Reaping a Harvest of Joy

Since this month we are focusing on harvesting, the first harvest that comes to my mind is one of joy. With all the violence, craziness, and inflated cost of everything today…who couldn’t use a little more joy? And what can possibly instill more joy than bringing tremendous smiles and happiness to a little child…unless it could be bringing joy to millions of children around the world?

I love how Jesus valued children and said in Mark 10:14, “Let the children come to me, do not hinder them for to such belong the kingdom of God.” So, how can you combine making children around the world joyful while at the same time helping draw them to Christ’s kingdom? The answer is simple—Operation Christmas Child. This is a tremendous ministry that changes lives…and you can become a part of this process!

If you want to reap a harvest of joy and help spread Your Refreshed Life, then consider getting involved in Operation Christmas Child. Begun in 1993 by Franklin Graham and Samaritan’s Purse, Operation Christmas Child has delivered shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, and hygiene materials to over 198 million children in over 170 countries. Each shoebox also contains gospel materials and tens of thousands of volunteers from churches around the world help present the gospel at festive outreaches where children receive these gift boxes.

More than 14.9 million children since 2009 have become Christians because of the 12-lesson program on following Christ that is offered along with the delivery of the Christmas Boxes. As Franklin Graham writes, “Every box is an opportunity to reach a child with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.” Won’t you join Linda and I this year in this wonderful outreach? Maybe your family could do this…or your life group…or your office? This is the most fun you can have in an outreach!

Visit www.Samaritanspurse.org or search Operation Christmas Child for a complete list of what to include and how to get it to Samaritans Purse. The National Collection week for these boxes is November 14-21st when over 4,500 drop-off locations around thew country open to receive these gifts of love.

One year, Linda and I visited Samaritan’s Purse and were utterly amazed at the number of shoe boxes assembled…representing so much love and generosity! If you want to do more, you can volunteer to help or donate funds as well. Just contact Samaritans Purse and see how you can help, either locally or at their headquarters.