What Pennies Can Do!

We're in the middle of our 5 Sunday Avalanche Ranch VBS. We are having so much fun with the western theme. Group Publishing does a terrific job with the material. They bring freshness to our Summer Children's Outreach.

But every year, there is one element that does not change. Every year, the boys and girls challenge each other in bringing the most pennies. Every year, it always is decided by who gives the most on the final day. The adults get involved. Last week one of our men got 25 lbs of pennies. When he gave it to the girls that days result was sealed... but not by much. By the way, 25 lbs equals out to $38.00.

We egg each other on with shouts of "Boys Rule" or "Girls Drool". We have a great time.

But we always keep one thing in front of our children. This isn't boys vs. girls. This is their opportunity to give to missionaries. The money raised over the last years doesn't go to a fund, it goes to people. The last few years have gone to a couple from our church who work in Africa training believers to witness to their unbelieving neighbors. They are home most Summers because the rainy season precludes the traveling ministry they are involved in. So our kids and out adults see them and see this penny contest as an opportunity to help reach people they will never meet.

This couple has earned rock star status in our Children's Ministry. The kids will see them in church or on the grounds and elbow each other and point to real live breathing missionaries. We support the Cooperative Program. We give to Lottie and Annie. But this is a gift to someone we see, we love, we pray for by name and who represent to us the thousands of great men and women telling people about Jesus.

Oh yes, what can pennies do? They add up to almost $5,000 in the last 9 summers. So the next time someone asks, "What can a penny do?" Think of these children having fun and reaching people.