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Mission Moments: Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County

By: John Reiter

Posted: November 21, 2020

Category: Daily Devotional

Daily Devotion Focusing on the Missions Supported by First Pres
1 John 3:16-18

We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.

Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County is part of a global, nonprofit housing organization operated on Christian principles that seeks to put God’s love into action by building homes, communities, and hope. They are dedicated to eliminating substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing training and access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions. Habitat for Humanity was founded on the conviction that every man, woman and child should have a simple, durable place to live in dignity and safety, and that decent shelter in decent communities should be a matter of conscience and action for all.

Habitat for Humanity of East Polk County was created in 1987. With the help of countless volunteers, they have built 162 homes in our area (9 last year). The organization works with families to construct an affordable house with them. The families participate in the construction along with volunteers. Habitat for Humanity has a number of ways that folks can help including volunteer labor, donations, and shopping at their Re-store. Our church has a long history of connection and monetary support. First Presbyterian Church has helped to construct a number of houses through volunteer hours, supplies, and financial gifts.

Prayer

Gracious God, we thank You for the gifts You shower upon us every day. In particular, we appreciate the gift of shelter and a safe place to live. We ask that You bless the ministry of Habitat for Humanity as they seek to provide housing to those in need. We pray for Your presence and role in our lives. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.