The Gift of Love

My involvement with Speak Up Magazine may have just begun, but it certainly has been characterized by countless lessons learned and unforgettable experiences. My name is Jordan, an intern with Speak Up. And this week, I was truly humbled.

As I have been preparing to begin a series focusing on homelessness amongst children in Charlotte, I have experienced a slew of emotions while being educated about the reality of the situation in my home city. So many stories and experiences jut out in my mind that I cannot wait to share. However, there is one in particular that has truly been tugging at my heart and mind for the past couple days.

At the conclusion of my tour of Birthday Blessings, a wonderful organization I will certainly soon be writing about, my attention was directed to a tack board in the main office filled with cards and other memorabilia, accumulated as a result of Birthday Blessings’ astounding work within the community. My eyes wandered to a handmade card with a message I have replayed countless times. The words were simple and sweet. The lesson was profound.

“I really joyed the love and attention showed.” – Love, Zakyra

Young Zakyra handmade this precious card to thank the Birthday Blessings Volunteers who gave her an unforgettable birthday party, cake, presents, and a fun filled day. However, it is clear that is not all Zakyra took away from the experience.  She honed in on the other gift the volunteers were able to give her; the gift of love.

As I drove away replaying those words, 1 Corinthians 13:13 came to mind. “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” I suddenly realized that while I had been so focused on learning how the tangible needs of the homeless children in Charlotte are being met, I had neglected to consider that maybe that is not their hearts greatest desire. What if the very thing each child yearns for most is something we can all give – love? I believe that it is possible the largest unmet need is that which goes unseen, the lack of “love and attention showed,” as sweet Zakyra would say.

After all, the Lord said the second greatest commandment of all, directly after loving God with all your heart, soul and mind, is “to love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22: 36-37).

So, I ask you, will you give the gift of love today?

Photo: bcostin