by Andrew ChurchillSince 1995, God has used Urban Impact to impact the lives of youth and families on the North Side of Pittsburgh. Through Athletics, Education and the Arts, Urban Impact is able to communicate and demonstrate the Good News of Jesus Christ to nearly 2,000 children and teens each year, and many more adults, whether family members or members of the greater community. Since 2009, I have had the privilege of serving full-time on the staff of Urban Impact, fulfilling various ministry and administrative roles within our Athletics Department. Over these past 10 years, my Hebron Church family has been such a blessing to both me and Urban Impact, whether through gathering ministry supplies, completing group service projects, or giving towards my ongoing financial support.
This December I was overwhelmed with gratitude by our congregation’s generosity in gathering over 120 brand new children’s Bibles for the ministry of Urban Impact! The Bibles included both the Jesus Storybook Bible, which is great for our Pre-school and Kindergarten-age children, as well as the Children’s Adventure Bible, which is ideal for elementary-age youth. Already these Bibles are allowing us to place the life-altering Word of God into the hands and hearts of kids and families who might otherwise not have regular access to God’s Word.
Be encouraged that your investment in these Bibles will not come up void, as God’s Word is living and active, giving life to those who love Christ and are called according to His purposes. On behalf of the staff and volunteers of Urban Impact, and all of the youth and families we come alongside, thank you for your priceless gift of God’s Word!
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| Boys at Urban Impact show off their new Bibles! |
Food for Penn Hills Service Association
by Janie Mason
“Day by day the king gave Jehoiachin a regular allowance as long as he lived.” 2 Kings 25:30
Reflecting on 2 Kings 25:30, Charles Spurgeon notes that “Jehoiachin’s situation is ours; we have a sure portion, a portion given to us by the king, a gracious portion, and a perpetual portion. Here, surely, is grounds for thankfulness.”
With whatever provision God has supplied, we are called to share in His name with those in need. Only one aspect of that provision is enough food on our tables. For three weeks leading up to Thanksgiving last fall Hebron participated in a gather/give to benefit families served by Penn Hills Service Association. We who have a sufficient supply of food gave to help neighbors who do not. The children set the goal – 1705 non-perishable items. We are thankful! 2626 cans of soup, fruits, vegetables, etc. were given!
For over 50 years, Hebron member Ed Hoover has directed the work of the Association that distributes healthy foods, clothing, and medical supplies in their service area. Located at 2519 Universal Road, PHSA needs and appreciates donations of food and money year-round. To donate or to volunteer, please call 412-798-2711.
The gather/give was a blessing to those who gave as-- much as to those who received. We saw again with Holy Spirit eyes God’s provision for us. It is humbling that He uses us to serve others at their point of need. Spurgeon encourages us. “In Jesus all necessary things are laid up for you. So then enjoy your continual allowance. Never go hungry while the daily bread of grace is on the table of mercy.”
