Our President, Bro. Samuel Thomas

From the Heart of Sam

"Now as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name.
Him they compelled to bear His cross." (Matt. 27: 32)

The life and example of Jesus Christ call us to be participants in this world, not merely spectators. In this world of hunger, pain, and sickness, many people prefer a balcony view of life. It's easy to forget the needs of the destitute when our own basic needs are met without a struggle.

We should all follow the life example of Jesus, the greatest "life participant" of all time. Being from heaven, Jesus could have walked the earth aloof from human needs. He could have dined and spent His time with the wealthy elite, but He did the opposite; He embraced people from every walk of life, and especially paid attention to the sick, lame, hated, and poor.

You may be wondering why I opened with the above scripture. When Jesus Christ was suffering, a man named Simon agreed to help a condemned Man with His burden. In the same way, we are charged with carrying Christ's offer of saving faith to the world today.

The key here is what is "in our power." We can't always solve every problem, or feed every child-but each of us can help at least one.

I believe this verse clearly commands us to help bear one another's crosses. Another person's cross may be hunger; many times it is sickness, poverty, or addiction. Whatever it is, God wants us to do everything in our power to help those in need, because that is one of the best ways to be like Christ.

The key here is what is "in our power." We can't always solve every problem, or feed every child--but each of us can help at least one.

We can send one child to a home with loving house parents. We can feed and nourish one child, educate and clothe one boy or girl. He or she will grow up and be a good, loving parent because of getting the chance to experience God's love. They may even become Hopegivers-sponsored caregivers themselves one day.

Do not let the many images of starving children, AIDS orphans, or homeless war victims allow your heart to grow callous. You may not be able to solve the world's problems, but you can help at least one of life's victims.

I thank every Hopegiver who is sending at least $30 per month to care for one or more children, caregivers, or workers. If anyone reading this is not yet a Hopegiver, I urge you to begin today. Get off the balcony and into the street.

Our Hope is in Him,

Samuel Thomas
Hopegivers, Emmanuel Ministries International