I think of so many things to blog about throughout the day, but then when I sit down to do it, my mind goes blank! But today I want to write about the ministry that is so close to my heart...Compassion International.
Last night the pastor from the new church we have been attending came over to our house to get to know us better, answer our questions, talk about membership, etc. I mentioned that I was an advocate for Compassion and right away he said, "I love Compassion because it the most practical way to do missions...it is a hands-on opportunity." And he is so right.
When I'm doing presentations, I always say that now that I am a parent, I have this undescribable urge and desire to protect and provide for my children. I am so thankful that I live in a country where I have so many choices and opportunities to do this. That's the only difference between me and a parent in a developing country. They don't love their children less than we do...they just lack opportunities. And that's what Compassion is about...providing the opportunity for hope.
I know that sponsorship works because I've been doing it for so long. I have the relationships to prove it. In addition to the children we sponsor financially, I correspond with 5 more children. Each one writes and thanks me for being their sponsor...honestly, they don't care where the money comes from. They care about having someone who will write to them and pray for them, encourage them and love them.
I received a letter last week from Hondy, one of the children I correspond with. He wrote, "I ask you to pray for us because my little brother died with only 19 days old and we are very sad." I'm sure they aren't just sad, I'm sure those parents are heartbroken. I know I am and I hardly know them.
Take a few minutes today to either watch one of the Compassion video clips I have on the side bar, visit Compassion's website or read Compassion's blog. All the links are in the side column. You might think it will be depressing or too sad, but look at it through the eyes of hope. Our small monthly contribution really can change the life of one child. And Compassion is changing the world, one child at a time.
http://www.compassion.com/jillfoley
Thanks so much for opening my eyes to Compassion and the ways I can get involved. Keep up your good work!
ReplyDeleteAnd great new style and colors! If you want I can change the color of the header title to be that teal to match, although the pink is a cool contrast too. Whatever you think!