A pile of old blankets on the cold, hard sidewalk that serves as a bed . . . a garbage can filled with discarded leftovers that will soon be dinner . . . a plastic shopping bag that carries one threadbare change of clothes . . .
If you're thinking I can't image living like that . . . or How do people survive with so little? . . . then you can understand the suffering of those who call the streets home.
By God's grace, we know the blessings of having a safe and comfortable place to sleep . . . a closet of clean clothing . . . and cupboards filled with food. Because we don't have to worry about these life essentials on a daily basis, we can concentrate on using the talents and skills God has given us to raise our families . . . build careers that enrich our community . . . spread Jesus Christ's transforming love . . . and fulfill His heavenly purpose.
But imagine the amazing potential that's lost if homeless people merely struggle to survive — and never experience the miracles God can perform in their lives.
Right now, as you're reading this in the comfort of your home or office, I hope you'll consider the needs of men, women and families here in the Ozarks who are merely surviving from day to day. Your generosity is especially important with the cold winter months fast approaching. Together we can eliminate poverty from the inside out.
