Ark News

Dan Smith was my friend from childhood.  We had met when we were 4 or 5 years old and attended elementary school together.  We lost contact for a number of years, but after Dan’s salvation experience we renewed our friendship.  Dan had been John D. Reese’s right-hand man for 30 years at New Covenant Christian Fellowship. Dan was the minister of music at New Covenant.

When we started The Ark, Dan became a supporter.  A few months ago we asked him to become a member of the board.  Todd, one of Dan’s sons, told me how excited Dan was to be a part of the ministry.  Dan loved life and his family and friends.  Most of all, Dan loved the Lord.  He always had a special smile and a twinkle in his eyes. 

Dan was a man of kind heart and spiritual strength.  His kindness was demonstrated a few years ago in his willingness to use his ultra-light aircraft to search for one of my elderly neighbors who had wandered from home.  His spiritual strength was illustrated in his ability to speak at the graveside service for one of his teenaged sons.

Dan loved adventure, especially being a pilot.  When one of my elderly neighbors wandered away from his home a few years ago, Dan joined in the search by using his ultra-light aircraft.  Dan lived on the edge and died the same way as he lived.  He died in a plane crash on June 14, 2007, at the age of 62.  None of us had any idea that Dan would not be with us for years to come. 

I am reminded of the saying, “just one life will soon be past, only those things done for Jesus will last.”  Dan was a positive influence in our community. Dan had the largest crowd that I have ever seen at the funeral home and hundreds attended his funeral service.  Please join me in praying for Dan’s family.

May this be a reminder to us that we need to do now what the Lord asks us to do.  We have no assurance of tomorrow. 

The ministry at The Ark continues to increase.  In May, we were able to give away $9,000 worth of food.  We have two new men participating in the Transforming Edge residential discipleship program.  The Ark is a faith-based ministry and invites your participation.  Thanks to all who help with finances and by donating quality items for the thrift store.  The thrift store is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm.  The Ark is located at 475 W. Main St . , Dothan , AL 36301 .  Phone 334-794-7223.