Weekly Reflection: The Power of Purpose Shaped by Pain

This week's message beautifully reminded us that service is one of the purest forms of expressing God's love. The emphasis was on Convoy of Hope, the 27th largest nonprofit in the United States, driven by compassion, humility, and a steadfast dedication to aiding those in greatest need. However, what touched me the most was the story of its founder, Hal Donaldson.

When Hal was only 12, his life was turned upside down when a drunk driver took his father's life. His mother suddenly found herself as a single parent, juggling several jobs to maintain the family. There were times when they had no food, times when hope seemed elusive, and times when simply making it through the day felt like a triumph. Yet, amidst these challenging times, Hal experienced a unique kind of miracle.

He witnessed the love of Jesus manifested through people.

Neighbors who provided meals. Strangers who offered help. Communities that stepped in to fill the voids. Their acts of kindness didn’t eliminate the pain—but they transformed it. Those initial moments of compassion sowed a seed in Hal that would eventually grow into a purpose far greater than his suffering.

From that seed, Convoy of Hope was born. Today, it feeds millions of children, responds to global disasters, empowers women to create sustainable futures, and assures the vulnerable that they are not forgotten. What began as a young boy’s struggle evolved into a worldwide movement of love and restoration.

This narrative serves as a reminder of a truth we frequently overlook:

Our suffering can transform into our purpose.

Our challenges can turn into our testimony.

Our struggles can lead to our harvest.

Each of us faces challenges like loss, betrayal, heartbreak, financial struggles, illness, or loneliness at some point. However, how we respond to these experiences defines the legacy we create. Will we allow them to make us rigid, or will we let them mold us? Will we clench our fists, or will we open our hands?

Hal Donaldson decided to extend his generosity.

He reminds us that being generous goes beyond monetary contributions. It is a tangible demonstration of hope—a smile, a meal, time, or a helping hand. It restores dignity, opens doors, strengthens communities, and embodies love in action.

This week, he invited us to join in that mission.

Donate a day's income to help feed children globally—dedicate one day of your blessings to transform someone else's life. One day of your abundance can provide another child with the hope to dream, grow, and live without hunger.

It's a straightforward invitation, yet it holds great power. Giving awakens something within us. It brings alignment. It heals.

This week, I'm contemplating how suffering can be the foundation for growing compassion. How God can transform even our most painful experiences into a purpose that extends beyond ourselves. And how serving others draws us nearer to the heart of Jesus—because He was the first to serve.

Call to Action

This week, take some time to contemplate your personal journey:

• What pain has influenced your life?

• What difficulties have taught you empathy?

• What challenges could be turned into your mission?

Allow your story to motivate service. Let your experiences lead you to your purpose.

Turn your blessings into someone else's miracle.

Here is the link if you would like to hear about his story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JJ3Yiw6w1Xg