"...to whom much is given...will much be required..."
Luke 12:48 (RSV)

The year 2007 was a fruitful one as HOPE worldwide advanced the cause of the poor around the world. Truly, God has blessed HOPE worldwide and its mission to serve the poor in many ways during 2007 and we feel well-positioned for success in the future.

However, as we consider all that we have been given, the admonition above in Luke 12:48 has been ringing in my ears - "What does God require of us as we enter 2008?" How we answer this question is so important that I want to humbly request your prayers as we seek the best answers on behalf of the poor.

One answer came to mind when my wife and I visited Afghanistan last year. The inspiring work in Afghanistan, lead by Dan and Mary Allison, is worthy of great respect. However, what really drew my attention was the distinctive way in which the diverse members of the Afghan staff embraced sharing values.

As I sat on the floor in meetings—with Afghans and Americans, Indians and Pakistanis, Muslims and Christians—I was deeply moved by the loving and respectful fellowship of men and women that had effectively removed the barriers of politics, race, ethnicity and religion. Instead of finding hatred and conflict, it was evident that Dan and Mary had influenced their Afghan staff with their core values of cooperation, kindness, selflessness, compassion, hope and love.

I am inspired to think that in 2008, every time a HOPE worldwide worker or volunteer provides much-needed services to the poor, he or she will also have an opportunity to share the values that motivate our work. This approach will allow us to bring hope and change lives in the communities that we serve one life at a time.

Another answer is reflected in the special opportunity that we have to serve the many sponsoring churches and their members who support our work around the world. An exciting example is the upcoming International Campus Ministers Conference (ICMC) that is planned for the July 4th weekend in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The conference coordinators expect to have more than 1,000 campus students in attendance, and have decided to incorporate a day of service during the ICMC.

HOPE worldwide has stepped forward to provide service opportunities through its ongoing Katrina-recovery work in New Orleans. It’s exciting to imagine not only the impact on New Orleans of more than 1,000 enthusiastic volunteers helping to rebuild the Lower 9th Ward on a single day, but also the potential life-long impact on the campus students who will experience firsthand the joy of serving others. Through similar youth-oriented programs, like the HOPE Youth Corps, HOPE worldwide has opportunities to impact whole generations with a heart for service.

Maybe you have additional answers to the question of "What does God require of HOPE worldwide?" I invite you to contact us with your thoughts and suggestions. We look forward to a great year together in 2008. On behalf of the entire HOPE worldwide team, we thank you for your many prayers and support.

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