I’m Sending You!

One of my friends, Dan Brooks owns Sunrise surf shop in Jacksonville Beach, and for several years he organized a surf camp for children who have autism.

I’ve had the privilege of helping out with this ministry – and what a blessing it was for me personally as a volunteer. This young boy I worked with never actually stood up on the surfboard. But what a thrill when he would catch a wave and just laugh. His mom was a single mom, and she told me what a blessing it was for her son to have an activity that brought so much joy. She also shared how rare it was for her to be able to come to the beach – or really get out anywhere – and just be able to relax for a few hours knowing her son didn’t need her immediate supervision.

I think about how all this started – my friend Dan saw people who are in need. It’s almost as if he heard God asking him, Dan what can you do? What do you have to offer? So, Dan begins with what’s in his hand at the time – he knows surfing, has some boards and some kayaks, connections with the lifeguards. Dan offers what he’s got, and God blesses it and multiplies it.

Not only does this ministry open a new world for some of these children, it gives hope to the parents – and some respite. It also touches the volunteers in a very deep and significant way. And, it raises awareness in the community and beyond.

So often God works like that. Touches our heart in some way. As God said to Moses, “I’ve heard the cry of my people… I’m coming to save them… Go now, I’m sending you.”

Let us pray: Open our hearts, O God, to the need and the cry of your people all around us. Convict us and then consecrate us. Show us how our deepest joys and gifts might be used to serve others. For we remember that in giving we receive. We have indeed been blessed, Lord, so that we might be a blessing to this world that you so love. In Jesus name. Amen.