December 1 Planting a Seed

December 1
Planting a Seed
“I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. So neither
he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes
things grow.” 1 Corinthians 3:6
Social Work is often called the “people-helping” profession. In
contrast to other jobs, such as construction work or sales, it can be difficult
to measure progress. The work put in is not immediately apparent.
As I reflect on working with our students in PTM’s after-school
program, I am reminded that we are planting the seed in the children’s
lives. We might not always see the end result, but we need to know that we
started the conversation or showed the love that could help the students
grow and become something great. I am reminded every day that I am in a
mission field that God has called me to be a part of.
I have worked in many places with children and have become frustrated because I never see the end result of the children’s success. Many
times in the Social Work or teaching profession, we want to measure our
goals to make sure we accomplished them, but we can’t always do that in
the time that we have with the students. We only can do so much with our
time and then we have to let it go and give it to God! We have to trust that
he will take care of our students and know that he will do great things in
them because of the seed that we planted in those few hours a week that we
spend with them. Do not be discouraged if you do not see the end result.
You are helping to plant a seed in our students’ lives whether you are a volunteer, intern, or staff member. All of our tasks together go a long way in
the students’ lives where they can become who he created them to be!
Trust God and have faith in everything you do!
God, help me remember that you are the one who makes all things grow.
Thank you for letting me be a part of your work. Amen.
Contributed by Stacey Goon, UT Social Work Intern
December 2
Be Still
“Be still and know that I am God.” Psalm 46:10
It was a slightly hectic day; our site director was out for the day so
everyone was working together to fill in the gaps. As we were closing for the
day, a student was volunteered to say an ending pray for everyone. Once she
was done, I noticed another student about to be in tears. I approached him
and asked him what was wrong; he responded that he had really wanted to
pray, but he had not been chosen. In an effort to stop the meltdown before it
really began, I told him that we could pray again right there. Several of his
friends were sitting nearby and wanted to join; a few staff members also decided to kneel with us. After saying a quick prayer thanking God for bringing
him to PTM and asking God to bless PTM, the students got up to play outside with their friends. I stayed sitting on the floor for just another minute,
marveling at the beauty of this innocent prayer. This moment, which came on
a day in which we probably all needed it most, was a gentle reminder from
the Lord that He is inviting us to be still in His presence amidst the fast pace
of each day. He offers these moments to us as a gift, and I hope that you will
take this gift today to meditate on His beauty and truth.
God, thank you for the quiet moments you bring me in the midst of busyness.
May I learn to recognize them and be refreshed by your gift. Amen.
Contributed by Hannah Loftus, Lipscomb Social Work Intern
December 3
God Knows Your Name
“But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed
you, O Israel: “‘Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by
name, you are mine.’” Isaiah 43:1
We were playing in the gym that first week at PTM and I was working so hard to call everyone by name. There was one young man whose
name I kept messing up and he had to keep correcting me. So every day I’d
practice his name and when it came out of my mouth, it came out wrong. I’d
go touch his shoulder and look him in the eyes and ask him to say his name
to me and I’d repeat it. One day, some of the other kids told me this young
man had a nick name, Polo. So I started calling him Polo. It was easier to
say and I thought he’d feel a camaraderie with me because I called him by
his nickname. At the end of the day, we were sitting together playing Multiplication War and he asked me a question. “How come you started calling
me Polo?” I told him, “The other kids told me you liked that name and to
call you that.” He said, “Miss Lisa, I get called a lot of names in my house
and really I don’t like any of them. I like that you call me by my real name.”
I said, “Even when I get it wrong?” He said, “I don’t mind you getting it
wrong cause you’re always lookin’ at me asking for my help. It makes me
feel like I done something right.”
Thank you Lord that you created us, you know us and you have called us by
name.
Contributed by Lisa Lenz, Park Avenue Site Director and PTM Education
Director
December 4
Stepping Blindly
"“We live by faith and not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7
The girls entered the creek with hesitation. It was cold. It was wet.
There were leaves floating in it. There were minnows and crawfish and tadpoles. The rocks were uneven and varied. And when you stepped, the
ground shifted underneath your feet and the silt floated around so you were
unable to see the rocks for your next step.
For most of these PTM 1st - 6th grade girls, it was their first time in
such a natural body of water. They wore water shoes provided by the Great
Outdoors University, the facilitators of our field trip. They were encouraged
to take some steps into the creek, and at first, only one or two of the 15 girls
would do it. But one by one, each of them stepped in.
Our guide led us down the creek. It took about two minutes for
most of the girls to take to the water. They started jumping and splashing
and playing. They raced down the creek after our guide. They slipped and
screamed as they got wet. They quickly felt comfortable venturing on
ahead.
Kemani, a first grade PTM student, grabbed my hand. "Stay with
me Miss Jocelyn," she said. "I will," I said. Kemani and I walked a bit
slower than the older girls. We reached deeper water and I picked her up
and carried her to shallower parts ahead. We'd reach dips and I'd tell her to
step carefully into the drop off. We'd reach higher parts and she'd tell me to
step up. We'd reach slippery bits and she'd cling onto my hand a little tighter.
We made it down the creek, exploring at our own pace. Each step
we'd feel out with our feet first, because you couldn't see through the murky
water. We turned back and Kemani's older sister reached out for her hand. I
let go and she and her sister made their way back down the creek, happily
but carefully.
I think a lot of our lives are like those girls exploring.
We're hesitant to step in and try new things. We scream when something
unexpected moves. We fear the falling and exclaim with joy when we catch
ourselves. The path ahead is not visible and calls for us to reach out carefully before placing our full weight on our feet.
And the goodness of God's amazing love is this: we are not alone on
this journey. Christ himself came to the earth to hold our hands and walk
with us. He warned us about dips in the way. We have Him to cling onto
when we start to slip, often in the form of friends and older sisters. He came
to redeem us for every fall and does not hold how soaked we got against us.
Lord, thank you for being our guide and our companion. Thank you for
knowing our next step before we do and for forgiving us for every mistake
along the way. Your love and mercies are everlasting, and for that we give
you praise. Amen.
