A Servant’s Heart: Meet James Oliver

Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference. James Oliver doesn't have this problem.

James, a longtime volunteer, ensures that the metal parts which are used in welding operations are accurately drilled and reamed. This is an important task which involves, safety first, attention to detail, and the heart of a servant.

A 67-year-old, lifelong, Phenix City resident, James started out in heating and air service. Then, unexpectedly, an injury opened a door into working in a sheetmetal shop. He retired a few years ago.

James heard about the mission of Make the World Mobile from his Bible teacher at Central Baptist Church, another longtime volunteer, Gary Forrester.

James said, "I told him I was sitting at home with nothing to do most of the time and that I'd like to get out and volunteer and help someone.

"He recommended that I come here. I didn't know what it was really about until I came here. I just knew that y'all were needing some volunteers."

Excitedly, James adds, "It's a pretty good shop. I like it."

"I like the people here. It is a good Christian-based program that is helping someone else really in need. Many are in bad shape. They are not going to be whole, but helping them out through Christ and this ministry, here.

"I hope and pray that this place continues to do well and that people who receive these carts are blessed.

"I was surprised to come here and find that there were so many people involved in this.

It's actually a huge organization."

James volunteers mornings, three days a week. He invests a lot of time and effort. He gives his heart and soul to the work for someone he will never even meet.

"That's what this place is all about. It is helping others who are in need. You will probably never meet them, but there is someone out there who does care, thinking about their situations.

"What we do here, we can see what's going on and happening. We can just imagine what's happening over there, when they receive the carts and how happy they will be.

"This is one caring, loving, Christian endeavor. We here because we likes helping people.

"If someone want to volunteer or maybe donate, help out in any way you can. It's up to you," encourages James.

James is gentle, quiet-spoken man. He is loved by all who come in contact with him.

Retirement gave James time, but faith gave him a renewed calling. Through his hands and Christ’s love, mobility—and hope—is being restored for those who need it most. James stepped out of his living room and into a mission—the make the world mobile. Will you join him?