Doves, I am making a request here because I believe it is the thing to do. The Bible tells us we have not because we ask not, James 4:2.  We are also told to make our requests known, Phil. 4:6. Two years ago I made a request on behalf of some friends, some of you may remember. They were two Mexican ladies who were about to be evicted around Christmas time and their heat had already been cut off, but you all opened your hearts and your pocketbooks and helped out. We were able to see that the heat and power were back on the next day, the rent was paid for two months, they had groceries, and they and the children had the nicest Christmas they ever had. One of the ladies, who had been single, went back to Mexico, got married, and now has a baby. The other lady was reunited with her husband, the kid's father, and last I heard he had work. Many times they told me how grateful they were. They could not believe that total strangers would help them, but I explained that it was the love of Jesus that prompted the outpouring of generosity.
    I believe this is how we are to take care of one another: help when we have an abundance, and when the time comes that we are lacking, then others will help us. I recently read a heartfelt plea from a struggling single mom who was asking those who were able, to help her give her kids a nice Christmas. I contacted her, found out that she lives a few hours away, and asked her what she wanted. She said she is in school, is overwhelmed with bills and having a hard time just getting by with nothing extra for her two kids. All she wants are some clothes and some educational toys. I told her I could not promise anything as I am a struggling mom also, but that I would see what I can do.
     I wondered how in the world I can make good on that, when I am having a hard time getting by, trying to get a new home business effort off the ground and at the same time come up with the money to take a much-needed trip to be with my husband in Mexico. Without going into a lot of details, suffice it to say we have been apart for one year, and as his legal residence papers are in limbo at the moment, he cannot return here legally until the government red tape is sorted out. But I can go to him, if everything falls into place.
    Several of you are already familiar with my situation, and several have told me they believe the Lord is telling me to go now to Mexico, and have sent donations towards the trip, which will cost about  $1500. With that amount and a few hundred more I can go, knowing all my bills are paid, and at the same time also help this mother and her children. I know there are some of you who could give the entire amount and never miss it. Others could give a little and that would be like the widow giving her mite, as it was all she had. I know that if this is the Lord's way, then He will lay it upon the hearts of those who are willing to help to make several moms happy this Christmas.
    Anyone who is interested in giving, you can email me and arrange to make donations at Paypal through my email address:
elenalareina@comcast.net
 
    Anyone who prefers to send a check can do so by mailing a letter to:
Ellen Gonzalez
5152 Station Circle
Norcross Ga
30071
 
   Anyone who has children's clothes for a little 5 year old girl, size 4T, and a 6 year old boy, size 6, or any kind of toys she is wanting for them can send them to me at the above address and I will make a box to send directly to the young mother. They can be wrapped or unwrapped. In fact, I may even make the trip in person. Donations can be designated however you want any monies to be spent, and all will be gratefully appreciated. Thanks in advance, and may the Lord multiply blessings back to all.
Ellen Gonzalez