Theatrical, vocally talented, sweet, a friend, a perserverer, these are just some of the words I would use to describe Joanie. I (Lindsay) first met her at a Perspectives class I was taking at my church years ago when she was there with the main speaker for that day. I had no idea that the Lord would once again cross our paths at College of the Ozarks. Joanie is one of 8 children, she was raised by her missionary parents and lived in Budapest, Hungary and Kiev, Ukraine while growing up. She is continuing her education at the College of the Ozarks with a degree in Family Studies and Social Services. After college, Joanie hopes to find a job in her degree. As graduation is drawing near, Joanie is finding she needs a car but not the funds to afford one. When I was in college, I remembered how much it meant to me when my friends pooled their funds together to get me some boots for the cold weather. Such a blessing has only further reminded me of what the Body of Christ is all about. How much more is a gift that you receive when given sacrificially by others? How much more is the gift when you realize, " 'If you then, who are evil, know how to give good things to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him' " (Matthew 7:11) ? Giving a gift is more than just revealing your generosity but also the generosity of God. Such a message is the one I want to go with this gift. Some may think that a car may be extravagant but what if through our willingness to bless someone in such a way is to paint a picture of God's extravagant grace? That's transformational.
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