We had the privilege of leading the chapel service for the youth of the Chaddock Children’s Home in Quincy, IL last night. 
This premiere institution is known nationally for it’s specific programs and treatments for troubled kids. As we listened to stories of the lives of the students, I began feeling blessed that I had (and have) a loving family who was supportive, involved and connected. It was a blast growing up. And I pray everyday for my own children that they experience the same.
At the same time, I am burdened for the kids who don’t have someone caring, nurturing and praying for them. I read Jame 1 this morning. Verse 27 says, “religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows…” I’m grateful that the church in looking after these kids. Though Chaddock strives to get kids back into a loving family that is able to care for the students, for some, living there is the best thing to happen to them.
It was a joy to have dinner with the kids there last night. It was great to share in music, witness and a message with a chapel full of people. It was fun to listen to a couple of the high school students play guitar afterwards. It was great to walk around campus and see the ministry and work of this organization. And I am grateful that God gave us a chance to experience, first hand, the burden. I am praying for this team of Harvest people to have more opportunities to care in this way – in the name of Jesus.