Authenticity filled the room. Each woman was eager to share their story, talk about what God was doing in their life, and celebrate their freedom and healing. 

It wasn’t quite what I was expecting. 

Show her she’s worth it. Help her feel beautiful.

Hopeful. Resilient. Humble. Loving. Thankful. 

These are the words that come to mind when I reflect upon my visit at the women’s shelter. As soon as the door opened, I was greeted with hugs and hellos, introduction and smiles. 

Authenticity filled the room. Each woman was eager to share their story, talk about what God was doing in their life, and celebrate their freedom and healing. 

It wasn’t quite what I was expecting. 

I was expecting to meet women who were obviously weary and struggling. Who had a difficult time smiling. I think I expected these things because that’s how I would feel if I were in their shoes. In my life, on days when the kids are especially needy, when I burn dinner, when things don’t go as I planned, I have a difficult time motivating myself to put down the ice cream and get off the couch. Yet here were women who have histories of abuse beyond what I can even comprehend, and they were welcoming me into their lives with open arms, breaking into laughter, and sharing about their hope in God.  

There, in the midst of the shelter, I witnessed the freedom and joy that only comes from God. I witnessed women at various stages of recovery, with different pasts and needs, but with a common love and trust in God. A secure belief that God was providing for them and that he would continue to provide for every need. A deep joy which was reflected on their faces as they spoke about what God was doing in their lives and how he was bringing freedom. And a celebration that God’s people and his church were willing to come alongside them and bless them with helping to meet their physical needs. 

It was a huge reality check for me. 

In the coming week, I’m going to be explaining to my church why we’re having a resource drive. When I think about what I’m going to say, I can’t help but wish I could invite every one of them to spend a few hours with the women at the shelter. If they could see these women, meet these sisters-in-Christ, and see their faces break into smiles over lotion, new socks, and makeup, I know they would be motivated to give abundantly. If they could meet these survivors, they would see that new underwear can help with healing. They would see that we, as Christ’s body, can provide so much hope and encouragement, so much love, by merely taking a moment to stop by the Dollar Store and pick up a few items.

If you’re interested in hosting a resource drive with your church, school, friends, or business, email [email protected] for more details.