Jarboe is this sleepy one-way street right in the midst of the wild Westport neighborhood and the beautiful Plaza. I lived in my sweet little home for just over two years, and last month I packed everything and said goodbye.
To begin the moving process, I held a Moving Sale. As much as the sale was a fundraiser for the Race, this was my opportunity to let go and make my load lighter, so I can follow God’s plan without anything weighing me down.
My Mom came to Kansas City, and we cleaned, organized, and created an adorable little boutique inside my house. I made signs, we baked chocolate chip cookies, and put everything on display to show off the best items. Then, we were open for business.
Friday morning, I sat at the front door waiting for the first customer, heart pounding, “What if no one comes? What if I dont sell anything?” Silly worries running through my head. I’m sure Mom could see me quietly fretting, and she said, “Lets pray.” Instantly, those worries vanished from my mind and were replaced with a peace that only comes from our heavenly Father. Next thing I know, our first customer carefully walked up the precarious steps to my front door. “Hello! What do you have for sale?” She strolled from item to item exclaiming, “Oh, this is so lovely. I need to get my Mom to buy this! Oh this is just so great!”
Yes, this sale was going to be a success!
After our first customer, a constant flow of treasure hunters stopped by the sale. Each one had a story to tell. If I could write a book about the tales of Jarboe St., I’d tell the story of the young couple moving into a new place who needs patio furniture, and the Turkish man stocking up on kitchen gadgets who drives a liberal chick magnet (aka a red Prius). Then, my book would share the story of the Japanese couple that loves to barter (and only speaks Japanese). I’d also include the fellow who bought the purple wig for his friend Rita, the elderly gentleman who fell in love with a pumpkin-shaped casserole dish, and the Vietnam Vet who loaded up on books and shared stories of his time in the service. Of course, I’d share the story of the sweet, pregnant bus driver (adorable 2-year-old on her hip) who loves God and took home bags full of clothes. Oh, I cant forget the super-hip advertising execs from the Plaza, dressed in all black, thick rimmed glasses, and oozing cool. Upon entering the house, they declared, “Your signs are amazing! We had to stop to see what you’re selling.” They even bought a few picture frames!
So many friends stopped by the sale too! What a blessing to soak up their love and support! Oh the smiles, the laughter, and the joy of each day…I bet you wish you were there too!
At the end of day two, only one load of Goodwill donations were left at the house. Seriously, how did that happen? Everything was sold! God blessed the sale beyond what I ever imagined or anticipated. “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20). God exceeded all of my expectations! When I think back on my prayer with my Mom at the beginning of the first day, we asked God to bless our customers. I love knowing that my little belongings will bring God’s peace and joy to the lives of their new owners.
With each step of preparation for the Race, I stand in awe of God’s faithfulness as he constantly keeps His promises to “supply all my needs” (Philippians 4:19).
Here’s to letting go, trusting the Lord, and feeling free!
Love Love Love
Kate
