Joy in a Shoebox

Last Saturday was a busy day for the Barnabas Community, and not just in the number of folks that came through our door. While there were many people, there was also a special energy, a liveliness in the community that day as hundreds of families with children waited with anticipation for their Shoebox Gift.

In a long, winding line that stretched through almost the entire community center, Barnabas was a buzz. Children were laughing with excitement. Brothers and sisters were helping each other keep occupied as they waited in line. Volunteers chatted with families and gave the children free Bibles to take home with them. Christmas cheer was contagiously being spread through the room.

As children received and opened their shoeboxes, not knowing what lay inside, you could see them light up with joy. Many were so thankful to be given a gift, as they weren’t even expecting this special day at Barnabas. It was a complete surprise, and one they were overjoyed with. Parents were thankful and joyous too, as many of the families who worry about finances this season were able to give their children this special moment; joy found in a shoebox.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered at Barnabas this past Saturday, and to those who made the gifts and helped make the Shoebox Gift event possible. Your service was noticed by the 176 children and their families that received gifts at Barnabas that weekend. Because of your help, you were able to spread joy and hope to others, for whom many this is a dark season.

Thanks be to God and Merry Christmas!