Contributed by Jocelyn Wildhack, Human and Organizational Development
Intern
December 5
Giving Fear a Dose of Peace
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the
world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:27
Each summer for the past several summers, PTM has been beyond
blessed to be able to send students to summer camp at Barefoot Republic
Camp. This past summer as I was putting together the roster of students, I
wanted to not only invite students who had experienced the camp, but I also
wanted to think through new students that I knew would benefit greatly from
going. Jaelin, then an 8th grader in the junior high program, was one of those
students who was extremely reluctant to attend. She came up with just about
every excuse she could think of for not going, but her final excuse was the
true reality: she was afraid. She was afraid of being away from family,
friends, and being present among people whom she did not know. After
much persuasion and much push from me, she finally decided to give it a try
and go. She left that Sunday fearful, saddened, and alone on a journey that I
was sure the Lord wanted her to travel. She returned that Saturday, however,
having given her life to the Lord through declaration, and full of stories and
experiences of camp. I guess fear didn’t have the last say.
Had fear had the final say so in Jaelin’s journey, she would have
missed out on way more than just a week at camp, and meaningful relationships. She would have missed out on Christ attempting to establish his presence in her life. Fear seeks to tell us the lie that we can’t, that we shouldn’t,
and that we are not good enough. Fear seeks to destroy the light that God has
placed in us by replacing it with the darkness that it embodies. Fear seeks to
take the place of peace in your heart so that you have no faith to believe that
God is working in your life. Fear seeks to tell us that it is easier to leave the
path untraveled rather than embark on the journey with faith to navigate it.
What has fear told you about your life? What has fear sought to do in you?
Fear has only as much power as we allow it. Fear isn’t of God and as
such, it shouldn’t be a part of us. God leaves us his peace to manage the daily
struggles of living life. We must choose peace over fear not just in one instance, but it must be a decision we make daily.
Don’t let your heart be troubled or afraid of the unknown. Trust that God is
leading you down a path that will add to your life, not take away. Relinquish
control and choose peace instead.
God, show me the things I am afraid of and give me the courage to let go of
them. Help me trust you and accept the peace you have for me. Amen.
Contributed by Dwight Johnson, Calvin House and Jr. High Director
December 6
Melting Popsicles
“Bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you.”
Colossians 3:13
As the PTM week winds down, Thursdays present the biggest challenge in helping students stay on track and make the right decisions. Excitedly talking over one another, arguing over who would get the last pack of
cheese crackers, and refusing to clean up markers, the students were demonstrating their worst end of the week behavior yet. I was asked to only pick
two of the five students in my group who set the best example of following
directions despite the decisions their fellow students were making. After contemplating who I truly though deserved a reward, I announced to the group
two of the boys would be getting the reward of a popsicle. To my surprise
the students who were not chosen began to burst into tears. At first, I tried to
calm them by reminding them rewards were a special treat that they too
could earn next week. However, the remaining girls continued to cry and
eventually progressed to collectively making fun of the two boys who had
received the rewards. At this point, I couldn’t let the girls carry on any longer
as the boys became, understandably, very hurt. Not knowing what to say, I
asked the girls to pray to God that he would take the bad attitudes out of their
hearts. The girls were too distraught to find any consolation in my advice.
Instead, they continued to mock the other students until we were forced to
suspend them from Fun Friday.
It was this same Thursday that left me walking through the streets
near my PTM site, taking one of the girls who had been suspended to her
home. On the front steps of her humble house, I was welcomed by her mother and brother who I was obligated to tell why the student had been
suspended. After relaying the day’s events to the student’s mother, I went
home feeling disappointed in my students because I knew they were so much
better than how they had acted. Over the weekend the impact of my student’s
behaviors did not fade, and I approached the PTM door the next Monday
with apprehensive steps.
After a quiet snack time and a calm bible story, I was reunited with
my friends from the week before. Seeing the disappointment gleaming in my
eyes, the very student I had walked home the week before immediately came
up to me. The young girl looked straight at me and said, “I’m sorry Ms. Rebecca, I know I shouldn’t have acted like that, and I’m really sorry.”
She then proceeded to listen to directions all afternoon, go above
and beyond in keeping PTM clean, and at the end of the day she earned the
award I gave her.
That afternoon, I had the privilege of talking to the student’s mother, but this time I was delighted to tell her daughter had made her own decisions, independent of the other students that put her heart in the right place.
God, thank you for forgiving us and giving us second chances. May we cultivate a forgiving heart like yours. Amen.
Contributed by Rebecca Derby, Wilson Center Volunteer
December 7
Christ Focused
Since I was a little girl Christmas was always the time of year that I
looked forward to the most. As with many American families, it has always
been a time of food, fun, and family. We would dress up and attend parties
with my parents’ friends or family parties that were full of family members I
only saw once a year. It was always a busy time but so full of joy. I would
start anticipating all that would be waiting for me under the Christmas tree in
October. I would spend Thanksgiving evening writing out my wish list for
Santa and a separate one for Mom and Dad. I would watch the same Christmas classic movies and the silly ones made by ABC Family over and over. It
sounds like a pretty great life for a child, right?
Christmas continued to be those same things for me for a long time
and in some ways still is. During my time in college though, I noticed a clear
shift between my Christmas experience as a child to my Christmas experience as an adult. One Christmas I was actually disappointed and a little jealous because my younger brother and sister got better gifts than me. That’s
when I knew my views about Christmas had to change. It seems so silly but I
think truly being Christ focused during the busyness of Christmas is actually
an issue that a lot of Christians struggle with. We say things like “Let’s keep
the Christ in Christmas” but when something goes wrong at our Christmas
dinner we’re thinking how this Christmas wasn’t as good as last year.
In years since, I have spent a lot of time during the holidays being
intentionally Christ focused: reading an Advent devotional, discussing the
true meaning with other believers, watching the Nativity Story, and praying
for the Lord to help keep my eyes on Him. At PTM, my goal during the holidays is to make Christmas about Jesus for our children. I want my gift to
them and others around me to be the gift of truth that comes only from the
Word. I want to encourage you to remain intentionally Christ focused during
the holiday season. Let God use it as a time to pull you closer to Him rather
than becoming deeper immersed in our culture.
Lord, during this eventful time of year help me to stay focused on the true
meaning of Christmas. Thank you for the gift of your Son and the sacrifices
He made for me. Thank you for loving me even when I fail to remember what
this season is truly about.
