#DATC2024 closes with Reverend Lamar Hardwick preaching, as he borrows from Paul’s language in 1 Thessalonians 1:1-3 as a means to speak on behalf of board of Key Ministry, and on behalf of those disabled, to give thanks for those working in disability. First for their work of “faith” or deep conviction not only or the dignity of all people, but also for the power of the story of Jesus. If Jesus would die for everybody, then there are no nobodies. Everyone is someone to Jesus.

Second, thank you for your loving deeds… or labor of love. A self-denying, sometimes suffering, and selfless love for others that have been push on the margins.

Finally thank you for your enduring hope. Paul draws from a phrase similar to confidence, or a hope that has been tested. Hardwick notes the persistent, week after week, disability ministry that has been tested.

Faithful work, loving deeds, and a hope that has been tested. A fitting testimony for those present, as Pastor Hardwick prays and blesses “these your servants” in disability ministry.