To Make A Difference

I am reading this book called Red Letters by Tom Davis, and though I am not a fan of the book as a whole, there was this was section that really spoke to me.  Tom Davis is a big advocate for HIV/AIDS over in Africa. In one of his chapters, he talked about taking care of others and having the compassion in our hearts like Jesus did while He was on earth. Here is what Davis wrote that really spoke to me:
"Every time I go into a community to offer help, I take with me little more than a sincere desire to do whatever is needed. I go with the expectation that I will leave a little of my money, my time-- a little of myself --with people who need it more than I do.  I don't do this to get anything in return-- I do it because it delights God.  But here's the crazy truth: Every time I leave that kind of environment, I walk away with far more than I gave.  I walk away with the smiles I saw in people's eyes, with the echoing laughter from the mouths of children.  I walk away changed."
After I read this, I paused... and said wow... this is exactly how I feel.  Though I have not had the same experiences as Davis, I know exactly where he is coming from.  I think that is why I am so passionate for missions and want to continue doing them.  Seeing the hope in a woman's eyes-- after she was just beat by her husband and sacred for her life--when she heard the truth and love of God, seeing the smiles of the children while playing games and singing songs, seeing the thankful prayers of those who have so little, but yet are so grateful.
Jesus himself said it is better to give than it is to receive.  I have been so blessed in my life.  Though I have been through tough times, God has still been there for me through everything.  I am so blessed to know the truth of God and his unconditional love. All I want in my life is to share Him. To share of his saving grace, to share of His love, to share of His power and might.  Nothing gives me more joy than to share God with others.  I love giving my time and my energy to serve others who need it so much more than me.  I am so thankful that God has put this passion in my heart and that I have the capabilities to continue to go on trips to serve His people.