Enlist you family in making scarves for children in overseas orphanages or for those in children’s homes in your own country.
My older daughter’s class at school joined in making scarves for children in orphanages in Romania. The task was a simple yet important one. They took strips of colorful fuzzy fleece fabric that had been premeasured and cut to the proper length of a scarf. The scarves had been snipped at each end with several two-inch strips. The children tied the strips two at a time together into double knots. When they were finished, they had numerous scarves that would be delivered to children, some of whom lived on the streets during the cold winters. My daughter’s class included homemade cards for the children to let them know that they were praying for and thinking about them.
When the missionaries delivered the homemade scarves, they took photos of the children with the scarves and the pictures my daughter’s class had drawn. Seeing the photos with the children wearing the scarves and holding the drawings, my daughter and her classmates were able to realize the impact they made on children an ocean away.
Not only can these children (and needy children in your own town) use scarves, but they can also use hats, gloves, and gently used winter coats. Some cities organize coat drives, especially around Christmastime. When I looked through my daughters’ closets, I was shocked to see how many coats they had. Hanging in the closet, the extra coats were worthless. Given to a needy child, the coats became valuable.
Such a project teaches children that not everyone has the luxury of a warm coat and gloves when it’s cold outside.
Up for Discussion
My daughter’s classmates were able to see the photos of the children they helped. Even if your family is not able to see the specific children you helped with this project, how do you know you still made a difference?
Read Matt. 6:4. Why does Jesus command us to keep our giving a secret? What would be wrong with telling others about what we have done? When if ever might it be all right to tell others?
So that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.
—Matt. 6:4