“Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.” -Philippians 2:4
In his recent sermon, Rev. Josh Attaway taught us about Koinonia Farm. This farm was founded in Georgia by Clarence and Florence Jordan. The purpose of Koinonia Farm was to bring people together and live under the teachings of Jesus, just as the early church did in the Book of Acts. Koinonia Farm has been doing ministry since 1942.
One of the couples that were blessed by the ministry of Koinonia Farm were Millard and Linda Fuller. The Fullers were, by all accounts, a successful couple. By the age of 29, Millard was a successful lawyer who was already worth over 1 million dollars. Their hard work took a toll on their lives and their marriage. By age 30, the Fullers were spent. They were exhausted, and their marriage was on the rocks.
Thankfully, they were unwilling to let their marriage fail. With the same determination that allowed them to build a successful business, they set out to use their wealth to help others. They were ready to use their gifts to improve others’ lives.
Their desire to make a difference led them to find a way to help families who needed a helping hand. With their friends at Koinonia Farm, they began working to build housing for those in need. In just a few years, this partnership grew into what is now known as Habitat for Humanity. The Fuller’s early work and contributions helped to develop a worldwide ministry that has built or refurbished 13.4 million homes.
Millard and Linda Fuller were not skilled builders. Neither had ever really worked with a hammer or screwdriver. They were, however, willing to listen to God during tremendous pain in their personal life. They changed their focus and began working to bless the lives of others.
God calls us to a life of generosity and gratitude. When we listen to God, and open our mind to new possibilities, God will lead us. When we look to the needs of others and place our neighbors needs above ourselves, we will find that we can change ourselves and the world.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
