We just finished packing boxes for Operation Christmas Child (Samaritan’s Purse) at church. Last year we packed 400 boxes and this year we are hoping to do the same amount. I wanted to post a blog from Amy’s cousin, Cheryl.
She has a great story that I would encourage you to read.
The Power of a Simple Gift
Three years ago, on a mission trip to Tamale, in Northern Ghana, I was literally dropped off at the doorstep of World Vision. Formal introductions were made and then an incredible discovery! At that very time, World Vision was partnering with Operation Christmas Child (Samaritan’s Purse) to deliver almost 2,000 shoe boxes to children in rural African villages and I was invited to join them! It was one of the most incredible experiences of my life.
There were 3 truckloads just like this that went to each village.
This little girl was too shy and afraid to ask for a box from the white woman who visited her village, so the headmaster of the school encouraged her.
Operation Christmas Child holds a very dear place in my heart because not only do they show God’s love by giving gifts to children in desperate situations all over the world, they share the Good News of Jesus with every child that receives a box. They do this in different ways, but the most effective way is by giving them a small, culturally relevant booklet in their heart language called The Good News.
World Vision staff, along with my dear friend, Grace Brew, directed the program.
The line became longer and longer…..and there were never enough shoe boxes!! I remember looking up and seeing the line and then looking down and seeing the empty cardboard box in front of me. It is a moment frozen in time. I will never ever get that image out of my mind.
These children patiently waited in line for over 3 hours
