Heart Story by Deana Smith

Former Congressman J.C. Watts

Vernon and Deana Smith

It's always such a delight to have lunch at A Spot For Tea and the women were excited to be going there for our monthly Let's Do Lunch sponsored by our Women's Ministries. Mary Roy arrived early and Mary saw that there was one woman sitting alone at a table. That could not be! She immediately introduced herself and invited her to join our group for lunch. The woman seemed happy (and relieved) to accept the invitation.



After all the introductions, she told us that she had been to the doctor that day and was concerned about the results of some tests. Also, her husband was starting a new business venture and their family would be moving to the Washington, D.C. area.



It was obvious that this was not a casual meeting - it was planned by God for us to offer her encouragement, companionship, and most of all, time to gather around and pray for her. What an awesome experience! We had met and prayed with a new friend, had offered her company and encouragement during her time of need. We, in turn had been blessed by her kind and sweet demeanor.



Several in the group were trying to figure out a gracious way to pay for her lunch but before one of us could make an exit to the cashier, she announced that, regretfully, she had to leave. We had missed our opportunity!



Tammy approached our table with what we thought would be the tab for our lunch and everyone began reaching for their purses. Were we ever surprised when she told us that our guest had not only paid for our lunches (17 women) but she also had included the tip!



Our angel and new found friend was Frankie Watts, the wife of former Congressman J.C. Watts. It is wonderful the many ways God blesses us when we reach out to others in love!



A Special Note: This happened during our first year of business. It served as a sign to us that our calling was to minister to people, and offer an atmosphere to allow people to minister to each other. We still believe it today, almost 6 years later.



1 John 2:10 "Whoever loves his brother lives in the light."