Good morning…
I was delighted to receive the photo above from LaTonya Gates, founder and director of PAWkids, a vibrant non-profit in downtown Atlanta.
“Let the ladies know THEY blessed her greatly,” LaTonya texted yesterday from Krakow, Poland, where our written word ministry helped support her trip to deliver Crates for Ukraine. Last Saturday, before LaTonya left for her five day mission trip, the Spirit spurred me to go to the bank and, with the final bit of the funds we collectively donated, I got an envelop of $20 bills for LaTonya to hand out to anyone she saw in need, bringing Christ’s tangible love to our brothers and sisters across the globe. “THIS IS TRULY GOD SENT!” her text concluded.
“So so wonderful,” I replied. “I absolutely can’t wait to hear this beautiful woman’s story.”
When we deepen down into God, right here and right now, the living Christ mysteriously spreads out through us. Truly, truly, truly, the healing presence of the living Christ is the best gift we will ever bring to this hurting world.
Through us, he brings knowledge of Christ. Everywhere we go, people breathe in the exquisite fragrance. Because of Christ, we give off a sweet scent rising to God, which is recognized by those on the way of salvation—an aroma redolent with life (2 Corinthians 2:14-15, MSG).
…Sue…
P.S. Together we have been learning about the gift of our empty space, the little chapel in our heart with a wide open window. “It is also true that our emptiness provides a very large and sacred space where we can welcome all the people of the world,” wrote Henri Nouwen this week. “There is a powerful connection between our emptiness and our ability to welcome. When we give up what sets us apart from others – not just property but also opinions, prejudices, judgements, and mental preoccupations – then we have room within to welcome friends as well as enemies.”
I enjoy envisioning LaTonya emptying out our envelop of $20 bills, breathing with all the exquisite love of the living Christ.
