Daily Devotion Thursday March 31

We had the opportunity recently to go to a women’s recovery residential center to do a Pop Up Ruth’s Boutique.  Myself and another Volunteer, Michelle, went in not really knowing what to expect. We had pre-packaged bags filled to the brim with shampoo, makeup, soap and hygiene products as a part of the mission of Ruth’s Boutique. (If you want to know more about this program of Thrive 10:10, I’d be happy to share it with you).  We also brought in 2 dozen doughnuts from Dunkin. 

I must say, we were waiting in the room a bit awkwardly because when you meet new folks and plan to serve them, you:

-Want to make a good impression.  

-Want to honor them by not being overly churchy or coming across as the savior of the day for simply doing a small gesture. 

-Don’t want to be too chatty and therefore make them uncomfortable. The service is for them, not to make you feel good about yourself.  

There was no need for awkwardness.  The Dunkin was a hit!  Something as simple as a French Cruller made these ladies’ day.  Each woman who walked in had a bright smile on her face as she realized she got some much-needed essentials, but also a few items to pamper herself with.  You see, these ladies were in the fight of their lives.  They were literally fighting to get their lives back.  Most women were from all over the country- far from family and familiarity in the name of recovery.  The strength it takes to come back from addiction is real and it is attainable, but it requires sacrifice. We saw that in these faces that day.  For a moment, the strain of their various pasts washed away and we saw their beauty shine through.  

Some asked who we are and what organization we came from.  We explained that we are serving with Thrive 10:10. One lady asked us to explain the 10:10. It seemed an odd name (and it is, until  it isn’t).  
We proceeded to share that Jesus came to give us life in all its fullness
https://my.bible.com/bible/68/JHN.10.10 .  

He doesn’t want us to just live, He wants us to THRIVE.  It is possible through Him.  Guess who got the BIGGEST HUG then?!  Just for sharing the truth that some of us honestly take for granted.  It was a lovely moment and frankly, a few tears were shed.  

So, If you have given to Thrive 10:10 in any way whether it be through products, prayer, volunteering or monetary gifts, you make a difference.  We will not soon forget the look on the women’s faces when they were told in no uncertain terms that they are worth the world in God’s eyes! 
Meghan 
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