January 28, 2014

Service is a topic that rattles around in my head quite frequently.  I often wonder what we can do as a family to serve others, bringing the love of Christ to the world.  I have come to the realization that my primary service is to my family, which is no small calling even if it seems to be limited inside the walls of our home.  In a world that screams to "do more" I believe that where we are at right now cries out for a "no."  This is difficult for me, a doer.  While we have grand dreams for serving more at some point in life, I am assured that our family is using our gifts in beneficial ways right now.  We are raising little souls for His glory, opening up our home and oven in hospitality, and providing opportunities for further education with other homeschoolers.

Today we did have a unique opportunity to serve as a family.  A friend and her family toured a homeless shelter here in town a while back.  As they were driving home and talking about what they witnessed, one of her children asked if the kids at the shelter get a birthday cake on their birthday.  (Hmm... innocent question but telling in what is important to a child.)  She said she didn't know, but would find out.  That started the ball rolling for their birthday cake ministry.  She gets a list of all the kids at the shelter for the coming month, with their gender and birthdate listed.  Then her family bakes and decorates a cake to deliver to the mission on said birthday.  This has turned in to quite an undertaking and kept them very busy.  She asked a couple more families if they'd be interested in helping out when they need backup.  Yes, we would!  We contributed our second cake today.  Madeline loves to bake, so she baked up the cake, whipped up some frosting, and we all decorated.  Include a birthday card with an encouraging message, and we have hopefully helped make someone who is going through a hard time day's a little brighter.