We are taking a break this week from our regular home school material to focus on Thanksgiving. We have learned about the origins of Thanksgiving, we have talked about what we have to be thankful for.... you know, all the normal topics this time of year. On Monday as we talked about how God has blessed us with certain things, we began discussing how God would have us help others.
As I discussed how God would have us give to others, I explained how some people live in underdeveloped countries. We talked about all the conveniences we take for granted that other countries do not have at all. As we discussed these things, we began looking through the World Vision catalog. Most of you that read this blog probably get the World Vision Gift Catalog this time of year. We have in the past bought things like "feed a baby for a day" or "buy Bibles for a family" in honor of family members. I read each description for each item needed and encouraged the kids to pick one. The compassion and heart break they felt as they listened to what these people need was very moving. They wanted to buy everything. In the end we decided to pick four things; mosquito nets, medicine, clothes and shoes, and a rabbit. (the rabbit was Julia's pick!) We need to raise a little over $100.
We then talked about ways to raise money for the "jar". We talked about having a garage sale, selling cookies and cocoa, the kids doing extra chores and maybe even offering their help to our neighbors for donations. As we talked, Isaac got quiet and said "I'll be right back". He came back with a hand full of dollar bills and coins. He had cleaned out his piggy bank as a purely selfless act. Then Julia followed his example and did the same. Before we knew it we were already up to $9. We do have a long way to go, but it is a start. God will provide.
Isaac made me giggle a bit when in the middle of our discussion he hit the table with his hand and sternly said, "That's it. I don't want to see any presents under our Christmas tree this year" Julia looked at him like, "Whaaaaaat!" Then she said "Um, I do want a present" It was so funny!
What happened that day was one of those moments I will cherish forever. God was working in the hearts of my children. No doubt about it. May He get ALL the Glory!
1 comment:
Love that! Never too early to teach them how to serve, give, and sacrifice a little of their own. You are fabulous giving them this opportunity and they are wonderful in how they responded to that opportunity!
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