Martin Luther Church has been very busy with one mission project after another this fall. Operation Christmas Child was our focus for October 9 to November 13. Operation Christmas Child was started over 20 years ago by Samaritan’s Purse – a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization led by Franklin Graham. This is MLC’s second year of participation.
From our youngest to our oldest members, shoebox gifts were packed to be a blessing to children in need around the world. What’s in a box? A “wow” item such as a doll, soccer ball with pump, stuffed animal, or a small toy is suggested. Hygiene items, school supplies, and wearable items such as flip-flops, t-shirts, hats, etc. fill up the box. It truly is astounding how many thoughtful items can be used to fill those boxes! Our goal was met and broken when a total of 78 boxes as well as donations for all shipping were donated! On November 13, Pastor Ken Tubbesing led a prayer and blessing for those who would be receiving the boxes.
Our boxes were then taken to Tecumseh, NE which was our nearest collection point. From there they were taken to a processing center where thousands of volunteers prepare them for international shipping.
The shoeboxes will travel to children in over 100 countries where their distribution results in evangelism and discipleship. Pastors and trained volunteers host the shoebox distributions in places where people may not know Christ or as resources for outreach in orphanages and other at-risk areas. “The Greatest Gift” a Gospel story booklet developed for shoebox recipients by Samaritan’s Purse is distributed with the shoeboxes. Boys and girls across the globe have an opportunity to learn about Jesus.
Kindness and caring at MLC – inspired by Jesus, our Lord – resulting in great joy!