Contributed by Katelyn Knowles, Mt. Nebo Elementary Site Director
December 8
Is Anything Too Hard for Me?
“I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?”
Jeremiah 32:27
The intern walked into our first supervision and before the words
left her lips, I knew what was on her heart. “I feel overwhelmed,” she said.
“I met one little boy whose dad is in jail. Another little girl said that her
mom just lost her job. I also heard that the police were called to somebody’s
house. I’m not sure that I can do this. It seems too hard. I can’t make a difference.”
She expressed what many young people feel when they come to
serve at PTM. They want to help. They have a desire to make a difference,
but the reality of the student’s situation is too overwhelming. They become
burdened by focusing on issues that our students deal with on a daily basis.
They feel hopeless because they have no power to change circumstances.
They have no power to change behaviors.
I looked at her and offered an apology because I knew what was
about to come out of my mouth would seem offensive and unsympathetic.
“Take a deep breath. God has not called you to be their Savior. He has already completed the hard work. He wants you to love His creation. He wants
you to be present. He wants you to build a relationship. He will take care of
and has taken care of the hard work. He’s already done the saving. As you
interact with the students, you need to walk in freedom and know with certainty that God is working and moving and transforming. That’s not your job
description, it’s His.”
My prayer for the interns that serve at PTM is that they would have
an unwavering trust in God’s plan not just for the students that they are
working with but also for themselves. My prayer is that they would trust that
God has called them, sent them, and brought them here for a reason and a
purpose that is larger than they know. And, even though situations are overwhelming, nothing is too hard for the God that we serve. Nothing is out of
his reach. No person is outside of his domain. He is the God of all mankind.
God, may we trust that you have called us. May we know that nothing is too
big or hard for you. Give us your eyes to see that you are in control of every
situation. Amen.
Contributed by Carmen Foster, Intern Director
December 9
You Are Special
“When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the
stars, which you have set in place, what is mankind that you are mindful of
them, human beings that you care for them.”
Psalm 8:3-4
My very first retreat as an adult—and many of the kids’ 1st Fall Retreat—was at Camp Barefoot. Getting out of the city made for different scenery, removing us from the regular bustle of city life. Once night fell, we all
could see far more stars than we can see in Nashville.
I witnessed the younger ones feel a sense of awe at God’s handiwork. The stars were so bright! No more fussing about how long the morning
hike was, or how thirsty or cold they were—all the regular teenage whining
that goes with the age. Each kid became quieter, more settled. We all collected sticks from the forest to make our s’mores around the campfire. Everyone
worked collectively to find the “good sticks” for the younger ones. I sensed
that a wind of compassion swept over them, no longer having to put on a
mask attempting to identify with their peers back in the city.
We prayed out there in the open field that night. We explained to the
kids that just as God created the stars so infinite, belonging to an intricate
solar system, the mountains to stand high, and the creeks and lakes so majestic and deep, we, too, are created especially by God. In fact, we are God’s
prized possessions. Just as God has placed care on his creation, God cares
and loves us just as intimately. What are we that God is mindful of us? We
are the blink of God’s eye, located right at the center of God’s heart. Remember that as you journey through this life, as you encounter the good, the bad,
and the in-between, God is mindful of you. Take heart in the fact that as God
has taken care in revealing to us the brightness of the stars, God has
already taken care of your future. Rest in the beauty of creation, but above
all, rest in God’s care for you.
Lord, thank you for creating me so carefully and intricately. May I remember
to see the beauty in others and in the world around me.
Contributed by Pat McAfee, Calvin House Volunteer
December 10
Good Enough
“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21
During the season of Advent we celebrate that the waiting of God’s
people is over in the arrival of Jesus Christ, Immanuel. The Father’s plan of
redemption and salvation was being revealed as God’s only son, God in the
flesh, mercifully entered our broken, dark, and sin-stricken world as a baby.
One of my main prayers for the children at St. Luke, and for myself,
is that our hearts would marvel at the Gospel story. The perfect, holy, creator
God loved His people so much that He would send a Rescuer to die in our
place and bring us back to Him. This Gospel truth is only so marvelous
when we realize just how badly we needed to be rescued, and how desperately we needed a Savior. Often, we walk through our lives so comfortably
that we miss this.
One afternoon during PTM, I was surprised when a student stomped
out of his reading class crying, and slammed the door behind him. My hopes
were high on that day for him because we were studying a really cool science topic, and he had just told me his dream was to become a scientist. I
asked him why in the world would he be out in the hallway when his group
was talking about science, his favorite subject.
Arms crossed, head to the floor, and tears dribbling, he replied, “I
don’t want to study science.” I attempted to quickly steer him away from an
emotional breakdown, which happens often for this child, by exclaiming that
I thought he wanted to become a scientist one day. “I don’t want to be a scientist!” The tears were flowing harder now and he was on the verge of an
angry sob. A little taken aback by this sudden confession, I continued on and
asked him why not. “Ms. Christina, I’m just too bad.”
The hard truth of the Gospel story is that this world is in darkness,
marred by sin. It was in that moment that this student got a glimpse of just
how broken and ugly our hearts can be. God was drawing this child nearer to
Him, as he realized his great need for a rescuer. As much as I desire to see
my students happy, I am thankful for these moments where God reminds us
that we cannot fix ourselves. We simply cannot turn our days around on our
own strength. We end up failing, often pretty miserably. Yet, the wonderful
news of the Gospel is that “while we were still sinners, Christ died for
us” (Romans 5:8.) Not only did Jesus die for our sin, He lived a perfectly
obedient life, one that we can never achieve ourselves. By believing this to
be true, God declares to us, His children, that we are forever good enough.
Gracious and loving Father, help us to see our great need for you this season. Help us marvel at the humility of Jesus in being born into this broken
world and living a life that we could never live. Thank you that in Christ,
that perfect life is now ours to own. Come, Lord Jesus.
Contributed by Christina Wood, St. Luke Elementary Site Director
December 11
Contentment in Christ
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and
petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of
God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your
minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
When I was a child, the Christmas season was the time of the year; it
was the time that teachers brought treats to class, friends brought candy and
small gifts for their friends, and finally – the best part of Christmas – the
presents from Santa! Opening presents was one of my favorite Christmas
activities, as adding a doll to my collection or receiving new clothes brought
me such joy.
