“..you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.” Philippians 4:8 (The Message)
Every day we share stories of hope – joy – Love! Enjoy some GOOD NEWS each day with LifeSongs.
Friday, December 20, 2024
Moms helping other moms is always good news! A trend was born out of Nashville when Denaesha Gonzalez saw evidence of a selfless choice at her local Target. Denaesha found an abandoned purse next to the diaper display. Obviously a mom had opted to get the needed diapers over the cute little clutch. That is just one of a million selfless decisions moms have to make.
But this touched a tender spot in Danaesha’s heart. In her heart she wanted that mom to have the best of everything – the diapers she needed and the purse she wanted! She shared a video about this moment and went mega viral. But even better than online attention – Danaesha’s post sparked generosity!
Another social media mom bought a $100 gift card, wrote an encouraging note and hid it on the diaper aisle of her local store. It became the #shedeservedthepurse challenge which now has over 150 others on TikTok doing the same secret gift giving!
@denaeshagonzalez To the Mother who chose themselves last, you deserve the world tonight and always. #motherhood #motherhoodunplugged #parenting #parentsoftiktok ♬ original sound –
Thursday, December 19, 2024
19-year-old Reed Marcum out of McAlester, OK wanted to make this Christmas a very merry Christmas for all kids in his community – so he put on a toy drive and proceeded to host the biggest 4-H toy giveaway in Oklahoma history!
Reed and his 4-H group gave away over 15,000 toys to kids and families over the course of one glorious weekend! And this isn’t the first time Reed has played Santa for his community – he’s been doing toy drives since he was only 11 years old.
On top of giving away tens of thousands of toys over the years, Reed has also raised over $3.5 million in funds and donated goods, including an annual book bag giveaway. Reed is now a pre-law sophomore at Oklahoma State University. He hopes to defend the helpless in courtrooms one day.
Wednesday, December 18, 2024
A Missouri school held multiple meetings with parents over what to rename their K-8th school building – and in the end it was a unanimous decision. They named the school after their beloved, longtime custodian, Claudene Wilson!
The ribbon cutting ceremony at Claudene Wilson Learning Center was a sweet and emotional moment for Claudene and all who love her … which is everybody in this community! The 64-year-old has served the school as the chief custodian and janitor, plumber, landscaper, school bus driver, cafeteria worker and perhaps most important to the kids – door greeter every single morning!
The kids love and trust Claudene – she is the ultimate school MVP and now the school bears her name in big silver letters!
Tuesday, December 17, 2024
Bekah is an army wife. Her husband Chris is deployed overseas, leaving her lonely on her 30th birthday. It’s hard to be thirty and flirty and thriving when you are all on your own. Thankfully Bekah has the BEST in-laws.
Her mother and father-in-law drove 17 hours to celebrate Bekah on her big day! Shout out to all of our military families that have celebrated big moments without their spouse or parent – but have had great friends and family stand in the gap.
Monday, December 16, 2024
Bill and his wife Becky have been married for over 50 years and together have tried to visit every state capital in the US. It’s number one on their bucket list – and time is running out, as Bill is terminally ill. Their local Chickfila in Houston, TX stepped up to get the precious couple the last capital on their list: Juneau, Alaska!
Because of Bill’s illness the couple can no longer travel long distances, so the team at Chickfila reached out to the Alaska State Capital employees and sent a copy of Bill and Becky’s wedding photo. Alaskan capital employees snapped photos with the couple’s picture at various sites in front of the Capital building, signed the couple into the visitors’ log and sent a bundle of souvenirs from the gift shop back to Texas.
The Houston Chickfila team even commissioned a drawing of the couple standing at the Mendenhall Glacier in Alaska and presented all of these gifts to their very special customers – who were thrilled to get their 50th capital.
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Today's Good News - Heroes & Helpers
Share your GOOD NEWS stories! Tell us about the Helpers & Heroes in your life - folks that make a difference - so we can share the good news!
Friday, December 13, 2024
Summer Clayton founded Dinner with Dad on social media under the name YourProudDad and now has peaceful meals with 2.4 million kids and adults alike. Summer’s premise is simple – he sets two plates on the table – one for him and one for you. He prays a prayer of thanksgiving for the food and then as he dines – chats with his viewers.
His followers have posted about how nice it feels to be asked about their day and to have a peaceful meal that feels like real family time. Summer has also posted some simple how to videos as the internet’s favorite Dad. He’s taught followers how to shave, tie a tie and offer wisdom and encouragement.
