Sperrin Integrated College, Magherafelt, has supported Habitat's work for many years. In Summer 2016 a volunteer team from the school travelled to Romania, to support our work with vulnerable families. This Advent, volunteer Shannon reflects on the importance of home.
In this world in which we live many of us tend to take what we have for granted, like our food, a clean water supply and our homes. Our home plays a vital part in the running of our lives but think of the many people who do not have a safe home, a place to call their own.
When Jesus was born, He did not have a place to even lay His head. He was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger; in an area of poverty, an area of pain and sickness.
“For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”Jeremiah 29:11
In July 2016, I was involved in a project with Sperrin College in Romania where we helped build the walls of some Habitat houses. These walls will act as a boundary dividing these families from some of the many harmful things in this world.
Through these projects with Habitat for Humanity, more families will have the promise of Christmas; the promise of celebrations and joyful experiences for everyone that dwell within.
For the first time, many of the children will experience Christmas in a safe and loving environment, and they will live out all the traditions which come with Christmas.
These precious homes will be a promise of a new start for these families.
Prayer
A haven for safety and peace in night and day and a place of refreshment, of growth and happiness. May the Lord bless this house and make it a home filled with his love. Amen.
Make a special Christmas gift to help families in urgent need of a safe place to call home. Learn more about global volunteering opportunities here.
Read more Advent Reflections here.
