How beautiful upon the mountains Are the feet of him who brings good news, Who proclaims peace, Who brings glad tidings of good things, Who proclaims salvation, Who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52.7 (NKJV)
Have you ever made a pair of shoes? Do you even think that you could? Last month at our church 15 women, teens, boys, and girls made 36 pairs of the sweetest shoes. They were made from old blue jeans and lots of different colorful prints, plaids, and polka-dotted cotton fabric. Okay, okay, we didn’t exactly assemble and glue the shoes but we cut out all the essential parts that get sewed, stitched, and glued to a sole made from recycled tires, by workers in Uganda. This awesome work provides incomes and jobs for otherwise unemployed people. It’s a win-win situation!
You see, there is a serious jigger plight in Africa, jiggers are burrowing parasites that sink themselves into the barefeet of children, adults, and everyone who walks. These parasites are debilitating, causing crippling, infection, and sometimes even death. And, the solution is so very simple – SHOES! But before the shoes can be placed on these precious feet, the jiggers must be removed which is no easy task. It is tedious, and very painful work. The children scream and those who “dig them out” cry while someone else holds the child and consoles them. The videos are emotional and moving.
Sole Hope® has an amazing story. A young couple began this ministry upon viewing a video that literally changed everything for them – please follow the link to read all about them. It is so easy to get involved, of course, donations are accepted BUT, you, your church, your club can sponsor a shoe cutting party for a minimal amount of money for the supplies. The party package is complete with patterns, templates, bookmarks, and a video to watch (have tissues at hand).
The Gospels have several illustrations of Jesus being moved with compassion, He wasn’t just moved, He acted upon his compassion.
He healed the sick. Matthew 14.14
He forgave debt. Matthew 18.27
He cleansed them. Mark 1.41
He taught them. Mark 6.34
It’s a wonderful thing when our hearts are stirred and we can actually do something about it!
What are we going to do about it?
And, one more thing, you will never again look at an old pair of blue jeans the same way you did before!
Wednesday Link-ups:
Oh! I’m so glad you shared that. This is the kind of project that keeps on giving.
Chris, thanks for dropping by. You are right, one can’t go wrong getting involved with “soul” work!
Oh, I’m so glad I linked up right after you today! Our school is always looking for service projects, and this looks like a perfect one :).
Anita, it is perfect! My ten-year old grandson did just fine cutting out the patterns! It is so worthwhile! Thanks for dropping by!
Found your blog through Holley’s link up. Thank you so much for this post. What an easy wonderful thing to do. I had heard of this project but did not know details.. so thanks so much for sharing. Have a blessed day.
Jenn, thank YOU for stopping by. Shoe-cutting is God-work! You will be blessed by it.
Wonderful…..as always…….thank you!!
Kath’ you are a faithful reader and friend! ♥
What a SOULFUL project! Thank you for your sharing once again. Love in action -the hands of the Lord at work thru all of you involved. A beautiful and heartwarming idea to be kept in mind. Thanks for the inspiration. 🙂
Soul full of hope = Sole Hope!!!!!
Susi, this is beautiful, I’m gonna share this with my church. What a blessing,
I can even do this with my grandkids, they would have a blast. I need more information, so we can do it. Love ya honey
Check the website and order a party kit, then you will have everything you need.
Very Cool!!! Sounds like a fun party for all ages. Found you at Holley’s place 🙂
Glad you drove by, Lisa! A fun party with PURPOSE!
This is a great project for helping the needy. We have a Matthew 25 Ministry in Cincinnati and the gym where I go for my water aerobics was collecting shoes this week to send to a mission through Matthew 25 in need of shoes. I cleaned off my shoe rack and opened my Soul for their much needed Soles.
I love the way you said this Donna! Soul Work!!!
And, yours.
I’ve been discussing Soul Hope with a friend as we’d like to try and plan a gathering to support so thank you so much for sharing this.
Beth, so worthwhile and even children can participate with a little help on the scissors and tracing.