From Ruin to Restoration: God Has a Plan

For 30 days rain fell on the city of New Hamburg in southern Brazil.  Soon an earthen dam collapsed, sending millions of gallons of water through the valleys below.  The wall of water hit Luiz’s business and the apartment building where he lives with his wife and baby.  

“We saw the water rising, rising, faster and faster,” Luiz told us.  “We heard about the earthen dam.  The water hit our apartment building full force.  It was like a wave destroying everything.”  

The young family escaped their second story apartment to the safety to a relative’s house. As you can see from these photos, their food truck then sat under 10 feet of water.   

“I had this dream of setting up a cafe when I was 15.  All the jobs I had after that were to save money for that trailer.  It took 28 years for me to save enough to buy it,” Luiz said, sadly.  

When the water finally subsided after 30 days, Luiz and his wife returned to their business to assess the damage.     

“Everything was destroyed,” he said. “It was a mess.  Everything was dirty and it smelled awful. My eyes filled with tears. It was devastating to see my dream washed away.”

Luiz’s wife, Andréia, told us, with tears in her eyes, “Luiz went 45 days without working.  But he said, ‘God will provide. I don’t know how, but God will provide.’” 

Then, Luiz and his wife met Operation Blessing’s Disaster relief team.  After the flood, we handed out food, bottled water and cleaning supplies to residents hardest hit by the flood.  Thanks to YOU, we provided Luiz with new equipment and supplies, including stoves, refrigerators and other kitchen items so he could restart his business.  Luiz soon had the trailer cleaned and sanitized and within a few days they were open for business.

“I lost my business in just one day. Then Operation Blessing came with those gifts and restored it in a day.  Our hearts were beating so fast when we saw you arrive. The joy was overwhelming,” Luiz said with great gratitude.  “You are the real deal! What you do is real. And now we are fine again. Thank you.” 
 
Andréia chimed in with her heartfelt thanks: “It’s hard to put into words, but I want to say THANK YOU to everyone who supports Operation Blessing!  You are helping us to rebuild our lives. Thank you!”      
 
 

Partnering with CBN means more than just giving—you’re helping feed and clothe families, providing medical aid to those without access to hospitals and doctors, and helping provide clean water for the thirsty. Your faithful giving brings hope to the hopeless and the truth of God’s Word to millions of homes through The 700 Club! Help bring the love of Christ to the world when you become a CBN partner today!