Serving with Cheer

As the room began to fill with toys, books, games, clothing, and household items, our hearts overflowed with thankfulness.  We weren’t sure if we were going to have enough items for our Rummage Outreach but God tremendously provided over and above all that we had asked.  The generosity of churches, acquaintances, and friends of the Bible school was overwhelming.  We were grateful too for all those “behind the scene items” such as wrapping paper and tape, hot chocolate and cookies, paints, colors, and crafts; and also the important donation of TIME!

This was the second year that the school had hosted the Rummage Outreach.  Only new and gently used items were displayed.  Invitations were given to the communities around us to come and choose gifts that they would like to give to family members at Christmastime.   We also provided a wide range of “interest” areas this year – a snack area to relax and visit and to enjoy cookies and hot chocolate – a craft center for children to make Christmas ornaments – areas for coloring pictures or to get your face painted – and  an area for those special family photos.  There were also New Testaments and tracts that were handed out to each family who came to “shop”.  It was a lot of work, … but fun too; and had proven to be a good outreach for the school.

The generosity of others had blessed us in hosting this event and had given us the opportunity to visit and get to know the community around us.   A few that came to the Rummage shared that it had been a hard year financially – and that this event had provided a little Christmas for them and their children.  Throughout the afternoon, as I overheard the words, “thank you” my mind and heart was tuned to HIM, who gave HIS only Son … HIS precious gift … to a lost and dying world.  How thankful I am that HE came for me … and you!