But as I reflect back on opening my Christmas presents, I realize
how temporary that joy was. How long did the joy of opening a gift last for?
If I am being honest, that joy usually lasted long enough to open up another
present! Christmas consumerism highlights a conflict that believers always
face: what am I placing my hope and joy in? Am I content with the life
Christ has made for me?
Contentment is one of the easiest and hardest tasks that Christians
continually face. Contentment comes with intimately walking with Christ,
as we are exposed to the highest form of love and joy from Christ. John 15:5
says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you,
you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” If we abide in
Christ and trust that He knows what is best for us, we will bear much fruit
and find unending joy. That sounds so simple and effortless … right?
Sadly, wrong. In a broken world, temptation surrounds us – and it
advertises for a type of joy that is “better” than trusting in Jesus. And so
many times, we fall for it! In Jeremiah 2:13, God says, “My people have
committed two sins: they have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and
have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.” Rather than drinking the living water that was already available to them, God’s
people dug their own cisterns. And though the water was advertised as refreshing and satisfying, the cisterns broke and brought no water. Are we a
parched people who search for other sources of fulfillment rather than Jesus?
Though the Christmas season pushes us to desire things we don’t
have, we can rejoice in the Lord and give thanks for the life He has made for
us. God has taken so much time to make each person beautiful, as we are
made in His perfect image! Furthermore, for reasons we may not understand
or notice, God has intentionally put us into the specific situation that we are
in. Whether we are financially stable or in need of money, single or married,
childless or not – God means for us to be in our current season. Take time
and rest in this current season, as the Father of the entire universe (take a
moment, allow that to sink in!) has something so special He wants to share
with you. Take a moment, listen, because what He has to say is so much
more valuable that any Christmas gift.
Yahweh, we thank you for being a God who desires to walk intimately with
us. We have been wonderfully and fearfully made by you, our Father who is
perfect and unfailing. God, we desire to get to know you more deeply, and
desire to take joy in laying down our crosses and following you.
Contributed by Erin Verbeck, St. Luke Volunteer
December 12
In Jesus’ Name
A manager from a Starbucks in Antioch called just as I was getting
ready to leave my office one night. “Preston Taylor Ministries, this is
Chan,” I answered the phone.
“This is William, I work at a Starbucks in Antioch. Who is this again?”
“Chan; C-h-a-n.”
“Do you have a fundraiser going on where some of your students are selling
chocolate?”
Uh-oh, I thought. “No. Not PTM.” William explained how a group of boys
got out of a mini-van and came into his shop. Without any nametags or literature, they had approached the Starbucks patrons. When William asked
them what they were raising money for, they replied “PTM.” He asked more
questions:
“What are you raising money for?” “To go on a trip to Florida.”
“Who sent you here?” “Mr. Chan.”
William explained that the more questions he asked, the more their story
didn’t add up and the ruder the boys became. He looked up PTM’s number
in the phonebook just to confirm their story. As he was explaining what he
had observed I knew exactly who he was talking about. There is a family
where the grandmother sends her grandchildren into various neighborhoods
and stores selling fundraising chocolate. They live across from PTM and
have previously participated in PTM programming. What made me so upset
hearing about their visit to Starbucks is that they were raising money “in
PTM’s name” when actually the money was for their own personal benefit.
With righteous indignation I wondered, “how could they use PTM like
that?” (I have since had the opportunity to help them see why that is not only unethical, it is illegal). Shortly after, the idea hit me that so often I do
things in “Jesus’ name” that are actually more about me. My prayers ending
in “in Jesus’ name” often have the tone of selfishness and “bless me and all
the people I love”. I neglect to pay attention to the individual in front of me
because I am more focused on “running an organization in Jesus’ name”.
I want to be different. I would like to have the attitude of David approaching
Goliath:
45
David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword
and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of
the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have
defied.
I would like this Christmas season to recognize that I am a representative of
Jesus Christ, who has called me to victorious living. I would like to be faithful with that invitation and calling. I would like to receive freely the forgiveness of a God who wipes away the selfishness of one more interested in
my name than Jesus’ name. And with that forgiveness, I would like to live in
gratitude that my God and Savior keeps calling me back to represent him.
Forgiving and patient Father, thank you for second chances to represent
you. Thank you for calling me to be an ambassador of reconciliation in your
name. Will you help me to be wholeheartedly consumed with glorifying your
name, rather than worrying about my own reputation? Thank you. Amen.
Contributed by Chan Sheppard, Executive Director
December 13
Mary
How many times has God called you to something that scared you?
Maybe it was a big move or sharing the Gospel with a family member. How
long did it take you to get on board (or be forced on board?) When the angel
of the Lord came to the mother of Jesus and told her what was to come she
must have been terrified. She had grown up hearing the scripture that there
would be a virgin who would deliver the Savior to the nations. Then to be
told it was her? She was a newly engaged teenager who knew the consequences of an "unplanned pregnancy." Death. Her response has forever made
her a role model for me in trusting the Lord.
“I am the Lord’s slave,” said Mary. “May it be done to me according to your
word.” (Luke 1:38)
2014 has been a year of God making great calls on my life. I’ve
made a big move across the state leaving a job I loved, taken a job I hated,
and finally He granted the desire of my heart by placing me at PTM. In all of
these tough decisions, I have questioned the Lord’s will. I have made lists of
reasons why He couldn’t possibly want me to give up something I love for
the scary unknown. I’ve cried out to Him in fear and ignored clear signs of
what He wanted for me. Looking back now I can see His hand in everything
and that He had a purpose beyond what I could imagine.
The Christmas season is a great reminder of Mary’s story. She questioned how God could use her for this task, but believed that the Lord loved
her deeply and would protect her. I want to encourage you to pray for the
unending faith that Mary had in our Lord. Trust that even though we can’t
see the future, He can and He has a purpose for what He is calling you to.
Lord, please help me to remember the faith of Mary. Help me to grow in my
trust for You and forgive me when I fail You. Thank you for the story of Mary
and the reminder that You are in control and have plans so much greater
than my own.
