During the 2008 Christmas season Church of God missionaries Tommi and Poppi Smith were able to minister the joy of Jesus to more than 1,500 children, many from the slums of Jakarta, during several outreaches.
Everyone is Special
At every outreach, following a special kids worship program, which consisted of singing, puppets, drama, Bible story and prayer, every child in attendance went home with a special gift. These special gift packs contained a variety of assorted presents such as: an Indonesian language Bible, a red or blue colored polo shirt with the fish symbol for Christ embroidered on it, water bottle, school supplies, candy and snacks, and some received a teddy bear or crocs shoes. For most of these children this was the first Bible they have ever owned. The polo shirt meant they would at least have a new shirt for Christmas.
Gifts for the Children
Our house was very hectic during the holidays with Poppi and the family wrapping and counting the gifts for the children. We knew that many of the children who were to receive these gifts eat each week at one of our Poppi’s Kitchen feeding programs, and within those groups are children who are abused, abandoned, orphaned or have incarcerated parents. Although all of them come from poor families, they all belong to Jesus.
Different but the Same
Each exciting Children’s Christmas Celebration was different but all followed the same general format. We partnered with already existing children’s ministries from very small churches or schools. Our philosophy is to come alongside the struggling Indonesian ministries to help them minister to children more effectively. In this “helping” role, we offer leadership, experience and resources.
Poppi’s Kitchen
Poppi’s Kitchen feeding program follows the same philosophy – we want to partner with those hearts and to care for the poor – spiritually, physically and educationally. Feeding centers at church-sponsored schools work best. We reach these children for Christ through such efforts and impact their lives forever.
Earning the Right to Share Jesus
All three Jakarta locations of Poppi’s Kitchen ministry participated in the Christmas outreaches. In a sense, we earn the right to share Christ because of our compassionate programs. The perception of many Muslims is that Christians do not care for the poor and needy. As our benevolent actions change that misguided notion, we will win many by our love.
Bless in a Tangible Way
The goal of these Children’s Christmas Celebrations was, of course, to celebrate the birth of Christ, but also to bless poor children in a tangible way and to give them an opportunity to participate in worship. The children sung and directed praise and worship, played the musical instruments and participated in drama presentations. An age appropriate Gospel message was presented and followed by an altar service or time of prayer with the children at every celebration. A significant number of children from non-Christian families attended these outreaches. This fact alone is important evidence that our benevolence outreaches are opening the closed doors of Islam.
Thank you for your partnership with us in making this ministry possible. Together we are making a difference in Jesus name!
Tommy and Poppi Smith, Missionaries to Indonesia
Project Number 0600089
(Source: Church of God World Missions)