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– by Sandy McElfresh
In September, 2024, I served as a Chaplain for a call out in Damascus, VA. The ravaging floods of Hurricane Helene had torn the landscape leaving the inhabitants bleeding, homeless and in shock. Impact Mission teams were first in, working to feed and care for survivors. Clean out teams started the difficult process of clearing mud and debris from the interior of homes, and stopping deadly mold that follows the initial insult of flood waters. I was there in the beginning, when the wound was fresh and the community was in shock. I wrapped my arms around trembling shoulders as survivors stoically told their stories. Impact Missions have stayed with these survivors, working tirelessly for over a year now. They are in the final stages of restoration and rebuild.
Recently, I had an opportunity to go back. The landscape had changed dramatically. People were getting back to their lives, thankful for help. Roads had been repaired, new businesses launched, and hope was in full bloom…for most. There were a few homes still left condemned and uninhabitable, yet families stayed, having nowhere else to live. These last homes were complicated, but our teams pursued each one.
One of these families touched me deeply. Past disappointments had clouded their view of both government and Christians, making them dubious, but in desperation, finally willing to receive help. The Impact Mission Teams had purchased and set a 3 bedroom used trailer adjacent to their house and was busily repairing and painting the interior, and installing a wheelchair ramp and front steps. It was almost done. As they worked, I had a rare opportunity to talk to the family.
I gently knocked on the door and was cautiously invited into their world, their angst and struggle to simply get through each day. I cannot describe the palatable and enveloping despair, but I can tell you that Jesus came to visit that home. The sound of hammers and saws outside had softened their hearts towards the Gospel and the people that bring it. Walls of fear suddenly crumbled as they welcomed me in with open arms. We talked, laughed and cried together. The mother prayed to receive Jesus as her Savior, and the men bowed their heads in reverence to the holy moment. The son put his hand on my shoulder and prayed for me!
When we were finished, I walked outside to share with the team the eternal impact of that meeting. We rejoiced together as Heaven had gained a soul that day. One of the team members shook his head and said “Sandy, I’m glad your’e here. I could never do what you’ve done. I’m not good with people.” The truth is, my friend, I could never do what you have done! You’ve paved the way for the gospel to be preached and lives to be changed. You expressed tangible and authentic love without speaking a word. What you have done culminates the reason Impact Missions exists.
These teams are not heroes. They are unassuming and quiet in their work, seeking no accolades. They are silent witnesses of God’s purpose with simple, but powerful results. I’m honored to be part of it.
Desperate need – Clear opportunity – Real ministry – Christ revealed.
That’s Impact Missions
Pastor Sandy McElfresh
White Stone Methodist Church
White Stone, VA