“If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.”
-John 12:26 (NIV)
Teaching my boys to serve others is quite possibly one of my favorite jobs as a mom. Not only does it provide me the opportunity to leave an important imprint upon them, but in turn, my boys have learned to leave one of their own-both on the community in which they live in, and the world that surrounds them.
Besides, it’s all about becoming the hands and feet of Jesus to someone (or something) who may need it the most. It’s about placing others first, thinking of their needs before our own, and exhibiting the love the Bible encourages us to exude.
But what kind of service projects can our boys partake in? What’s something they can really get involved with, enjoy, and serve others by doing?
I’m so glad you asked.
As I thought about these questions myself [and contemplated the ages of my own boys (4 and 8)], I knew I wanted to assist them in creating a project that would combine an interest of theirs, with a special cause in our community…and one that would most certainly grow near and dear to all of our hearts in the process thereof.
But it was at that point that I began struggling with ideas-as it became apparent that I needed some inspiration of sorts (an “a-ha” moment if you will). So, as I meandered down the hall, and took a look around their rooms, I began to notice one thing that stood out above the rest: my boys loved of superheroes. Spiderman, Superman, and Batman not only graced their walls, but infested their toy boxes as well.
And that’s when it clicked.
I mean who else epitomizes the definition of what a superhero really looks like than a young man who may be fighting an illness, a disease, or recovering from a surgery of some type? Sidelined “Superheroes” like these are always in need of some cheering up, not to mention feeling a tad bit of normalcy in that hospital room they’re staying in. These “Superheroes” need a “Super Kit” they can get excited about. One that will keep them busy, entertained, and lift their spirits too.
Wanna know more? Here’s a list of instructions to help guide you (and your boys) along the way:
The Superhero Kit
1.) The Group: Have your son band together with a group of friends on his baseball team, Boy Scouts pack, or even kids from his classroom in order to make and distribute these very special kits. Indeed, many hands make light work, so recruit some friends and let the service begin.
2.)The Gear: You’ll need a pillowcase (sporting your favorite superhero of course), or a nifty bag like the one found here (and pictured above) by Laura Lee Creates. Or better yet, channel that inner seamstress within (or ask a handy, dandy friend of yours) to whip up a bunch of these satchels. Make them bright, cheerful, fun, and just plain super!
3.) The Goods: As we already know, boys are very active creatures which means they need some activities to do while they’re recovering. Fill your bag with fun goodies to help keep their minds off of where they’re at (or why they’re there). Purchase a deck of cards, jacks, marbles, a whoopee cushion, silly putty, crossword puzzles, coloring books, paper airplane supplies, or an origami set. Basically anything they can do to keep their hands busy, and their minds happy. Oh, and don’t forget to throw in a cape, mask, or any other fun superhero item they can don for the remainder of their stay.
4.) The Greeting: Your boy(s) should include a note…a greeting of sorts letting their superhero know that they’re prayed for, thought of, and loved. Include a bible in their kit, or have your guy place his favorite piece of Scripture inside. Let your superhero know how much God loves him, as well as the countless number of new friends that are rooting for him.
When it comes to assembling Super Kits like these, the possibilities are endless…and they don’t have to break the bank either. By visiting the Dollar Store, you’ll be able to score some great trinkets to help fill those sacks and get your superheroes smiling once again. And by implementing a project like this in your community (and beyond), your boys will not only make a valuable contribution (and learn the importance of giving to others), but also the difference they can make in the lives of those receiving their gifts. In fact, not only will a lesson be learned by all of those involved, but more than likely, it will be passed on as well.
And Amen for that!
So, what do you think, moms? Is this a project your boys would like to get on board with or what?
This is a great idea! I love the inclusion of a superhero mask and cape. What better way to make a recovering child feel strong. Do you think anything biblical might be okay to include? For instance, my son is continuously outgrowing children’s bibles and moving on to the next level up. Would a used book work? My son loves to know that God’s word is his sword and that makes him feel strong.
This might be a stupid question, but do you need hospital permission first?
Christie´s last [type] ..Free Valentine Scripture iPhone Wallpaper
Hi Christie,
Yes, by all means, include a bible in there and I think a used one would be perfectly fine. In fact, it actually might be better-especially if your son has highlighted his favorite passages.
I also think it’s a “must” to contact the hospital you are donating to and see what rules/restrictions they may have on this sort of thing. We did so prior to and it’s a very smart step to take.
Enjoy the project and God Bless!
Jenny Lee Sulpizio´s last [type] ..When Mom’s Rock Out…
Hi Jenny,
Thank you for sharing your post with me. This is a fabulous idea indeed.
What a fun way to incorporate ministry in their lives.
God bless you as you minister to others.
Love, Hester
Thanks so much for stopping by, Hester and so glad you like the idea. Continued blessings to you…J
Jenny Lee Sulpizio´s last [type] ..NEW RELEASE: The Valentine Challenge
Thank you for such a great idea!! I’m going to do this at my son’s upcoming birthday party…I’m SO excited about it!!!!
Such a great idea, Heather and I love that you are incorporating it into your son’s birthday party! Kudos and I hope it’s a hit!
Jenny Lee Sulpizio´s last [type] ..NEW RELEASE: The Valentine Challenge
whoops…forgot to mention an important detail…his birthday party is going to be a Superhero theme
Jenny, this is an awesome idea! What a fun way to teach your boys about serving others. And I love the idea of your boys teaming up with their baseball team or some other group to include others in the service, too!
Thanks, Laura! I think it’s such a special project, with a whole lot of fun for everyone involved. Blessings-J
Jenny Lee Sulpizio´s last [type] ..NEW RELEASE: The Valentine Challenge
Awsome idea, here is a question. Most hospitals and even shelters here in San Diego do not allow kids under 12 to volunteer. And I think thats honestly party of the joy of helping amd giving is being able to witness God love amd see the others reaction. 619-301-0555 please let me know if you know where young ones can help
Tammy,
In our situation, the kids couldn’t actually deliver to the boys in their rooms…the nurses did it instead. But, what you could do is have your son include a picture of himself, his email, and a request that the patent keep in touch with him…pen pals of sorts.
In your area, Rady’s Children’s Hospital would be the best bet and I know they do take donations (my daughter was a patient there and received a stuffed animal at Christmas time). Give them a call and see what you can do.
Thanks for the interest and God Bless as you take on this project. It’s awesome!
Jenny Lee Sulpizio´s last [type] ..NEW RELEASE: The Valentine Challenge
Oh this is wonderful! I love it! I am always trying to think of ideas that are DO-able and this is totally do-able! I can’t wait to get started!!
Aloha!
monica´s last [type] ..Weight Issues and Mind Games.
So glad you like, Monica and I know both you and your boys will have a blast putting these together. Blessings to your family…J
Jenny Lee Sulpizio´s last [type] ..NEW RELEASE: The Valentine Challenge