Letters From Grandpa #78

• LETTERS FROM GRANDPA
• 78

Dearest Grandchild,

In last week’s letter I told you about a young woman who found a ministry in Africa. Today let us consider four young people who found a ministry right here at home. Their ministry is called “Bundles of Hope”. Here is a brief video to tell you about it.

http://www.fourstateshomepage.com/news/bundles-of-hope

The young man in the video was only three when, as a foster child, he was placed forcefully in the back seat of a car. Suddenly, he was taken away from the only security he knew. He had nothing with him. He was taken by a stranger. He had no idea where he was going or what would happen to him. He still has haunting memories of that day. The fear and uncertainty that gripped him made a lasting impression on his mind.

Now, he and three others, are providing “Bundles of Hope” for hundreds of foster children. Now, when a case worker forcefully places a child in the back seat of a car, that boy or girl is given a little bundle of hope. It contains color books, snacks, toys, and other things that help to distract from sadness and bring hope. When that boy or girl arrives at their new foster home, that too can be a frightening experience. So another bundle of hope is given to them there. This one has simple, but necessary things they can call their own. Things like a tooth brush, tooth paste, a blanket, pajamas, a stuffed toy, and other items to help bring hope in a difficult time of transition. Of course, the clothing has to be the correct size and the toys need to be age appropriate.

None of this happens by accident. These four, and a team of volunteers, already pack and deliver these bundles of hope to agencies in eight different counties. Since the need is great, the ministry is growing.

The “Golden Rule” teaches us to love someone else in the way we would want to be loved. Because these four young people are adopted, they can more easily relate to others who have lost their families. One of their new outreaches involves foster children from ages 18 - 21. These older children are leaving foster care to make it on their own. At the present time their bundle of hope includes a hundred dollars worth of pots and pans, dishes, and others items necessary to start keeping house on their own.

As we said, this ministry does not just happen. It requires lots of sacrifice and work. The young man in the video said that the ministry was spreading a like a wild fire. Nobody, of course, knows just where and how far a wild fire will go. No wonder U.S. Cellular was so impressed that they gave these Christian kids a $10,000 grant.

These four presented a program at our church recently, and one of the girls stressed several times that this is the way Christ is leading them, but not necessarily the way he will lead you. You may see other needs and have a totally different calling. Every branch, of course, must bear some

fruit or it will be broken off and cast into the fire.

The Bible word for “gift” is “charisma”. The root of that word is “cara” which means “joy”. When you use our spiritual gift it will bring you joy. This kids are finding lasting fulfillment in helping others. Truly it is more blessed to give, than to receive.

Some years ago Granny and I went to a suburb of Mexico City and where we happened to meet a young missionary from California. He showed us where a 14 year old convert to Christ was killed by gang members. He told of his own personal struggle to do something to help others. He confessed his sadness of being in constant competition with other churches to see who could have the biggest pizza party or the best ski trip. He felt that he has pandering to the selfish whims of young people, instead of challenging them to do follow the example of Christ and help others.

The night before Jesus died He went into the upper room to eat the Passover with His disciples. In those days it was a custom to welcome guests by washing their feet. The wash basin and towel were in plain sight, but no one thought of using them but Jesus.

Surely something good needs you right where you are! When you see that need through the eyes of Jesus, you will get busy and do something about it. Then, you too, will know the joy and fulfillment that only comes from losing yourself in service to others.

I love you,

Grandpa Boyce