In early 2004, the West-Ark Church of Christ was blessed to meet a young man named TJ Foster. TJ is an 8th grader who attends Ramsey Jr. High. He suffers from Cerebrial Palsy and is therefore dependent on others for help with everything he does. He lives in very modest conditions yet he is one of the happiest people we have ever known. From the first time he attended youth worship with us, one thing was clear: he loves to sing. TJ gives 100% to praising God. He is almost always the first person to show up for class and worship and he volunteers to lead prayer every time he is here. We have been so blessed to get to know TJ.
Recently, one of our adults took TJ home and realized there would be no Christmas presents for TJ this year. When the West-Ark Teens heard about this, they decided to change that. They spread the word to one another and in three days time, they had collected over $300 to make sure TJ would have a great Christmas. Then, on Sunday, January 2nd, many of the teens met at the church building and spent the afternoon buying gifts for TJ. They brought them back to the building and wrapped them. At the end of the 6 p.m. worship service, the group surprised TJ and presented him with gifts of love from his brothers and sisters in Christ. He was overwhelmed. He didn't stop saying thank you all the way home.
As the Youth Minister at West-Ark, I have learned a lot from TJ. He is my
buddy. He is my friend. He is my brother in Christ. I have also learned so
much from the teens I am blessed to work with. They reminded me and helped
prove the fact that it is truly better to give than it is to receive. I hope
this story and these pictures bless you and I hope you thank God every day
for your health, wealth, and spiritual blessings!
-Brad Pistole
