“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit- fruit that will last- and so that whatever you ask for in my name the Father will give you.” – John 15:16
God asks us to bear fruit. This requires action. It also requires us to ask Him in His name for help. With His help, this fruit will be of a lasting kind. I love this season when the strawberries are ready – we have even eaten really delicious peaches already this summer! But the fruit I buy at the grocery store sure doesn’t last. I can use some pretty overripe fruit in my smoothie in the morning, but there does come a point when the blueberries have more white than blue on their skin. It doesn’t last. I am grateful that the Lord says that He chose us to bear a lasting fruit and when we ask, He partners with us to accomplish that!
We just wrapped up our school year for Community Kids with two fun outings.
The elementary aged Community Kids went to City Park for fun on the playground, time in the cool shade playing with the parachute and snack time that included the unprecedented 4 types of cookies! This did not go unnoticed. Dionne and I heard a lot of laughter and saw bright smiles during that time. Then on June 16 we had 7 of our Community Kids attend the first Day Camp for the summer, where they learned about what and Who makes them and their stories unique. It was a very fun and creative time together with 38 other kids!
Our Teens celebrated the end of a long school year with our traditional trip to Casey’s Amusement Park! We laughed together and bonded while driving go karts, playing mini golf and riding bumper boats. Several of the kids were very, very good at knowing just how to bump into Rita for the biggest splash. Then on June 22 we had our first summer fun night of dinner and an outing to a local park & beach. It was a small group and that allowed for a different type of connection.
We don’t always get to see the fruit that is born from the seeds we sow, but I’ll give you a look at two experiences I’ve been blessed to have had just this month.
First, I was again able to babysit the two daughters of one of our very first Community Kids from 12 years ago! They really love coming to our house to play. Occasionally the oldest will forget who she’s with and call me “Grandma”. I correct her…..most of the time! Their mom has known that we are safe people and that our home is a good place to be for many years!
Second, my husband Quinto and I were invited to former Community Kid Dan’s house for a game night last week. We sat at his dining room table with 7 other “kids” between the ages of 14 and 27 that were welcomed in and treated with kindness, love and grace. With all the laughter, games and food, it looked just like a Community Kids Teen night!
Fruit that will last. Thank You Lord!
Thank you all for your prayers and support for Community Kids! It is good to be sowing in Christ together with you.
– Rita Lotti
Rita Lotti is the Community Kids coordinator and has a special passion for loving on kids. She and her husband Quinto have served the Lord faithfully for many years, and continue to pour into children’s lives today.
The Community Kids ministry is committed to pouring life-giving truth, experiences, and love into the next generation in our community. Click here to learn more about our Community Kids program.