Assist the Vargas Family in Their Time of Need

This is Sarah Jonovich, your AHG Troop Shepherd. As a responder to needs in our troop family, I wanted to let everyone know that a devastating fire has occurred at our troop coordinator Vanessa's home. By the grace of God, everyone is safe, but the damage and loss is extensive. Even a fire confined to the kitchen causes damage and loss throughout the entire home. Every surface of her home is covered in toxic soot as smoke permeated every inch of her home. Think about the items your family uses every day: toothbrush and toiletries, books, cooking utensils, clothing, water bottles. All of these items, and many, many more, will have to be replaced if they cannot be decontaminated. They are currently safely situated in a hotel, but the loss is staggering. With this type of emergency, daily unexpected expenses pop up; from food and necessities to repairing the damage and the restoration of the home.

With compassionate hearts, we are called to weep with those who weep and give freely to those in need. Friends, I have watched firsthand as Vanessa, and by extension the entire family, gives and gives of herself and her time for this troop; not for accolades or honor, but as a service unto the Lord. The time invested into this troop is monumental, and even this fire has not dampened her determination to bring forth the Word of God as Holy Week is upon us. She has answered the call for so many of us in hard times, always showing up with the right blend of a Spirit-filled prayer, a healthy dose of truth, and generously meeting the physical needs of the troop. She is the last person on earth to take, but I am making the ask on her behalf that we bless her family in this very difficult time. As prayer warriors and family in Christ, we are called to lift the Vargas family up in prayer to the Heavenly Father who we know will turn what the enemy meant for evil for good. We are a group of families with differing situations, abilities, and gifts. Whatever your situation, please pray for this family and encourage your children to pray for them as well. As the situation evolves and the needs change, I will let you know, but at this juncture, we are asking first of all for prayer, and secondly for contributions to bridge the gap.

As Paul encouraged the Roman church, "Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality." - Romans 12:9-13