This morning I was describing the scene below to my wife and it brought tears to her eyes, confirming that I had married the right woman and was in the “right line of work.”

One of the special needs children, being picked up by her mom, after a day in the new special needs program at Emanuel House. The child’s day normally would have been confined essentially to her home with little interaction and stimulation. And as I watched her walk down the street, hand in hand with her mom, talking no doubt about all that she had learned and experienced during his first school experience, as a father my heart melted.  I stopped to let the image sear into my memory as they walked down the street out of view, and I was thankful to all that contributed towards the launch of the ministry, as I firmly believe the program reflects the heart of God: caring for those that by business or the world’s standards might never be able to “fully reciprocate” or “meaningfully contribute to society.”   This is the heart of James 1:27 – Care for the most needy (widows, orphans, physically and mentally disabled, and the destitute) demonstrates true Christian sacrificial love and moves the heart of God.

If you look closely at the picture there are so many elements:

• The enthusiastic student
• The grateful parent
• The caring Emanuel House staff
• The student’s new friend saying goodbye

Investment God’s way often confounds many but honors our maker.

“Real religion, the kind that passes muster before God the Father, is this: Reach out to the homeless and loveless in their plight, and guard against corruption from the godless world.”
– James 1:27 – The Message

“One’s relationship to God shows up in his attitude toward the needy.”
– John F. Walvoord