Project 41 - The Story Behind the Mission

Growing up, faith wasn’t exactly a centerpiece for either of my parents. God wasn’t talked about much, if at all. My mom would simply say, “God is in your heart, you can talk to Him whenever you want…but church isn’t necessary.” My dad on the other hand, had a knack for mocking anyone who openly shared their faith openly. I can’t still hear him calling them “Bible Thumpers,” sometimes even hitting me on the forehead with the palm of his hand, yelling “HEAL!” It was never malicious, but it planted seeds of curiosity and embarrassment for wanting to find something deeper in my heart. 

Fast forward a few decades, a husband, a few different states, and some kids later, and life looked very different. My husband and I decided we wanted faith to be a central part of our family. We wanted something bigger than ourselves to guide us - a foundation built on truth and hope. That decision led me to dive head first into the Bible and begin building a real relationship with God, not just for me but for my family. 

Not long after learning just how little I knew about God and what faith really was, life threw us one of those curveballs you can’t truly prepare for. In a timespan of less than two years, my husband needed spinal fusion surgery on three levels of his lower spine and 3 levels of discs needed replaced in his neck. Not only those surgeries were necessary, but he also had to have half of his thyroid removed due to cancer. The neck and back injuries were part of those gifts from the military that keeps on giving. Our savings evaporated in what felt like seconds, and by the end of each month, there were easily more bills than income. One afternoon, overwhelmed and exhausted, I found myself alone in my office, clutching my Bible with tears running down my face. I prayed harder than I had in a long time, begging God for a sign. I needed reassurance that He was with me and that our family would somehow get through this stormy season. 

Later that day, something incredible happened. A woman I barely knew, someone I occasionally greeted on my way into work, knocked on my office door. She handed me an envelope with a card inside and said, “God told me to give this to you.” At first, I assumed it was a kind note - just some words of encouragement. But when I opened it, I found $41 tucked inside. 

I was stunned. I hadn’t told anyone about the details of our financial struggles, let alone this woman. I walked to her desk and tried to give the money back, telling her I couldn’t accept it, even though I deeply appreciated the gesture. She looked me straight in the eyes and said, “Lora, never turn down a blessing.”

I returned to my office, overwhelmed with gratitude, whispering, “Thank you Jesus,” as tears streamed down my face, once again. That evening, I told my husband what had happened. He smiled and reminded me “God is always prepared.”

Later, we needed to run an errand, and as we stopped to get gas, I told my husband to fill up the tank. I’d figure out the financial part later. I’d been avoiding our budget, afraid to see how bad things were, but something nudged me to check. As I opened our budgeting app, the amount we were over budget stood out like a flashing neon sign: exactly $41!

In that moment, I realized two things. First, God’s provision is always right on time, especially when it feels like we are at the end of our rope. Second, random acts of kindness can ripple into someone’s life in ways we'll never fully understand. That woman’s simple act of obedience to God’s nudge didn’t just fill a gas tank, it redeemed my faith in God’s ability to provide, even in the smallest details. 

That moment shaped the mission of Redeemed South Carolina, LLC. It’s why every purchase from my shop is more than just a transaction, it’s a chance to pass on that same kindness and faith. Because sometimes, it’s the smallest gestures that carry the biggest impact. 

Never underestimate the power of your faith, your generosity, or your obedience to that little voice telling you to help or say “hello” to a complete stranger. Together, we can make a difference - one purchase, one small act of kindness at a time. 

I truly believe that we were all made for more.