The number one thing on my list was to pack our shoeboxes. Since working with Operation Christmas Child back in 2009, and seeing the joy that one gift brings to a child in need... there will not be a year that goes by that I won't pack a shoebox. This project reminds me of a set of verses in the bible, Mark 10:13-16. "People were bringing little children to Jesus to have him touch them, but the disciples rebuked them. When Jesus saw this, he was indignant. He said to them, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.' And he took the children in his arms, put his hands on them and blessed them."
One shoebox. One child. One God. Never underestimate the power of our creator. This project helps bring a child that one moment of joy, that many of us experience every Christmas. It is a time where this child forgets the worries of reality and poverty, and gets to be a CHILD. More importantly, it provides the opportunity for a child to have everlasting joy through Christ. Needless to say, I truly believe in the mission of OCC.
On Saturday, Matt and I dug out our old shoeboxes that we have saved, pulled out supplies we have collected over the year, and headed to the Dollar Store for some extra goodies. Leave it to my husband to make sure their dental hygiene is covered!
Thank you for what you do.
How fun! I am packing a shoebox with some moms this year for the first time! What items do you recommend?
ReplyDeleteHey sis! First, decide what age group you will be packing your box (2-4, 5-9, or 10-14) and choose a boy or girl. And get supplies based on age group - school supplies(paper, crayons, markers, pencils, ruler, scissors, calculator); candy (has to be hard candy - the LOVE this - pref. put it in a ziploc bag - "smarties" are a good idea); hygiene items - washcloths, bar soap (NO liquid items), toothpaste, toothbrush, floss; toys/games - depending on age - barbie doll, stuffed animal, balls, puzzels, (any little things from the dollar store); clothes - beanie, socks, shoes/flipflops, tshirt, etc.
ReplyDeleteThe most important thing is to include a letter - even put your mailing address, you might get a response back. You could put a pick of the Holdridge family as well.
After you finish packing make sure you pray for the shoebox. Honestly, that is the most important.
HAVE FUN! It would be a good experience for Grace to pick out a toy for that boy/girl and explain it is for someone else that doesn't have anything.
We packed our shoeboxes this week at MOPS and it was so much fun!! I told the whole MOPS group that my sister worked for OCC and she said to include a letter in the box from us. So all the moms wrote a letter to put in their boxes. Thanks for the tip sis! These kids will be so blessed. OCC is a very special ministry!
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