My name is Doreen DeBoer and I am the president of an organization known as All God’s People. This is a ministry that serves the homeless of Chicago.
I was blessed to have parents who raised their five daughters to be servants of God, to give back, and to share the love of Jesus. As little girls, we often went to the shelters to sing and serve food. Even then my heart was drawn to these dear people. We could not have had better examples of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. My husband, Kenny, and I also are blessed with five great children, who we pray have learned the same lesson our parents passed down to us, to serve in His name.
Several years ago, God placed a purpose on my heart. He called me to be a voice for our brothers and sisters who for whatever reason ended up on the streets and through it all trust Him. They know that He alone can protect, provide, and perform the miracles they are looking for. I have also learned that often the person who is the richest, is the one who is happy with the least.
Every second Saturday of the month, we distribute food, blankets, clothes, shoes, and toiletries to over 400 of those in need. We begin the day by joining hands in prayer. For many, this is the closest they have come to having a family in a long time. Every prayer is started by giving thanks for health, safety, and God’s faithfulness. This isn't planned, it comes from their hearts.
Homelessness can happen to anyone. While we might feel that we are far removed from it, the truth of the matter is, this could be our father, mother, brother, sister, or child. God allowed struggles in my own family because He had a plan for us to be a family to those who are struggling through similar circumstances.
The people we serve need to see Jesus Christ in us, giving a cup of cold water in His name, offering love, compassion, and prayers. Beth Moore teaches, "It is impossible to remember God and forget the poor. Not to stir up guilt, but to stir up giving. We who have, should open our hands in complete humility to those who don't."
There are many wonderful people who make this ministry possible. People who know we are here on earth to help one another. We have made lasting friendships and share a common direction and a sense of togetherness that allows us to get everything ready each month.
One thing we learn from homeless stories is that God has not forsaken them. If you find your heart has been tugged by the needs of the homeless, get involved with All God’s People. From the bottom of my heart and from each person whose life you will touch, thank you. We serve a marvelous God!
Jesus said, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me." Matthew 25:40
I was blessed to have parents who raised their five daughters to be servants of God, to give back, and to share the love of Jesus. As little girls, we often went to the shelters to sing and serve food. Even then my heart was drawn to these dear people. We could not have had better examples of what it means to be the hands and feet of Jesus. My husband, Kenny, and I also are blessed with five great children, who we pray have learned the same lesson our parents passed down to us, to serve in His name.
Several years ago, God placed a purpose on my heart. He called me to be a voice for our brothers and sisters who for whatever reason ended up on the streets and through it all trust Him. They know that He alone can protect, provide, and perform the miracles they are looking for. I have also learned that often the person who is the richest, is the one who is happy with the least.
Every second Saturday of the month, we distribute food, blankets, clothes, shoes, and toiletries to over 400 of those in need. We begin the day by joining hands in prayer. For many, this is the closest they have come to having a family in a long time. Every prayer is started by giving thanks for health, safety, and God’s faithfulness. This isn't planned, it comes from their hearts.
Homelessness can happen to anyone. While we might feel that we are far removed from it, the truth of the matter is, this could be our father, mother, brother, sister, or child. God allowed struggles in my own family because He had a plan for us to be a family to those who are struggling through similar circumstances.
The people we serve need to see Jesus Christ in us, giving a cup of cold water in His name, offering love, compassion, and prayers. Beth Moore teaches, "It is impossible to remember God and forget the poor. Not to stir up guilt, but to stir up giving. We who have, should open our hands in complete humility to those who don't."
There are many wonderful people who make this ministry possible. People who know we are here on earth to help one another. We have made lasting friendships and share a common direction and a sense of togetherness that allows us to get everything ready each month.
One thing we learn from homeless stories is that God has not forsaken them. If you find your heart has been tugged by the needs of the homeless, get involved with All God’s People. From the bottom of my heart and from each person whose life you will touch, thank you. We serve a marvelous God!
Jesus said, "Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for Me." Matthew 25:40
