Keeping it Simple
It was one of those conversations that sticks with you, that you find yourself bringing back to mind again and again. “Just love God and be a blessing to people,” were the words the plumber said as he sat talking about how we often make the Gospel harder than it actually is. And it really is THAT simple. Jesus said it was. When asked to tell what the most important thing was that God wanted from us, Jesus responded, “Love the Lord Your God…and love your neighbor…”(Matthew 22:34-40). At the end of it all…won’t that really be what mattered? Judging from Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:34-36, I think the criteria mentioned reiterates quite well His earlier point about love. “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” Beloved, we have got to keep it simple! Just like Jesus said, and just like the plumber said that day in the kitchen: “Just love God and be a blessing to people.”
What a blessing your giving has been to the orphanage in Peru. On our recent trip there, we were able to see the stove that you helped us to purchase, and I (Tony) was even able to fry some chicken on it as we helped prepare the afternoon meal that we served the children and staff. One thing that touched us deeply was the two questions the children asked us as soon as we arrived at the home. Coming eagerly over to us and looking at us with their anticipating eyes, they asked if we were going to buy groceries for them again, and if we were going to get all of the goodies and snacks that we usually supply. I tell you, these children look forward to our visits, partly because of the good food that you all provide for them each month.
There is a young boy in the orphanage named Will that would like to go to college next year, and he would like for Home of Refuge to help him. The cost is $400.00 per quarter, totaling $1,200 for the year. Will desires to study computer engineering. If you want to help sponsor Will’s tuition, please let us know. Thank you.
The director of Santa Maria’s is still ill, and we ask you to please keep praying for him. Please also remember Rosa as she continues to recuperate over the next several weeks and endures 4 weeks of upcoming therapy for her shoulder.
Christmas is nearly here and close on it’s heels, the beginning of yet another year. As so often happens, the characteristic “frenzy” of the season can eclipse the real meaning of why we give, and why we celebrate. Say “yes” to those activities and traditions that support your values and priorities this season. Keeping things simple might just help you enjoy a bit more “peace on earth” this Christmas.
If you would like to give in order to supply the children at Santa Maria’s with extra clothes this Christmas, please communicate that to us so that we might be able to purchase much-needed clothing for them, providing a Christmas gift they will greatly appreciate.
Till next month, may God’s grace and peace fill your hearts, and may the Holy Spirit remind you often to “just love God and be a blessing to people.”
With deepest appreciation,
Tony and Rosa Rivera
Homes of Refuge International
