A surprise "Unbirthday Party" Visit for children at Acres of Hope
I've always looked at community service as an obligation, not an option. If you have the ability to pay for internet to read this, food to fill your tummies, or a car to take you to a job, you are among the wealthiest Americans. Can you imagine 1.5 million children going to sleep each year without a bed of their own...and that is just in America! These children didn't choose to be born into poverty, but they are more likely to grow up to be adults that experience some degree of homelessness without the life lessons and teachings of parents from a higher socio-economic status. Now imagine how wonderful it would feel to know that YOU made a difference to a child's life who is experiencing some degree of homelessness, hunger or poverty.
Last weekend, I was so lucky to be welcomed into Acres of Hope, a faith based renwal center for homeless women and their sweet little kidlets. It is incredible to see these proactive Mothers taking a stand against the patterns their lives have set infront of them and following God's will for their lives. They are taking control of their lives with the help of this fabulous safe haven, where they learn how to be thriving members of society and able Mothers. I am so proud of places like this who say no to the evils of society and put God's plan into motion for children that may otherwise have never known that they are sons and daughters of a gracious and abundant God. The Momma's get their educations, learn parenting and life skills, and discover a deep and true relationship of forgiveness and peace in Christ. The children are just ready and deserving of any spoiling possible! They are so sweet, and grateful, and FULL of joy. When Cinderella and Tinker Bell walked into the room the shock and glee on their faces was so overwhelming. These kids...and their Moms, have been admiring these characters for years or even decades, and here they were, all the way from Disneyland to meet THEM! These families have never been able to go to Disneyland, and it seemed as if their favorite part of Disneyland had come to them. This was a magical day for Makaela Kasper (Tink) and I. We got to do face painting, singing, have unbirthday cake, eat Campelli's Pizza, and give them wonderful gifts donated by Childrens Orchard. The best part of all was ending with a children's devotional...a quick message about taking the lesson's God has given us and using them to become stronger people.
It was a very special day for us, and I encourage you to choose a gift that you have been given and find a way to use it to bring a sparkle to a child's day. At places like Acres, even paper towels and plates are a huge blessing! They are more than welcoming of any and all visitors, so grab a bag of goodies from the dollar store and head up the hill...or arrange a night to provide dinner! And I am excited to say that these women will - most likely - be joining us at Bayside West on September 23rd to serve as we host The Gathering Inn You are all welcome to come as we serve these homeless families as well. What a beautiful God we serve, to be transforming the served into the servants in His love <3
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