In the 1980’s Franklin Graham visited our ministry in the Philippines for several days, especially in his role as president of Samaritan’s Purse.
While taking him to the airport after his very successful visit, he said “You know Doug, I have been all over the world and visited many countries and have ridden in every kind of vehicle imaginable, however, I must say, this car of yours is the worst vehicle I have ever been in! Where did you get this thing?”
We laughed together as I told him of occasions when the steering wheel came off, the gear shift slipped out, tires fell off, and other horror stories.
At the airport, he said, “Doug, joking aside, I would like to mention something; I feel you are working your people too hard.”
At that time, we had about 160 dedicated Filipino team members working alongside 30 of our ACTION missionaries. I responded, “Yes, they do work hard and are a very dedicated group.”
He then asked, “When was the last time you took your team on a break?” I answered, “A what?” He replied, “A break, a retreat, a time of fellowship and refreshment.” I answered, “We have never had one of those.”
He then reached into his pocket and pulled out 20 one hundred-dollar bills ($2000). (The purchasing power of that gift was five to seven times more than it is now.).
As he handed me the $2000 he said, “Take your team for a break as a gift from Samaritan’s Purse,” and we did.
We took the whole team, including their families, for a three-day retreat. We had a wonderful time studying the Word of God, enjoying fellowship, praying, resting, eating large meals and playing, all to the glory of God!
(After the retreat was over, we had funds left over which helped our evangelism ministry immensely).
