Jesus’ ministry on earth was one of service.  The life he modeled, as servant, was intended to be an example for all humanity.  His association with those considered least (the undesirables or unworthy) brought him much criticism and speculation.  However, his message was clear:  we are no better or more deserving than those, who through lack of opportunity, education or ability, find themselves lost and last.  Often persons of “ low estate” come in last, in terms of having their physical needs met.  They become lost in a monetary system, unobtainable for a variety of reasons.  Despite skepticism regarding those at poverty level, Jesus’ admonition is clear:  we are to minister to them.

One of the ways we can do this is through Heifer International, whose motto is: Ending Hunger, Caring for the Earth.  For almost 60 years, the Heifer Project, as it is commonly known, has assisted persons, world-wide, from Appalachia to Zimbabwe, by providing food, clothing, education and LIFE, to those struggling in poverty.  Millions of people, who were once hungry, now have milk, eggs and means to buy other necessities.  Families, who knew only poverty, learn techniques of farming and raising animals for food and by-products.

Passing on the gift means recipients agree to share the offspring of gift animals with others in need – reaching out to neighboring communities, making them partners with Heifer, in the fight to end world hunger.  Children are able to go to school, rather than working in the fields, giving them education to provide a better standard of living for their families.

Heifer International maintains the highest standards in animal management, training the recipients of the gift animals in good techniques of feeding and overall care.  Guidelines are strictly reinforced, with professional veterinary staff.

How can we, at Nichols-Bethel UMC help?  Once again, we will be collecting for Heifer during the 6 weeks of Lent.  Our Sunday School classes will receive “ark” banks, in which to collect coins.  The entire congregation is invited to share in this endeavor.  If every family gave $5.00 a week, for 6 weeks, we could easily achieve our goal of $5,000, to purchase an entire ark of animals!

• A sheep - $120
• Flock of ducks and geese - $20
• A llama - $150
• Honeybees - $30
• A goat - $120
• Tree seedlings - $60
• Trio of rabbits - $60
• A water buffalo - $250
• A pig - $120
• A flock of chicks - $20
• A cow - $500

These are some of the many possibilities. When a contribution is made, persons may designate a particular animal or animals to be purchased, or contributions may be combined to provide an entire ark filled with animals.  This is our hope for Nichols-Bethel UMC. During this time of Lent and self-denial, please consider helping those less fortunate, with a gift to Heifer International.  Checks should be made out to Nichols-Bethel UMC, with Heifer designation.  When all monies are collected, we will send one check to Heifer International.  We will receive confirmation of receipt, a thank you note and a certificate of giving, suitable for framing. Jesus taught us to serve one another.  Let’s buy an entire ark, filled with animals!  Your gift will give over and over again, as it is passed on from recipient to recipient.  Remember, just $5.00 a week, for 6 weeks, per family, will buy an ark!  What a wonderful way to thank God for all our blessings, by giving to others in need.

Beloved, let us love one another, because love is from God:  Everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.  I John 4:7

In His Service,

Linda

Posted Saturday, March 3rd, 2007