On Sunday we had the privilege of having guests with us at church. The Stevens family has been an encouragement to me and Aaron since I started teaching their two youngest girls last year. They are from Liberia. They spent time several years in a refugee camp in Africa (because of a war) before they moved to Roanoke almost two years ago. Mr. Stevens, Joseph, has shared lots of stories about horrific things they have seen and experienced, but he always does so with sure confidence in the power and goodness of God. His wife, Caroline, has been sick with cancer, and now she is at home with hospice care. The girls know their mother is dying, but their smiles and sweet spirits have not faded! We enjoyed worshipping with them and breaking bread together.

This picture was taken a month or so ago. Aaron and I went to their home with dinner to share a meal and encouraging conversations with them.
This was Sunday after church at a Mexican restaurant. Aaron recommended this meal to Joseph...I think he was overwhelmed at first, but he ate the whole plate! Joseph works night shifts at Lowe's and takes care of his wife during the day. He handles all school stuff for the girls. He is a true servant.
From left to right: Diamond (10th grade), Stanlyn (3rd grade), Joseph, Jovina (1st grade).

There is a community effort for this family. It's called Coins for Caroline. Their sweet picture is all over the news and a couple of sponsoring organizations are trying to raise $200,000 for them. Check out the website: coinsforcaroline.org