Contributed by Katelyn Knowles, Mt. Nebo Elementary Site Director
December 14
Yesterday, Today, and Forever
“But Jesus responded to them, ‘My Father is still working, and I am also
working.’” John 5:17
This summer, I was speaking with a group of MFUGE students
about how their week had been going so far. Usually, these meetings consisted of a lot of talking from me and stares of personal struggle and exhaustion reflected back at me. This day, I felt it was my personal mission in life
to get them to say at least two words to me regarding something really great
that happened or even something not so great.
I decided to have the students go around the room one at a time and
discuss a high and a low. Every single student had the same low. "I just want
to tell someone about Jesus and I haven't gotten to do that yet." I encouraged
them to speak more about that, and lot of the conversation revolved around
how members of their church groups were telling these life-changing stories
about how they led someone to Christ, and how they prayed with that child
and both lives were altered forever.
This same theme continued throughout the two months that new
MFUGE students processed in and out of our doors. The students had in
their minds and in their hearts that the only way to have a week where they
really did their true Christian duty was to tell one of our kids about
God. They neglected to see what had come before them, what will come
after them, and what was right in front of them.
This got me thinking about how small of a picture that is of a huge
God and how often times we do that ourselves. We feel that the only way
someone can see or experience God is through us and if we don't lead them
to Christ, no one will. We beat ourselves up over a lack of witnessing opportunities, but little do we know the true impact of our actions. Sometimes, we
must choose to live our faith in such a way that we will never be wary of
how often we have shared the gospel because it can be seen through things
like service to PTM. I saw a weight leave their shoulders as they realized the
salvation of the world is not solely up to them. It is up to God through them
and their brothers and sisters in Christ.
After explaining this to the group of students that random Thursday
at 10:45 in the morning, I got to watch them transform. I saw them work
harder without complaint. I saw them engaging at lunch and talking about
life and common interests. I saw them understand how
they are a part of God's plan and how he is using them as tools to continue
working at PTM as He has always been working and how He will forever
work in this building and in this community.
Unchangeable God, thank you that you are always at work. Thank you for
using us as part of your plan. Forgive us when we forget to look to you as
the Savior of the world and try instead to accomplish your work by our own
efforts.
Contributed by Katie Roddy, Wilson Center Work Study Student
December 15
Waiting with Hope
Every Monday and Thursday from 4:30-7:15, I find myself constantly listening, watching and evaluating our SaLT students as they laugh,
pray, posture, study, ask for help, don't ask for help, put up walls, let walls
be torn down, eat, clean, argue, write, draw, take initiative, don't take initiative, edify one another, tear one another down, lead, follow, and serve. I realize that I'm constantly evaluating growth—are we there yet? Are their
hearts transformed yet? Are they kind? Are they demonstrating self-control?
Are they treating one another as teammates? Are they interacting as the beloved community? Are they getting A's and B's? Did they bring homework
to complete? Are they serving? Are they sacrificing?
It is exhausting to constantly be listening, watching, and evaluating.
It is good to want to use our resources of time and money effectively, to do
quality programming and to be good stewards of the gifts God has given us.
However, it is exhausting to constantly be listening, watching, and evaluating and to not be there yet.
The moments of breakthrough are powerful and bring much rejoicing. They can also be fleeting and deceptive. Monday can be peaceful and
fruitful, abundant with kindness and love. That very same Thursday can be
abrasive and aggressive, devoid of gentleness. These realities are a constant
reminder that not just SaLT students, but all of us, live in the tension of the
already and the not yet. Hope and expectation in the midst of barren deserts.
The following excerpt from the Companion to the Book of Common Worship (Geneva Press, 2003, 96) expresses it well:
"In Advent we expectantly wait for the One who has already come. We anticipate the promised justice of God’s new world, yet we praise God who
raised the “righteous branch” to rule with justice and righteousness. We hope
for the restoration of the afflicted, the tormented, and the grieving, yet we
delight that healing has come in Christ. We long for the beating of swords
into plowshares, yet we rejoice that the Prince of Peace has appeared. We
yearn for the barren deserts of our inner cities to flourish, yet we laud the
desert Rose that has bloomed. We dream of the land where lions and lambs
live in harmony, yet we acclaim the child born to lead us into the promised
land."
Lord, give us patience as we wait for you. Let our hungry expectation draw
us closer to you and let our longing for what has not yet arrived keep us focused on you.
Contributed by Meghan Finn, High School Director
December 16
Strength to Endure
“For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of
God you may receive what is promised.” Hebrews 10:36
PTM Life is a great way for younger kids to have fun while getting
in shape. It helps for sports and with waking up in the mornings. At the end
of running, we go back to PTM and have breakfast. After we are finished
eating, they talk to us about the food we eat to help us discover what foods
are healthy and what foods are not. After that, we get ready for school. We
change, we talk about where we are going next for the day, then we are taken to school. PTM Life happens once a week, which means now you have a
responsibility every week to not just show up but to give it your best and
have fun. We also run in races each semester called 5Ks, which is 3.1 miles.
The prizes for these races are: $20 if you beat Lacy, Mr. Chan’s daughter;
$10 if you get under 30 minutes, and $5 if you finish under 40 minutes. After the race we go and get something to eat and head home, which is my favorite part of race day!
PTM Life cannot happen without volunteers helping to encourage us
and push us to do more than we think we can. We have fun and laugh with
our volunteers. The point of PTM Life is to prove to us that we can do something if we try hard enough and that we have people around us to help us do
that. We need volunteers to run with us so that we don’t get lost in the middle of the race, and to receive encouragement to push and run for the finish.
Don’t be afraid to allow life to push you beyond yourself. We endure the highs and lows of life and one thing that they have in common is
that they each can make us stronger and give us strength to endure. PTM
Life teaches us physical endurance and teaches us that we are stronger than
we think. I don’t think life is so much different; life teaches us mental and
spiritual endurance and to not be afraid to expand beyond boundaries. As we
grow in Christ, we, too, grow in endurance.
God, thank you for the trials you give us that teach us endurance. Thank you
for the gracious way you encourage us when we want to give up.
Contributed by Marvell Edmond, PTM Jr. High Student
December 17
Do Not Lose Heart…
“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away,
yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light momentary
troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.”
