While there we sorted through shoeboxes, making sure that each one was appropriate for the age group that they were designated for, and that they were full of delightful surprises. Then we geared up to begin the delivery process.
At each location where we did a distribution, we would first sing Christmas carols, have a drama about the true meaning of Christmas and also give everyone the opportunity to ask Jesus into their hearts. This is, of course, the most important aspect of the trip, because, while it is wonderful to give the gifts to the children and to meet that practical need, the absolute most important and special gift that anyone could ever be given is Jesus! It does not matter how much humanitarian aid we give, if we don't share God's love and the hope that He gives, it will never be enough.
After the presentation we would line the children up, one line for boys and one for girls. Our boxes were sorted based on gender and age. As each child passed through the line they were met with one of our missionaries, who asked them their age, and led them to where another missionary would hand them their gift. It was an amazing time of sharing in love and laughter with the children. It was also wonderful to be able to genuinely tell the parents that God loves them as they would look at us with eyes full of gratitude for the gift given to their child.
When we went to the hospital, we delivered the gifts to the rooms of the children. Iris, Natalia and I were able to go into the Nursery where all the newborn babies were and help put their presents underneath their incubators and then pray for them. That was very special.
This was an extraordinary trip. God did great things! I love to see how He works! We were able to give over 4,000 shoebox gifts to children! Plus, and this is the most exciting news, over 2,000 people asked Jesus to be their Lord and Savior! YAY! God is so good and I am so thankful that He uses people like me!
So this holiday season, I want to encourage you to remember that it truly is better to give than to receive, and the very best gift that you can give is JESUS!
Merry Christmas!
Sorting Shoeboxes.
The church was packed with over 1,000 children plus parents.
With a little village girl.
A girl asking Jesus into her heart :)
Taking a young boy though the line to receive his gift.
Natalia delivering gifts to babies in the hospital.
A little girl praying at the hospital.
Village children.
Presenting the drama.
A village girl.
