You’re Never too Old to Volunteer (Lessons from Samaritan’s Purse Pt.1)

When Catherine and I first arrived to DeRidder it didn’t take us long to realize that we were the youngest volunteers there. I dropped all expectations of meeting any young adults around our age as well. I actually really loved the intergenerational community though. The world race values intergenerational relationships, however there’s something different and special when it’s less of a mentor relationship and more of actually doing ministry/life together. Of course, there is always an aspect of mentorship involved when you’re doing life together. It’s only natural that you’ll learn from those older and wiser as you talk and listen. 

There was one couple we met who was especially inspiring. Their names are Janet and Herbert. They’re 83 and 88 years old and have been married for over 60 years. We weren’t on the same team as them, but we heard from many other volunteers that when they go on deployments with Samaritan’s purse they’re out there pulling limbs and running chain saws just as well as any of the younger volunteers. They only stayed for a couple days and during their time there, Catherine and I sat with Janet listening to their stories from their 25 years in Peru with Wycliffe. We quickly grew fond of her and wished we could’ve had more time to get to know her and hear more stories. 

About a week and a half later, when we were pulling into the parking lot after a day of working, I saw Janet’s bright orange hat in a car and immediately got really excited. I looked at Catherine and said “Is that Janet?!? Are Janet and Herb back?!?” They were indeed back with Samaritan’s purse and ready to once again get back into the neighborhood. This time we did get the opportunity to be on a team with them and it was such an inspiring time. Herbert barely slowed down. Janet also worked hard and did what she could. She knew her limits and would take breaks when necessary, but she certainly wasn’t going to let her age stop her from doing what she can to help. Herbert however had to be told to take breaks. 

At one house, we had a tree in the yard that had gotten split in half and fell two separate directions. We were working on cutting it into small enough chunks that we could then move to the side of the road to be picked up by the city later on. Herbert was using a pole saw to cut the tree up and was doing great. Janet was trying to get his attention to tell him to take a break and drink some water, but he couldn’t hear her so she sent me to tell him. I walked over to him when he was paused to look at where he should cut next and said “Your wife said it’s time for a break” the look on his face was one of disappointment and defeat. He wanted to keep working, but also knew it was best to listen to his wife. After a short break he was up and working again. The next day, we had to remove carpet and some drywall from a house, and he was once again working tirelessly. He was on his knees the majority of the time pulling up the carpet and removing tack strips. 

(Herb and Janet working together)             (Soaking up Janet’s Wisdom) 

Working side by side with them (as well as the other volunteers) really made me think about my own life/future. Never would I have imagined myself in my 80’s doing such physical ministry, yet Herb and Janet showed me it’s definitely possible. I also ended up reconsidering any complaints I have about pain holding me back from any physical activity. I can’t even tell you how many times I heard the phrase “It just gets worse the older you get” in reference to back pain or knee pain… yet I was surrounded by people older than I, dealing with pain and still working harder than me out there in yards, houses and on roofs. 

I have deeply enjoyed my time with Samaritan’s Purse and have especially loved getting to know the volunteers I was with. I have gained new family members during my time with them. I was inspired and challenged. I’m thankful God chose to send me to Luisiana for those 2 weeks. I definitely won’t soon forget those I worked with and enjoyed life with. I pray that the lessons they taught me sink deep into my heart and years from now I won’t let anything hold me back from any kind of ministry God might lead me to. 

Blessings! 

Kaci 

Fundraising Update: 

I have about $2,250 to raise to meet my $8,500 December deadline and $5,800 after that to be fully funded. If I don’t reach my December goal I might not be able to launch with my squad in January. Please playfully consider partnering with me on this journey. The ministry would not be possible without financial support. You are a crucial part of what God is doing around the world. Donations can be made through the link at the top of my blog as well as by check. Thank you to everyone who has already donated and helped me to raise almost $6,000! I’m grateful for all the love and support I’ve received from everyone.