It's Not "About Schmidt"

Friends of the Disabled Latin America
Wheelchair Distribution

Sell your possessions and give to the poor... For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Luke 12:33-3

In his Oscar nominated performance, Jack Nicholson portrays Warren Schmidt, a man whose life is in crisis. Trying desperately to establish meaning – he sponsors a poor child he sees on a late night television appeal for funds. Perhaps he can make a difference to somebody, somewhere. He receives a package of information and is encouraged to write to his child. Depressed, he writes only about his problems. His correspondences are all “About Schmidt”; how bad his life is going and how worthless he feels. In other parts of the world, children need a good meal, encouragement in their education, love, and above all Christ.

The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. Mark 14:7

All the Schmidt’s in America can’t change the world – only Jesus can! Our first ministry activity in Bolivia was at a Compassion International facility. A place where children are sponsored and receive a hot meal, help with schoolwork, and hear the Good News daily. We saw over 200 children that day. Many smiles, much laughter but also a few tears. I took one little girl on my lap and held her trying to impart some comfort and special recognition “you are dearly loved. You have not been forgotten.”

Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. Acts 10:4

You may not sponsor a child in a foreign land, but I hope you don’t question too often whether your life has value and if you are doing anything to make a difference in someone else’s life. You do make a difference! You did that day. You didn’t send an inappropriate letter all about you – you sent a person, who was glad to be your representative and to show the children – it’s all about HIM!