Ben--part 1

Hi all! Ben here. You know… “early to bed… a penny saved…” that guy. Well, not literally. That Ben died a long time ago, because he was made of flesh and blood. I’m the Ben made of paper and ink. I’m a one-hundred dollar bill. Got it?

Anyhoo, I heard about this $100 project thingy some of you are doing. My buddy Al and I convinced Craver to let me do a post from my own perspective.

Somehow, people got the idea that they can own us greenbacks. That’s ridiculous! Nobody owns me! No, you see, I visit folks for a while. In reality, I belong to God. I (money) existed in some form or other before we enter into partnership and I’m still around after you flesh and blood types turn to dust. No offense.

We greenbacks are too easily influenced, because we always end up doing what you want to do. I am ashamed of some of the events in my past. (Yup, picture that… a greenback with a red face!) I can’t count how many times I woke up in a strange place, unable to remember what I did the night before. Sorry, that’s not really what I wanted to talk to you about.

A few days ago, Craver said something about how God can surprise you with $100 as he watches to see how you invest in His kingdom. The Lord put it on someone’s heart to put me to work on this, so I anonymously showed up in Craver’s mailbox. For real!

My Caribbean compadre did as he said, and launched me into the ride of a lifetime with the Seeds of Hope food and clothing pantry. I hope he doesn’t get proud and take any credit, because all he did was let go, and God orchestrated a whole bunch of other people and programs to do the rest.

Each week, 40 to 70 families will receive free assistance from the Seeds of Hope ministry at New Song Church in Bolingbrook. These guests will get several bags of food, including frozen meat. They can get some lightly used clothing, and sometimes toys for the kids. While they are there, they can sit for a while with Craver or one of his assistants who treat their guests to free hot chocolate and delicious pastries. Some of these souls are carrying heavy burdens and Craver’s crew do what they can to lighten the load and point people in the direction of Jesus Christ. This week, the visitors will receive an unexpected bonus. Each family will receive a free set of dishes!