Early 90’s….
A lady in our church owned the shoeshine company at the Phoenix airport. She often hired church members, especially women. It was a smart business idea because it was unusual; I haven’t seen that anywhere else. I worked as a team with another lady.
I never minded hard work. I was a waitress for years, and that’s hard work too. But some days I would be embarrassed about shining shoes and would hope I wouldn’t see anyone at the airport who I recognized. Other days it didn’t bother me at all. One thing about it – I always had the opportunity to share my faith because the first question out of a customer’s mouth would invariably be, ‘What’s a girl like you doing shining shoes?”
I would always say that it gave me the opportunity to earn some money so I could do the work of the ministry. Some of them didn’t even know what I meant by that. So I’d tell them I had started an organization to help women, and they would usually ask me what kind of help. I didn’t offer too much information up front; that way they would keep asking questions, and it didn’t sound like I was preaching.
When they asked me what kind of ministry I had, I would say that I worked with women who had been through abortion, to help them deal with the scars it had caused.
During a five-minute shoe shine, I could give a complete testimony.
Shining shoes part-time represents a very un-glamorous job, but for me, it provided a way to be in full-time ministry and to witness at the same time. When Jesus bent down to wash the disciples feet, his actions represented one who was a servant to others. It was a menial job, but he taught important lessons through humility. Unless we are willing to be a servant first, we will never be a leader.
My life today is a long ways away from the Phoenix airport. I no longer shine shoes, but I give my testimony to a world-wide audience via television. I often think of those days, however, and I can’t help but smile. I wonder if I would be where I am today if I hadn’t been willing to be that shoe-shine girl at the Phoenix airport.
We are beginning a new school year this week at Morningside’s Master’s Media. We will be teaching the students how to run camera, direct, edit and produce television shows.
But first, we will teach them how to serve.
Love,
You have had a very interesting and diverse life. No writer could ever make up the story of your life, except for God. God Bless you and Jim as you continue on Gods’ journey for your lives.
Thanks Lori for being a real person! Some of us girls hve been through some very tough times until the Lord made a difference in our lives. It’s very comforting and encouraging to hear the Word from someone who has been there. Keep up the good work!
God bless you Lori for this special message & reminder about serving. I am a 62 yr young “Gramma” of 5 sweet GRANDdaughters. Three years ago I lost my job due to my health & my life changed drasticly…feeling like I was no longer needed (a bit of a pity party). God made it possible for me to rent a nice little apartment at affordable rent for Seniors. He has been faithful just as He has been so many times in my life. Your reminder spoke to my heart, that even with where I am, I can serve. There is a very diverse group of people who live here, most with needs. I am praying that God helps me to see areas right here in my complex to serve others.
Thank you & God Bless you!
Carol
Lori,
I am s blessed by your ministry. I was blessed to visit with you at morningside during our family vacation. You took the time to come out and meet me and my daughter Sarah. I finished your book an was like wow!!!! You are an awesome minister of the gospel and I praise GOd for you!!!
Thank you Lori, for sharing your heart and being so transparent. You are such a blessing to me!!
Thank you for a great word!
Jan