Psalm 103:13 “As a father shows compassion to his children, so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.”

A perfect father shows compassion to his children. "Compassion" is from a Hebrew root that implies action. It's not merely a feeling, but an emotion that inspires action.  As think of this verse I began to meditate on what is my response to so many children in need.

For me, my response to caring for children who are living in poverty and without hope is grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the principles found in the Bible. Here are some:

1.      Compassion and Love: Christians are called to show compassion and love to those in need, including orphans and fatherless children. This is exemplified in passages such as James 1:27, which says, "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress..."

2.      Responsibility: Christians believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person, including children without fathers. They see it as their responsibility to care for and protect those who are vulnerable and marginalized in society.

3.      Practical Action: Christians are encouraged to take practical action to meet the needs of fatherless children. This can include providing financial support, offering emotional and spiritual guidance, fostering or adopting children, or supporting organizations and initiatives that care for orphans.

4.      Mentorship and Guidance: Christians may also emphasize the importance of mentorship and providing positive role models for fatherless children, helping them grow into responsible and fulfilled individuals.

5.      Hope in Christ: Ultimately, Christians believe that true hope and healing come through a relationship with Jesus Christ. They may share the message of God's love and redemption with fatherless children, offering them spiritual hope and a sense of belonging in God's family.

Caring for children who are living in poverty and without hope is really a result of 1st being loved and having the characteristics of compassion, responsibility, practical action, mentorship, and sharing the hope found in Jesus Christ. There are so many ways we at the Christian Caring Center try to make a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children.  1st we feed them, we house them, we cloth them through the gifts that God provides through all of you.  We also try and encourage them by ‘extra little things”  like our back pack program, giving them encouragement to begin the school year with joy. Holiday basket program to celebrate the holidays with their families. We also send some children to Salvation Army Camp Tecumseh for a week of fun and learning the bible.  We join with programs like the “The Center” and Jasmine Poole and Won by One Community Partnership. These groups focus on the children’s enrichment programs, tutoring, mentorship, sports, etc.

I invite you to join with us in our upcoming programs to make a real and lasting impact for Jesus in the lives of the children he sends to us.

The Christian Caring Center has continued to be a blessing to individuals and families all because your generosity and agreement and we are grateful!    Thanks so much for your continued support and prayers as we all minister to the kingdom of God.

Madelyn Sutton

Executive Director