cupcakes for africa

We talk about Africa a lot around our house. 

Our kids know that it exists. That it's far away. And that kids there have a lot of needs. 

They know that mommy went there once.

They know we support kids there.

They know our friends have gone there, lived there, and told stories about the work that's been done in Jesus' name, and through His love. 

They know their cousins' other cousins are adopted from there. 

They are beginning to see that there is a difference that they can make in the lives of others, not just locally, but around the world. 

And though they don't fully comprehend most of the reality of it all, they are at least beginning to. 

Christian in particular has asked to make cards for the kids in Africa, telling them about himself, and wanting to send them over. "Just put on the envelope: To the boys and girls in Africa"

So when I told him about the idea of selling cupcakes to raise money for some of those kids (through www.sixtyfeet.org), he thought it was a great idea.

He helped decorate them, got his cash register out, enthusiastically made the sign, and showed up ready to open up shop! 

At first both boys were apprehensive about the whole "yard sale" concept, all of the people coming up to them and asking questions, and the whole "transaction" idea.

About 30 minutes in, K still wanted me to hold him, and C still looked a little overwhelmed with the whole scene. He pulled me aside and whispered his concern in my ear.

"Mom, the cupcakes are for Africa... but everyone keeps eating them!"

Be still. My heart. 

He thought that somehow "Cupcakes for Africa" meant just that.... The cupcakes were FOR Africa.

I tried to explain to him again that it was the money that was going to help the children buy things they need more than cupcakes-- food, clothes, etc... 

but to him, cupcakes are far more valuable than green pieces of paper. 

To him, the real joy of giving would be to give someone something HE would love to receive. 

At least he knows one thing-- money can't buy happiness. 

Unfortunately neither can cupcakes. 

And that's where we all have a lot to learn. 

It's not about having more stuff, making more money, or achieving that goal you think is going to "complete you".  As we are constantly trying to tell our competitive oldest child, it's not all about winning or being the best. 

Contentment regardless of your circumstances, Love given unconditionally, and the Peace that can only come from knowing God as good, faithful and sovereign. Laying your life down for the betterment of another brings more happiness than hoarding your treasures and scraping for more ever could. 

Our friend David recently left us after his 2 year battle with cancer. And yet, in those 2 years he reached more people with the hope and love of God, and the confidence that HE was worth trusting, regardless of what unfolded. He lived his life to the fullest, with passion, and urgency, and continual investment in others. He leaves behind a legacy for his wife and 4 small kids-- that true happiness is loving God and loving people. 

Thank you, David,  SixtyFeet, The Cupcake Kids, and Katie Seevers for giving us the chance to grow a little more in those things this weekend!