Her First Teddy Bear

She stared down at the teddy bear in bewilderment. Her hand touched the velvety fabric and she turned her eyes up to me.

"Go ahead. You can play with it." I smiled as the church's worship continued.

But she didn't run off with it like my son Daniel would have. She just gazed at it and caressed the bear's arm.

Then I realized--she'd never had one.

Her mother and sisters lived in a favela (slum) outside the city. We'd visited them on one of our house to house discipleship visits with the pastor. They didn't have much. But the older sister looked out for her. And their mom looked after them and the baby with care and kindness.

Daniel's grandma gave him this bear before he was even born. Should I give it away?

After the church service, my wife and I decided to give the bear. It was nothing in comparison to the needs they have. But it was what we had to give. So we did.

We've since returned home and are finishing the last days of this YWAM missionary training school (DTS--Discipleship Training School).


Looking back, I am not discouraged at the tremendous needs I cannot meet in Brazil. I am only thankful that we had the opportunity to do what we could. And may God help those we cannot.

Thanks so much for reading, praying and supporting us during this outreach to Brazil. The faithful are not without reward. Thanks!

-Jeff, Quezia & Daniel (and DTS)

P.S. "Granny Jannie" was glad we gave the little girl the bear! :)

posted by Jeff @ 11:36 PM