Frustrating. Annoying, Tedious. Never-ending. These are the words that come to mind when I think about tackling my laundry. The piles and piles of laundry that three little boys and two adults can have is staggering and overwhelming at times. It’s not a chore I like or look forward to, in fact its a chore I usually put off until everyone is down to our “second string” wardrobe.
Yesterday, though, I did laundry and it felt holy and sacred. Yesterday, the clothes I washed and folded felt like prayers being sent up. Yesterday, doing laundry was not a chore, it was a privilege.
My sister and I spent yesterday morning washing laundry at Clean of Heart. Clean of Heart is a much needed ministry that provides laundry and shower services to the homeless population of Columbia, They provide a place where men and women can come to feel clean and fresh and renewed. Most of the homeless shelters in Columbia do not have the capabilities to provide a laundry service. So people may find a place to sleep and shower, but then they have to put on dirty clothes. Serving at Clean of Heart was a beautiful experience. The director and other volunteers truly modeled what it means to be a servant. Every action was filled with love. Each person who walked through the door was treated with dignity, respect, and esteem. Laundry and showers are not the only services provided at Clean of Heart. They are providing hugs, conversation, homemade treats, understanding, smiles, and coffee (ahh, truly after my own heart). If you would like to be a part of the amazing work Clean of Heart is doing, they are always in need of donations. Here is a list of items currently needed:
Putting together blessing bags for Clean of Heart to distribute to their clients would be a really great way to get your children involved in the giving/serving. These are Ziploc bags filled with things like travel size toiletries, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb, individually wrapped snacks, Chapstick, and packages of tissues. I think it’s important to instill from a young age the lesson that ALL people are important and worthwhile.
Jesus set the example for us when He knelt before the disciples and washed their dirty, cracked, and calloused feet. He taught us there is great beauty in serving one another. He told us:
“I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do.” John 13:15
Jesus washed feet, so I will gladly and joyfully wash socks.
Learning From Flowers 