The most meaningful moments often arrive unexpectedly, yet providentially guided. That’s how I would describe my recent encounter with Christal and Randy Simpkins.
You may know part of their story from the 2010 film The Way Home, a true account of a family crisis that became a testimony of faith and redemption. In that film Dean Cain and Lori Beth (Edgeman) Sikes portrayed Randy (a pastor) and Christal. Now, the Simpkins are in Alabama working on a new project entitled End of Wait, with Dean Cain once again portraying Randy.
Their production team reached out to the church where I work, asking to use our fellowship hall and parking lot for trailers, crew parking, and catering. At first, I was inclined to say no—uncertain about the logistics and possible headache for me. But as they explained the project, they mentioned Dean Cain, Randy Simpkins, and finally, the film’s title: End of the Wait.
This title stopped me in my tracks as I immediately connected it to the End the Wait Foundation, that seeks to save 100,000 lives by inspiring people to become live kidney donors. The Foundation and vision for the film was born from Randy’s own experience of donating a kidney to someone he didn’t know, Russel Dallas. I shared with their location manager, Michael, that I had a necrotic kidney removed decades ago. Thankfully, my remaining kidney is healthy. I told him I was familiar with End the Wait and their mission.
A few days later, I received a text from Randy. Michael had shared my story with him. Randy wanted to know how I knew about the End the Wait Foundation, so I told him my story. This simple act of connection with him was a sweet serendipity for me—like a providential thread weaving our stories together.
When the crew returned on another day, I hoped I could meet Randy in person. Each time I stepped outside he was busy—on the phone or surrounded by crew members. Eventually, I texted Michael to ask if Randy might have a moment for me to meet him face-to-face and discovered that they had wrapped several hours early (an unusual occurrence). Michael suggested I go to the parking lot right then. Just as the pastor and I stepped out, we learned Randy had already left. I was disappointed that I had missed meeting him. A few moments later Michael texted that Randy hadn’t gone far and was coming back to meet me. I couldn’t believe it! How thoughtful!
I was able to meet Randy and his precious wife, Christal. We chatted briefly, and before they left, I asked if we could take a picture together.
When Christal and Randy Simpkins stepped into our church parking lot, they brought more than a production; they carried a story of sacrifice, faith, and providential timing. What began with my desire to meet Randy, turned into an encounter with Christal and Randy that left an indelible mark on my heart and reminded me that God often moves through quiet gestures and encounters. This wasn’t just about a movie. It was about connection, compassion, and the kind of mercy and grace that rewrites our ordinary days.
What You Can Do
This experience reminded me how powerful stories can be—and how they and our actions can ripple outward. Please prayerfully consider joining me in doing five things:
- Pray that End the Wait inspires people to become kidney donors and helps END THE WAIT for the 100,000 who need of a kidney.
- Prayerfully consider becoming a kidney donor.
- Pray for those awaiting a kidney transplant and their families.
- Pray for wisdom and discernment for the committees who decide how donated kidneys are allocated.
- Share this story and the link for the foundation to help raise awareness and support the mission of the End the Wait Foundation and film.
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