Event Day: Hope Memorial

Saturday, November 12th was one of the most memorable days of our young lives. We were able to present a piece of artwork to the city of Joplin. This piece of artwork was very special too, it was actually made from the debris of a thrift store in Joplin from the aftermath of the devastating tornado that swept through this city on May 22, 2011. This tornado took 162 lives, and from the looks of the storm path through the city, it's amazing that more lives weren't lost.

The idea behind this artwork was to give back to the city of Joplin and show them that God can redeem anything and He has a plan for us. As a matter of fact, the verse that is tied to this piece is Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord."They are plans for good and not disaster, plans to give you a future and a hope." And that is exactly what we wanted to show the citizens and survivors in Joplin - that there is a hope and a wonderful plan.

The journey that we all have taken over the past 6 months has been 100% driven by God. From that initial conversation Anique and I had with Brent and Kristin in late May, to the time I spent with CJ and Leann in their kitchen back in Indiana, to the late nights and Saturdays working on the project with the crew, to the all-nighter we pulled that last Thursday to finish up the details that really set this project apart. It was a wonderful experience that led into the event day. It's no co-incidence that Anique and I's faith has grown 10-fold over the last few months. We have seen what amazing work God can do if we just let him do the leading and we just act as His hands and feet. Not to mention the fellowship we were able to have as we worked together on the piece.

And talk about a mountaintop experience. All this time and energy built up to the event day where we were set to present the project to the city of Joplin. The event was held at Joplin Family Worship Center. This venue is serving as a refuge for volunteers and community members who need assistance during this difficult time.

I was extra excited because I had two great friends who have mentored me through high school (CJ and Rob) who were making the trip all the way from Sulphur Springs, Indiana (9+ hour drive). My parents were also coming. The small community of Sulphur Springs has really blessed the Set Apart ministry with monetary needs, prayer, time, and love. It was great to have some of the gang their for the big day.

During the event, attendees were asked to come up and be a contributing artist with the piece. This means that attendees came up and put their fingerprint in the skyline of the memorial. This artwork is every bit as much their work as it is ours. In the same meaning, this story is theirs as much as it is ours. We're all a family through God's eyes and allowing folks to participates emphasizes this point.

All in all the event was unbelievable. From the moment I entered the auditorium I could feel God's presence all around. I was extremely emotional and happy and sad all at the same time. And I think our time working on this project taught all of us about being obedient to God's calling. If He asks us to work on something, do it with a smile and in joy. This obedience will lead down a fruitful path. I think that our biggest takeaway from yesterday.

Below are some pictures of the memorial.

That last night on Thursday after we pulled an all-nighter. The piece was in Brent's garage.
He was painting protectant on it before it got loaded into the truck.

Another shot of the piece. The hands of God are incredible!

It got moved down to Joplin. Here is a side angle of the piece.

Amazing. It turned out so much better than any of us ever imagined. That's what happens
when you let God do the art directing!

The back of the piece is wallpapered in prayers from all around the world. We had 38 states, 20+ countries, and 5 continents who sent prayers to Joplin.

A few examples.

Here are some of the artists - Anique, me, Michael, Brent, Kristin, Carolle

Can't forget Isaiah. He is Brent and Kristin's son.

It was an unbelievable experience to be apart of something that was so special and will bless thousands of people over time. Sometimes Anique and I question why we are in Kansas City and what is God's purpose for us being 8 hours away from family. Well, this project is a perfect example of why God brought us here - to do His work and be obedient to His calling!

Check back again for more tidbits and side stories about the Hope Memorial.