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| Tuesday, July 15, 2008 |
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Giving Is Contagious!
Church of God - General
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 The high price of gas has caused many people to fret and grumble, and it is causing a severe impact on many pocketbooks. The Bossier City (LA) First Church of God recently employed a creative approach to making a small dent in the price of gas and providing a big splash of goodwill for their community. With the cooperation of J & A Stop & Go, they conducted a gas buy-down in the form of a $0.30 per gallon rebate to customers on July 5.
“Those purchasing the first one thousand gallons of gas from that store received an instant refund of $0.30 per gallon,” said Pastor Johnny Creasong. “With an investment of $250 in $1 bills and $50 in dimes, we gave money away for about three and a half hours on a Saturday morning.” In addition to the cash rebate, customers received church pens, business cards, and a tract titled Running on Empty?
“We believe that one of the missions of a church is to reach out into the community and make a difference,” said Jane Burnes from Bossier First Church. “When Pastor Johnny mentioned the gas buy-down project, we felt lead to be a part of the team. My husband and I are always looking for ways to serve God.”
“It was a joy to see those from our church work together to offer the people of our community some relief from the overwhelmingly high gas prices,” commented Fran Winningham, one of the many participants from the church. “Of course, it was very hot, a typical Louisiana summer day. But that didn’t stop our crew, who smiled and waved in the blazing sun, speaking to those who were stopped by the red lights just in front of the Stop and Go, urging them to turn in and fill up.”
Well, it didn’t take much urging. Everyone involved greeted customers with kind words and heartfelt smiles. Those benefiting from the gas buy-down responded with an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
“They couldn’t believe that we were actually just giving them money back, said Fran. “They were just relieved! Many were so touched by what was happening that they wanted to give back and offered their rebate to another customer. Giving is contagious!”
The big question of the day was, “Why are you doing this?” “Because we are a community church called to care,” responded Fran and the others. “God expects us to fulfill that calling, and what a blessing when we do!” said Fran.
“It was a joy to tell them that Bossier City 1st Church of God just wanted to lighten their gasoline burden for the day,” said Jane. “It put smiles on their faces and ours too. We look forward to the next chance to serve our community through the church’s outreach programs.” |
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