What is your story?

Each year, Children’s HopeChest sends close to 1,000 volunteers to minister to orphans around the world. And after every trip, I am always amazed at the creative ways that God uses each of us to bring his love to orphans. Well, today I have a special request and a unique opportunity.

In 2002, I wrote my story in Fields of the Fatherless. Since that time, it’s sold over 60,000 copies, and is now ready for a new-and-improved re-release in the Spring of 2008. My publisher has asked for some fresh content…that’s where you come in.

I want to put your story in the new edition of Fields of the Fatherless. When we serve orphans and the poor, God works through us in powerfully unique ways. In my own life, I felt as if God was loving children through my very hands. Many people tell me, "Tom, I think the kids blessed me more than I blessed them."

I want to hear your story.

I’d like you to write up your story. When did you first become involved in orphan ministry? What impact did it have on your life? How did God use you? What did it feel like? How has it changed you? What is your most significant experience in orphan ministry?

Don’t have a story? Tell someone else’s! Have you caught someone in a "deliberate act of being Jesus" to our dying world? I’d like to hear about that too!

You can pick any story–just keep it to around 1,000 words and send it to me at redletters@hopechest.org. I need to receive your article by October 31, 2007 in order to be considered for publication in Fields of the Fatherless. I’ll notify you if you’ve been selected for publication.

And to get more submissions–post this on your own blog or e-mail it to anyone you know that is involved in orphan ministry, or ministry to the poor–adoptive parents, families who serve at homeless shelters, your pastor, family, and friends. We all have a story–will you share yours with me?

I’m looking forward to hearing back from you soon. Remember–1,000 words, your orphan ministry experience, by October 31, 2007.