Last month two members of our church went to an orphanage in Africa for children who have HIV and those who have lost their parents to the virus as well. There were over 20 kids staying at this particular orphanage, which was started by a woman who adopted her nephew after his parents died from Aids and she wanted to help others in the same circumstances.

We were asked to help participate in this trip in a great way. No, not by going to Africa, but by helping to raise shoes, socks, medicine and games/toys for these children. We filled at least one big suitcase, if not two with all kinds of goodies! And it seems as if the kids loved their treats!

This reminds me of a teaching from Jesus about loving all people. He says in Matthew 5:42 "Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you." And this is what we are called to do daily in our lives.

The youth group has also "adopted" a girl name Ioana. She is affiliated with Global Hope and lives in Romania at an orphanage. The proceeds that we get from selling food in the youth room go to help support Ioana, but we could always use more money. If you can help, please, we will take whatever you can give.

There are many opportunities that we have where we get to give to others who are less fortunate in necessities than we are. We just need to see these moments and seize these moments. That is the message Jesus taught and as followers of Christ we are called to action.