While we were in Florida we stayed at a place designed for those who are awarded a Make a Wish trip. The name of the place is called Give Kids the World. It is an incredible place designed to meet the needs of all those who come to seek a little peace, rest, and relaxation. The Village (as it is affectionately called) is a resort complete with individual villas for each visiting family. There are opportunities to eat, swim, eat, horseback ride, eat, ride a train, eat, putt-putt golf, and eat some more. (Did I mention eating?) My favorite place was the ice cream shop. While I was in Florida I had a sugar free vanilla shake every day. The ice cream shop was sacred ground.
There are approximately 1,500 volunteer positions that are filled each and every week of the year. That may sound like a staggering amount of people to manage, but we were told that there is never a shortage of people who offer their time and talents to The Village. Everyone involved does an incredible job to create a special time for the many Make a Wish families who stay in one of the villas.
These people, or angels, volunteer to ensure that all have a good time. The ones who sacrifice so much of themselves are incredible examples of the workings of God. No matter what the weather, the mood, or any events, the work of God continues. Love never stops. It endures and continues onwards and upwards.
We can be as effective in our world as the volunteers at The Village are effective in Florida. The work of God must continue in our own situations. We must act regardless of the circumstances. Whether we are ill, busy, or exhausted, love must shine through us. That is the only way that our world can see the incredible gifts which God offers to humanity. With love we can move mountains.
I took more from The Village than I ever gave back. I learned the importance of continuing the good works that are in me. These are the things that last. Continuing the works of God forms the basis of my faith. My faith in the everliving God restores my soul as rivers of living water flow out of my innermost being. What I do for humanity displays my oneness with the Creator.
Let us continue to make a difference in our world. We are called to be a people of the light. We are to live in the presence of God. Where there is no light, we are called to bring the presence of hope. In hope there is God. In God there is only light. Let us be the vehicle by which the love of God shines into our world.
From a Pastor's Point of View 