2 Corinthians 4:16-17
Change is a tricky thing. Sometimes you are really excited about it
and sometimes it just comes without notice and without warning. This year
has been a big one for change, from my mom passing away, to transitioning
out of college, to moving 12 and a half hours from home, and experiencing
the ins and outs of a non-profit. During this period of continuous change, I
have faced many challenges, and at times still do. Turning 21 and losing your
mom, transitioning out of a place you have made home to somewhere new, it
all became very overwhelming very quickly. These changes affected my
emotions, and my mind and body just wanted to shut down. My goal became
to avoid everything that looked different, anything not familiar. But to be
real, I don’t think God has ever called anyone to avoid all change, find a
comfort zone and stick to it, no matter what. If anything, he continually tells
us to do the opposite.
As I was experiencing all this change around me, feeling frustrated
and scared, and praying that things would go back, the Lord answered me
with this: do not lose heart. He somehow managed to catch my attention. As
I was trying to close my eyes, not wanting to face the changes, he caught me.
He reminded me of his promise that the trouble we face when life is sitting
still or when we are in the midst of changes, is momentary. Do not lose heart,
though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed
day by day. For our light momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal
glory that far outweighs them all.
Being at Preston Taylor Ministries for the past few months has been
a new experience in many ways. Some days, I am more thankful than anyone
for the new things that the Lord has brought me to. Then other days, I long to
be back in Pennsylvania where I know what the weather will be like and how
my day will go. Nonetheless, I am thankful, thankful for the new and thankful for changes, and I believe that this is where the Lord needs me to be. No
matter the day I am having, I am reminded daily by awesome SaLT students,
interactions with junior high and elementary students, do not lose heart.
God I pray that you would continue to remind us of your goodness, to remind
us to not lose heart because you are for us and you are with us. May we continue to look for you in all moments, seeking you wholeheartedly and continuing to encounter you in the people we encounter. Thank you for your grace
that never ends, I love you so much. In your son, Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
Contributed by Mabel Tavarez, Leap Year Intern
December 18
Prince of Peace
“A child has been born to us, a son given to us and he is named Wonderful
Counselor, Almighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”
Isaiah 9:2-7
When Christ came into the world as a baby born to a poor, unmarried
virgin mother from an oppressed and persecuted people group, he came as
the most vulnerable of the vulnerable. I remember initially feeling angry
when I was expected to write an advent reading which would inherently call
for me to share the intimate stories of my heart with the world. Clearly, that
would make me vulnerable, very vulnerable. However, the very act of reflecting on Advent is the act of reflecting on the One who voluntarily made
himself more vulnerable than I could ever imagine being. And He did that so
that I could be forever safe in my vulnerability. So that I could share that the
desire of my heart is that our students would experience Jesus as a Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, and most especially, Everlasting Father and
Prince of Peace.
I've learned that there is frequently much noise in homes of the material poor—TV always on, chaos, story-telling entertainment, putting bills in
the freezer because there is no earthly way they can be paid at present, anxiety, etc. This noise is not only actual noise but also constant distractions that
can be considered “noise.” I long for me to know and for our students to
know the Prince of Peace who quiets our hearts and in whom we can find
rest. The deepest desire of my heart is also that our students would flourish
by experiencing life as the sons and daughters of an Everlasting Father. That
they would allow Christ to heal every wound and scar they have received in
their short lives from living in large part as “fatherless.”
If I'm being completely vulnerable, I'll share that I'm scared that students will spend hours of their lives at Calvin House and yet still not meet
this Lord who came into the world as the most vulnerable. That they will
never interrupt the cycle of generational poverty and experience all measures
of freedom—spiritual, material, physical. That they will not buy in. That it
won't be attractive enough or relevant enough. That they won't experience
His power and trust their most vulnerable hearts to Him, the only one with
whom they will truly be safe.
God, come into our hearts and fill those places that harbor fears. Be our
Prince of Peace in the moments and places we need it most, in the middle of
our vulnerability. Teach us to rest in the peace and calm your spirit in us
brings. Amen.
Contributed by Meghan Finn, High School Director
December 19
Carpet Tiles
We were standing in Lowe’s hoping to buy $1,500 worth of carpet
tiles. A youth group from North Carolina was at PTM doing a service project
to replace the carpet at St. Luke and had already pulled up the old carpet. The
salesman returned with the news: “We can have that carpet ready for you in
14 days.” The problem was that our work crew would only be at PTM for
two more days. I called Home Depot and was unable to get carpet. I called
Habitat for Humanity’s Restore Store and they had some carpet tiles, but
probably not enough and would not be open until the next day. Frustrated, I
took a few seconds to think … and pray. I called Mark Daniel, a former
board member and carpet salesman at Ozburn-Hessey Flooring. Instead of
Mark, I got another salesman who informed me that Mark recently retired,
but he would take a message. I called back a little later and spoke to Mark
Poag, President of Ozburn-Hessey and a PTM supporter.
“Mark, I’m calling with a crazy request. Do you happen to have
any carpet tiles in your warehouse? I am trying to get some carpet down tomorrow and am out of options.”
“Chan, the Lord is blessing you. We just picked up carpet tiles
from a ballroom at Vanderbilt. It’s in such good shape I couldn’t bear to
throw it away. I will give you all you need.”
By the time the youth group arrived the next day, there was enough
carpet to cover 2,000 square feet. The group did a great job and the basement
where the afterschool program meets has been transformed with fresh paint,
fresh carpet, and fresh lighting. We still have a little extra carpet which
serves as a constant reminder to me of God’s incredible faithfulness in the
big things…and the small ones.
Creative and generous God, help me to see in every provision your handiwork. Continue to remind me that you are with me always. Amen.
Contributed by Chan Sheppard, Executive Director
December 20
Something New
“Behold, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
Isaiah 43:19
The stiff, sterile air of the city clerk’s office fills my lungs. As I
stand in line, I’m noticing things that would only be noticed after having
stood in a line for more than a few minutes. This is the fifth time I’ve seen
the diabetes testing supplies commercial. My imagination starts to wander to
a land free of waiting in lines and where diabetes testing supplies are free for
everyone. I snap back and a look at my watch, only to discover that another
minute has come and gone.
“Can I help you?”
