The auction for the Fountain of Hope painting by artist Stacey Howell ended in November. A long-time hunting partner and co-worker of Ed Henrick's purchased the painting.

I carried the painting from North Carolina to Oregon via a hanging bag, which I was able to stow away in the overhead bins thanks to that first-class ticket God kept providing. (I've offered to carry Stacey's art anywhere she'd like from now on).

I met the benefactor, who didn't want to be identified, at a bakery in Bend, Ore. I was late because I went to the wrong bakery. Not only can I not get directions right when I drive, I can't get them right when other people are doing the driving, in this case, daughter Konnie, who was named for Connie Henricks.

Tim, Jon, Konnie and I met with Mr. Benefactor.

Our visit was brief, owing to the fact that daylight was drawing to a close and Konnie and Jon wanted me to see the house they were buying. But Mr. Benefactor promised to send me photos of Connie with Stacey's painting.

And as you can see, he kept his promise. Here's what he had to say about it:

We had a delightful visit with Connie and family.  She graciously accepted the painting and emotionally thanked all who were so thoughtful to make it happen.   

Mr. Benefactor isn't a man of many words.

I spoke to Connie just moments after Mr. B left her place. I had thought he was going over that evening so I didn't know I was calling within moments of her getting the painting. She told me she had just sent a note off to Stacey and cc'd me in on it. Here's part of her note:

Oh Stacie, I have just seen "The Fountain of Hope" in person. It is
beautiful! The fountain water bubbles up with Hope and Joy right off the
canvas. It is magnificent and I am so blessed by your God given artistic
talent and your Christ like generous heart which you have shared with us.

One of Ed's hunting partners and long time friend came to visit this morning so that we could visit with his daughter who has been living in Pakistan. We had a delightful visit, hearing all about God's gracious love and care to her.  She brought some traditional Pakistani Chai tea and cookies, photos of life there, and wonderful stories.

Just as we were finishing our visit, he brought a big bag from the car. I was astonished and thrilled as he uncovered "The Fountain of Hope" right here in my own living room. It is even more stunning in person! We all discussed the beauty of the painting, your abilities, and the heart of your desire to paint it. We were all blessed!

Our hearts are overflowing with gratitude and blessing that he would buy it and then, he knocked our socks right off and said it was for us to keep. I am so overwhelmed with the love of God delivered. Even more astonishing is the envelope he left with Ed, filled with 100 dollar bills. If you could see me now you would notice that I am floating in a pool of humble tears and filled with irrepressible gratitude.

May God's hand of grace continue to be administered to you dear Stacie and to other's, through you, for His glory and honor. There is nothing more rewarding than to know that one has been used by God Almighty for His grand and eternal purpose. You have done just that and inspire me to abide in Him more fully so as to also be a channel of His grace and purpose.

Victoria and our 19 year old son, Edward, were here and they have been
eternally blessed and moved also. Before our friends even pulled out of our
driveway we decided where our honored painting will be hung. It will be in
a prominent place in the living room, visible from the entry way where
everyone who enters can see and hear of God's provision and blessing.

With love, prayer, and hearts overwhelmed,
Connie and Ed Henricks

Stacey called as I was speaking to Connie. She had just received the email and left me a voice message that said, "I just needed to talk to someone who knows Connie and what a blessing she is."

When I called her back, Stacey said that Connie's email had been such a blessing to her that she couldn't possibly answer it, not yet.

Another friend, author Janis Owens, that I shared this story & photo with had this to say:

 "Their faces are so full of love and grace that it really does make me teary. Bless them."

Please keep the Henricks family in your prayers as Ed continues to look for a new job, and as Connie continues her regime of chemotherapy.

The real Fountain of Hope lies in the community of friendships that we form. As the old song goes, Blessed be the tie that binds ...