Lafayette welcomed the “Chick-Fil-A Eight” as they have been nicknamed, two days ago from Dayton, Ohio.
A franchise owner of two Dayton suburban locations took Chick- Fil-A’s official corporate mission statement to an entirely new level.
“To glorify God by being a faithful steward of all that is entrusted to us. To have a positive influence on all who come in contact with Chick-Fil-A.”
As her Miamisberg location, the nations top performing location in 2015, undergoes expansion renovation, her employees were given the opportunity to earn their normal wages while serving flood diaster victims here in Lafayette.
A team of 8 workers, including Dayton training director Samantha drove 14 hours Wednesday to serve while their shop’s reopening date was pushed back. Ranging in age from 18-23 years old, the team of 8 joined leader Bob for the most difficult job assignment in this area to date.
The homeowner is a recently widowed man living with his pregnant daughter and son as well as his granddaughter age 3. Next to his home is his machine shop where he makes his living. This property is still under water and the devastation has compounded leaving homeowner utterly hopeless.
Enter Samaritan’s Purse team of 17, including the “Chick-Fil-A Eight”.
Amidst the debris, festering mold spores, and dampened memories rested an American flag, soaked in standing flood water.
Dylan, a recently injured U.S. Marine now working full time for the Chick- Fil-A franchise outside of Dayton, respectfully folded the flag with coworker Brittin and presented it to the broken-hearted homeowner’s son, Trey, in a solemn moment at the end of the day.
Not only had Trey recently lost his mother, now his home and life as he knew it had been washed away in the flood.
The team will return to the site again today to continue the work as well as bring light, hope, and the message of the Gospel to this family hurting from life’s tumultuous storms.
This morning’s group devotional called us to ponder the reason for our volunteerism. To consider the states of our hearts. Are we here for our own plans, or are we woven into the tapestry of Lafayette for a purpose much larger than our current understanding?
The longer I stay here, the clearer that bigger purpose has become. It is in these moments of deep connection with humanity that we contemplate our true, meaningful existence on Earth. These times of trials are Faith’s most glorious chance for refinement and reinvigoration.
I have fallen in love with the people of Louisiana, and Lafayette in particular is making what will soon become an indelible mark on my heart.
These are the moments I live for and I am on my knees in humble gratitude for God stirring my heart to come.
He always knows just what we need, right when we need it.
“For I know the plans I have for You declares the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ” – Jermiah 29:11
May the floods in your life remind you of what needed to be washed away, so that new beginnings may take root.
Share your thoughts in the comments if Louisiana has touched you in any way. We learn from each other and take comfort knowing we are not alone in this life.
Stand in love, ❤️
Jen
@standinlovejen
Jennifer DeBough Miller
Stand In Love 
I’m in awe of your gift of expressing your thoughts in word! Such a gift!
Also you’re smile is infectious!
Blessing to have served with you!
Peace and love always,
Delaine
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It was a pleasure serving alongside you and your beautiful daughter Taryn! Hope to see you again soon!
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