300 sack lunches to distribute to the homeless.  
      Today, my sweet friend is in hospice care.  He is blessed to be surrounded by his loving wife, daughters and grandchildren.  But his unfathomable trust in God's provision did not include saving for his own end-of-life care.  
       I truly believe that if the situation were reversed, Ernest would be the first person to ask others to help me.  And so I am appealing to you to consider joining me in assisting this family in their time of need.  
       Thank you for your consideration.  Even a small amount will make a significant difference, and will show this family that their father's life lesson was indeed the best one.  
Love,
Val