Operation Christmas Child

I had the most amazing experience on Friday. Rather than fighting the Christmas crowds in shopping centers or camping out at my local Walmart, I ventured with a group of 10 others to the Operation Christmas Child collection center in Charlotte, NC. Words can not describe how moving and emotional the experience was for me. The center and our day was filled with people, shoeboxes and prayer. I made so many friends that day- and have learned a lot more about Samaritan's Purse and about how I can become involved year round in this unique ministry. The size and magnitude of this project grows with each passing year. Last year OCC touched over 8 million children in 100 different countries. Hopes are to exceed that number this Christmas. After my visit last Friday I have decided to pack a few more boxes with my classroom and church. I had only packed one box as an individual, however after my visit I wanted to do more- and I wanted my students to be involved. Lord willing I will be heading back to Charlotte within a week with a few more boxes and perhaps a few more hands to volunteer. If you have not ever taken part in OCC I encourage you to do so. Each box- isn't just a gift- it's a child and their opportunity to accept Christ. By the way- the more than 70 boxes that I myself touched and packaged will be heading to Peru and Zambia.