I fumble through my paperwork as I approach the desk. I say a quick prayer,
hoping that I have the all the extensively required documents that it takes to
renew the bus’s tag.
tries.”
“Yes ma’am, I’d like to renew a bus tag for Preston Taylor Minis-
One more quick prayer can’t hurt as I turn over my documents. Her eyes
scan through the documents.
“Oh… Preston Taylor, aye? That’s a rough neighborhood.”
Her choice of words could be confused for a question, but her tone and delivery are straightforward and direct (as is characteristic of any well-trained
government employee). It’s an internal struggle not to let the obligatory
agreement, “Yup, pretty rough” escape my mouth. But I can’t let those
words free. A long semi-dramatic pause fills the air as I prepare a rebuttal. A
short ten seconds of silence feels like eternity as I process all the facts: I’ve
seen people's lives being changed over the years I’ve been there. I’ve seen
grades improve, kids get to better schools, moms get better jobs, and the creation of programs to better the lives of the community. I’ve seen the smiles
on kids’ faces as the bus rolls by their house. I’ve seen beautiful friendships
that have been started by lunch mates, mentors, and running buddies. Finally,
I respond.
“It’s getting better.”
A puzzled look rolls over her face, but with it I get the opportunity to share
with her about PTM and its mission.
God is doing a new and different thing in transforming this “rough”
neighborhood!
God, thank you for doing new things in us and around us. Thank you for being a God who takes the rough places and gives them life. Amen.
Contributed by Josh Butler, Movement Manager
December 21
Broken Tire Swing
“In that day they will say, "Surely this is our God; we trusted in Him, and He
saved us. This is the LORD, we trusted in Him; let us rejoice and be glad in
His salvation." Isaiah 25:9
The aroma of goat and manure wafted under our noses. Melodies of
giggles filled the air and wide brown eyes danced in curiosity.
It was a lovely day on the Llama farm. Over a dozen pair of feet
rushed off the PTM bus eager to see what adventures this 35 acres of land
would hold.
To their delight, they got to hike to an open meadow, caress llama
fiber, eat fruit off the trees, and converse with friendly goats. Despite my
hesitancy, they courageously rolled up their pants and cautiously made their
way across the creek and posed for one too many pictures on a shaky bridge.
Perhaps the most delightful and memorable adventure was an old tire
hanging by a chain from a strong limb. It dangled there inviting the girls to
trust its faded seat. It called them to sway harder and faster and they answered.
Back and forth and one by one the swing beckoned the wild and free
spirit of the laughing girls.
Everything was going just as planned until we heard the leaves drop.
The silence was swiftly broken by laughter. All eyes looked down on the
round girl who finally decided to put her trust in the old faded tire swing.
With hands covering her damp eyes she ran. The now broken tire
swing seemed to mock her as it hung limp from the tree.
Her hurried steps seemed to say “It held up others but it did not hold
me. I needed it to hold me. Why didn’t it hold me?”
As I watched her run, I thought about the things we often put our
trust in that ultimately fail us. Things like relationships, accomplishments,
and careers that hold us for a while but sooner or later despite their promises
of security, fail us. Almost instantly, we find ourselves looking for the next
thing to place our trust in as others look on and laugh at our misplaced trust.
Maybe you are swinging in an old tire swing right now. The wind is
blowing in your hair and you are laughing without a care in the world. But I
encourage you during this season to remember the One who came and beckoned us one by one to trust him with our wild spirits so that he could make us
free.
He will not break and he will not fail us. He is worthy of our trust.
Lord, will you help us see the things we are placing our trust in? Let us find
our ultimate security in you, and know that you will not fail us. Amen.
Contributed by Nina Borum, Program Director
December 22
Following the Signs
“...Aslan didn't tell Pole what would happen. He only told her what to do.
That fellow will be the death of us once he's up, I shouldn't wonder. But that
doesn't let us off following the signs.” —The Silver Chair
This week my daughter and I listened to The Silver Chair by C.S.
Lewis. This book is about a little girl named Jill Pole, her friend Eustace
Scrub, and their friend Puddleglum finding the true Prince of Narnia, Prince
Rillian. In their pursuit they are given some signs by the great lion Aslan to
help them find the prince. They come up against giants, are almost eaten,
encounter a sorceress, and a knight.
Each night, the knight has a fit that comes upon him and the sorceress has told him that he talks nonsense during this time and turns into a serpent. So she straps him to this magical chair each night to contain him during
these fits of insanity. The above quote is said by Puddleglum after the prince,
in his right mind, calls upon the name of Aslan. Jill and Eustace are still trying to figure out whether they should let him go even though he called on the
name of Aslan which was one of the signs.
What I love about this quote is the very first two sentences, "Aslan
didn't tell Pole what would happen. He only told her what to do." Isn't this
how God is? He calls us to change jobs, move, change our children's schools,
help our families, or serve in the Preston Taylor Community. However, he
doesn't tell us the outcome of what will happen. He doesn't tell us that it will
be hard, or it will be the best decision we have ever made, but he does call us
to obedience with the knowledge that he has a plan that far surpasses anything we could have envisioned for ourselves or others. The quote below is
from Sally Lloyd Jones The Jesus Storybook Bible :
“A little baby will be born. A Royal Son. His mommy will be a
young girl who doesn’t have a husband. His name will be Emmanuel, which
means “God has come to live with us.” He is one of King David’s children’s
children’s children. The Prince of Peace. Yes, Someone is going to come and
rescue you! But he won’t be who anyone expects. He will be a King! But he
won’t live in a palace. And he won’t have lots of money. He will be poor.
And he will be a Servant. But this King will heal the whole world. He will be
a Hero! He will fight for his people, and rescue them from their enemies. But
he won’t have big armies, and he won’t fight with swords. He will make the
blind see, he will make the lame leap like a deer! He will make everything
the way it was always meant to be. But people will hate him, and they won’t
listen to him. He will be like a Lamb–he will suffer and die. It’s the Secret
Rescue Plan we made–from the beginning of the world! It’s the only way to
get you back. But he won’t stay dead–I will make him alive again! And, one
day, when he comes back to rule forever, the mountains and trees will dance
and sing for joy! The earth will shout out loud! His fame will fill the whole
earth–as the waters cover the sea! Everything sad will come untrue. Even
death is going to die! And he will wipe away every tear from every eye. Yes,
the Rescuer will come. Look for him. Watch for him. Wait for him. He will
come!”
