By IDA NICKERSON
Over 12 and one-half years ago God called my family out of the restaurant business.
My story begins in a small town church called Bethel Baptist, under the leadership of Rev. Henry L. Smith. I was called into the ministry in that church, I preached in that church for a short time, and, prior to that, I served as choir director, singing acappella for over 15 years.
When I wasn’t preaching or singing I would listen to the elders continuously say, “Something had to be done about those kids hanging out on those street corners.”
This went on for over 20 years.
Unbeknownst to my family, at that same time the Lord was preparing us to make the biggest change of our entire life by taking a leap of faith. He asked us to leave the church, close the restaurant and remember his servant, Job.
We are taught, “The Father, Son and Holy Spirit are one.” The Father, representing God, The son, represented by Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, as the comforter left to lead, guide and direct our lives.
The question is, do we believe it?
Well I can tell you; it is true. We had to leave that church because the people did not understand that very truth I just spoke of. I remember the day clearly when the Lord softly spoke to my heart saying, “Come from among them.” I remember him telling me to close our restaurant and follow him.
Recently, Pastor Ted Oliver called me to his office to help with Addiction Recovery Ministries by raising funds for the Women’s and Children’s Shelter project. Before this meeting, I remembering telling one of my mentors that God was about to come and get me.
I had been faithful, following God’s lead, but knew I was ready for change. I was waiting for Him to move me up the ladder and allow me to help others in a different capacity.
I accepted Pastor Ted’s offer with great humility, knowing without a doubt God had heard and answered my prayers.
For a long time, I worked as a community volunteer, after being called from a successful business. I had gotten accustomed to the finer things of life before my sudden change. So the call came at a good time.
My husband, Gabe, and I knew Pastor Ted, who ordained me about seven years ago. He saw enough in me to hear the voice of God and be obedient to the call to become my “Father in the Ministry.”
Pastor Ted’s most recent invitation to help raise funds for ARM’s new women’s shelter was God saying, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
We will be launching into a series of funraisers to pay off the property, which will require the community’s help.
The first is a “Fill the Bucket” event, taking place adjacent to Bank of America, today, noon-6 p.m., and Saturday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
We also have jars for donations at Tommy’s convenience stores.
We appreciate any size donation to help women, both single and those with children, recover from addiction in a safe shelter, in Mineral Wells.
For more information on ways to donate, call (940) 325-7499.
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