MAKE ME A SERVANT (2/2/12)

"The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me."

There are many things that a sixth grader would enjoy doing on a Saturday, like hanging out with friends, going to the mall, playing sports, attending a movie, etc.   However, how would you respond if your sixth grader asked you if he/she could spend an entire Saturday in February living outdoors in a cardboard box?

A few weeks ago, our 6th grade DI team requested a meeting with me and presented a proposal for their DI Project Outreach Challenge. The entire team was extremely excited with their decision to help homeless children. During their research, they learned about Covenant House, a faith-based nonprofit organization located in Detroit that provides shelter to homeless youth ages 13 - 22. Their hearts were touched to learn that over 35,069 youth have been served by CHM since its inception in September 1997.

As this team pursued their research, God just placed a passion on their hearts to help these children. As they brainstormed ways to assist this program, the team decided that they would spend this Saturday, February 4th, from noon until 8:00 p.m., as if they were homeless. Their meals will replicate the same menu that a soup kitchen would provide, and their shelter would be only a cardboard box in the St. Matthew parking lot.

This DI team is seeking donors who are willing to contribute a financial gift that will be designated for Covenant House for their time spent living in these conditions. Donations can be given this week during 8:00 - 8:20 a.m. to the DI team member waiting in the school office, or placed in the team's display located by the gym doors. Checks can be made payable to St. Matthew.  All donations will be sent to Covenant House.

As our church and school embrace the "Outflow" campaign that encourages us to intentionally find ways share the love of Christ with others, these sixth graders are a wonderful example of Jesus' heart and compassion for those who are less fortunate.

Have a wonderful week finding ways in which you can share His love.

In Jesus,

Mrs. Palka