C
hristmas is the season for making our gift requests known
with wish lists. A child's wish list might include a tablet,
bicycle, video game system or American Girl doll; an adult's
could include a handbag, TV, jewelry or the latest Apple product.
In asking for the hottest toy on the market or longing for that luxury
car, do we overlook the value of little things? How often do we ask for
simple or seemingly insignificant presents? We usually aim high and
create justifications for the items on our wish lists.
During the Christmas season, we in The Salvation Army often hear
some big requests when helping children, families and seniors through our
Angel Tree programs and other social services. Through our Community
Care Ministries we also answer requests for certain items from care facilities,
homebound individuals and correctional facilities.
One day late last November, the North and South Carolina Divisional Head-
quarters received a phone call from Chaplain Chad Hendren of the Wilkes County
Correctional Facility in North Wilkesboro, North Carolina. He requested little
address books, a small, simple, inexpensive item. The chaplain explained that the
inmates needed a way to keep track of the addresses and contact information of
family and friends, since they do not have Internet access. Such a simple, seemingly
insignificant item proved most valuable and meaningful.
In the process of figuring out how to assist this facility, we noted that North Wilkesboro
is a foothills town located between Winston-Salem and Boone in North Carolina. Neither
Salvation Army unit served this county.
Captains Tim and Bethany Delaney, commanding officers in Hickory, were willing to
take on the ministry of this facility through their Boone outpost. To expedite a response to
such a late request, divisional headquarters purchased the address books and Captain
Bethany Delaney and Boone Outpost Director Jeff Jones presented them to Chaplain
Hendren in time for Christmas.
In Matthew 25:35 we read, "I was in prison and you came to visit Me." Captains
Delaney did this, but not just for Christmas last; The Army in Hickory is expanding
its ministry to this facility for other services throughout the year. The request for
address books has produced a new avenue of ministry and is a reminder: God often
uses small and simple things to make a marvelous impact for His glory!
Major Becky Gagn� serves on the staff of the North & South Carolina Division.
18
The War Cry | FEBRUARY 2016
The Little
Address Books
by MAJOR BECKY GAGN�
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