This is God's story of redemption! It isn't the way anyone could
have imagined, but it was so much better! Praise be to God who is our Rescuer and Redeemer! He is a God who reminds of the hope and life we have
in him, and that during this Advent season we can celebrate this truth with
full abandonment and light hearts!
God, thank you for working in ways that we couldn’t have imagined. Please
give us hearts that are obedient even when we don’t know what will happen.
May we trust you as we follow you and step out in faith. Amen.
Contributed by Sarah Norberg, Wilson Center Elementary Site Director
December 23
A Father to the Fatherless
“Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us, to Him be the glory in
the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever!
Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21
Last December, a volunteer shared with me that he invited his “lunch
buddy” to a Christmas program at his church. While the student was there,
he was talking with some men at the church and referred to his lunchmate
mentor as his ‘Daddy,’ then ran up and hugged him. The volunteer shared of
his mix of emotions when this happened – both sad for the lack of presence
this student’s dad had in his life, but also humbled and thankful for the
opportunity to help fill this role in some way.
This volunteer went on to share that he doesn’t necessarily feel that
he has done something exceptional in his time with his mentee, but that
through God fixing His gaze on this particular student, then God fixing
Chan’s gaze on this particular student, PTM was able to connect these two in
a relationship that would be equally and eternally impactful – a relationship
where this mentor would grow to be a “father to the fatherless.”
This is one of the many moving stories that I get to hear as I interact
with the amazing, dedicated volunteers at PTM, and every single time, I am
reminded that we have no idea of the ripple effect of our obedience. As
people of faith, we know that the seemingly small things are usually the
biggest things, and even though we sometimes believe the lie that we are not
doing anything “big enough” in our service, work, or personal life, this
volunteer’s story is a sweet reminder to me that we are only called to be
faithful in what is before us, and God uses these small, faithful steps (the 20
minute lunch visits, the frustrating conversations at ‘the wall,’ the hour spent
re-teaching a math lesson…) to work in incredible ways that are bigger than
anything we could ask or imagine.
Father God, We want to be people who are faithful in the small things that
you put before us. We are grateful for you entrusting us with these students,
and we pray that you would open our eyes to see more of your glory and
grace in the ways that you are constantly moving all around us. Amen.
Contributed by Martha Willis, Volunteer Coordinator
December 24
Leap of Faith
“It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home
and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went
without knowing where he was going.” Hebrews 11:8
When I left Mexico to move to Nashville and become a part of the
Leap Year internship, it was only because I was certain that God was calling
me that I was able to do so. I had worked hard building my life there—
building what I thought was my forever. Yet, as is often the case, God had
other plans. And so, uncertain of the road that lay ahead, but certain of his
voice, I left.
Many times since then, I have wondered what his purpose was in
calling me out. Most days I feel that I am living on that faith alone, confident
that the reasons will appear even though I don’t see anything now.
There are moments, however, that I catch glimpses, like tiny sparks
of insight into the bigger question of “why.” I found myself seized in a tight
hug one afternoon at the same time that I heard a little voice pronounce “I
missed you!” A second later, a small whisper escaped the head that had buried itself in my sweater, “You’re my mom.” Was it for this moment, God? I
ask. I am sure it was. I am sure it was for this moment and for so many others that I have yet to see.
It may often feel like we don’t know where we are going when we
answer God’s call. He may lead us to some unexpected places. Yet the God
who calls us to go to places we’ve never been—to walk on water, to do what
we are afraid of or think we can’t accomplish—that same God is the one who
sustains us. And so with confidence we can obey.
Loving God, give us courage to go where we hear you calling us. Hold our
hands tightly when we fear taking another step. Help us learn to place our
entire confidence in you and may you yourself be our encouragement when
we falter. Amen.
Contributed by Rebekah Friend, Leap Year Intern
December 25
Family of God
“Look, the young woman is with child, and shall bear a son, and shall name
him Emmanuel: God is with us.” Isaiah 7:10-16
In the short time I've worked with PTM, the most precious experience came one evening, unexpected, when I had the honor to witness the sacredness of community and the beauty of a mother's love. Emmanuel means
God is with us. We are instructed to live in community, to be with others,
that we are not to be isolated but to share our needs to allow the community
to meet those needs while at the same time we meet the needs of others in
our community as we're able to do so. Being needy isn't something we like to
do usually. It exposes our vulnerability and our messiness. However, we are
instructed to not isolate ourselves but to live serving one another and letting
ourselves be served, despite the fact that it might sound like fingernails on a
chalkboard to self-reliant Americans.
I made what I thought was an innocuous phone call to a mother,
"Your child isn't at PTM yet, I just wanted you to know...are they at athletic
practice still maybe?" The call turned out to be anything but innocuous. It
caused much distress which only increased as it took over an hour to ultimately locate the child who was, thankfully, safe. As my colleague said, time
stood still for many people at the moment they found out that child was missing. This was true especially for their mother. Unable to leave work to search
for her child, the mother was forced to rely upon her community to shoulder
her burden –to make phone calls, drive to school, drive around the neighborhood, and ultimately to find the child. This might sound easy but there were
tears, frantic calls and I'm sure much prayer on the mother's end as she had to
sit and wait. Fortunately, she had a sister (not biological, but spiritual) standing in the gap for her.
Another PTM mother was making phone calls, driving to school,
driving around the neighborhood, and ultimately putting all the pieces of the
puzzle together. This mother didn't just fix things logistically, she was in the
trenches with the child's mother, present for the tears and desperation as
Christ, the child born to Mary, is in the trenches with us, His children when
we are crying out in desperation. When the child was located, the other PTM
mother passionately shared her heart with that child so that the child could
begin to understand how much they are valued not just to their biological
mother, but to the whole community who was fighting for the child's safety
on behalf of their mother. It was a beautiful moment and I will be
forever grateful to have been able to share it with this beloved community.
God with us, thank you for coming to earth and offering us a chance to be
part of your family. Thank you for showing us how to love and care for one
another.
Contributed by Meghan Finn, High School Director