Thursday, December 12, 2024
Most of us do the bulk of our Christmas shopping from our phones – and like magic the gifts show up in boxes at our front door! But it is not magic – it’s hard work done by folks like Brandon who works for UPS in Red Wing, MN.
A 14 year old girl named Mari Hanson decided to honor the brown-shorts-wearing delivery man with a custom art installation by her mailbox. The artistic teen created a diorama art box entitled “Petite Postal Place Featuring: Brandon.”
Brandon was blown away by the girl’s kindness and talent – snapping picks with the art installation to share with all of his friends.
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
3-year-old John Coleman is a happy little boy. He’s got a ton of toys to play with, but everything stops every Tuesday morning – garbage pick-up day. John has been a fan of the big lime green trucks that pick up their garbage for his entire life.
Every week John runs out to greet his garbage collector, Craig Hodges. John demands a big hug and usually brings Craig a snack, like an apple or some other treat. Then Craig lets John toot the truck’s horn before he is tearfully pulled away by his mom.
When John began pre-school he was no longer around on Tuesday mornings, which bummed out Craig and John both. So Craig worked with his bosses to change his pick-up route so he could end the day at John’s house after he got back from school!
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
Most brides do not want any sort of surprise at their wedding – after spending countless hours putting together their dream wedding, most would not welcome unexpected guests interrupting the ceremony – but when Cintia Pereira saw the surprise guests her husband-to-be arranged to crash the wedding, she burst into happy tears!
Cintia is a speech therapist in Brazil. She works with a lot of special needs kids, many with Down’s syndrome. When it came time for the ring bearer to walk down the aisle, Cintia got a parade of her students all dressed to the nines. Her husband had planned the whole thing out for months!
Monday, December 9, 2024
If you are going to build playgrounds for kids it makes sense to have your kids actually design the playground of their dreams! 11-year-old Rosili Olson put crayons to paper to show what she felt would be the perfect playground for little kids in her Utah neighborhood. Rosili has a little sister and wants only the best for her!
Mom and Rosili visited their City Hall and met with the Parks Department. They had a budget but no design … until Rosili handed them her drawing! The city put the new playground near the Olson’s house with the right slides, climbing structures and color scheme put together by the awesome big-sister – who even got to be a part of the ribbon cutting ceremony with her little sister.
Friday, December 6, 2024
What’s cooler than being an astronaut? Being a high-fashion designer astronaut, of course. Luxury fashion house Prada and commercial space company Axiom Space have unveiled the designs for a spacesuit that will be worn for NASA’s Artemis III moon mission.
The slick-looking suits include a range of innovative features and will allow astronauts to spacewalk for at least eight hours a day due to specially engineered boots. The suits will be made with a white material able to reflect heat, offering protection from extremely high temperatures and lunar dust.
Plus, a brand like Prada knows a thing or two about textiles, and their understanding of fabrics and sewing techniques showcased the practical side of fashion. “This is a groundbreaking partnership,” said Russel Ralston, executive vice president of Axiom Space, about the collaboration. “We’re blending engineering, science and art.”
Thursday, December 5, 2024
Jamie Lynn Dorr and her husband moved to a new town. Starting over is hard for anyone. Now add a special needs child to the mix. Their son Bowen had many challenges, but God put an angel of a person in this family’s life – Bowen’s teacher Holly Allgood.
Holly practically adopted Jamie Lynn and her son. She walked them through many challenges. When Bowen’s health took a turn, Ms. Holly would Facetime with the little boy every day from his hospital bed.
Bowen needed a liver transplant and neither of his parents were a match. One guess who was… Holly Allgood!
Jaimie Lynn says “Holly Allgood isn’t just [Bowen’s] teacher, she’s not just our friend, but truly our hero and is laying her life down to give Bowen life and I am grateful Bowen will have a piece of her always.”
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
In 1996, Master Sergeant Gordon Storey was tasked with launching and leading a volunteer program on Dyess Air Force Base in Texas. He barely knew where to start. And yet, nearly 30 years later, the Dyess We Care Team is going strong. With the help of 15,000 volunteers, his nonprofit has completed hundreds of projects for the elderly and others in need in and around Abilene, Texas.
However, that’s not the only benefit of the program. Storey explains that having community outreach opportunities can significantly improve an airman’s mental health. He’s seen and experienced firsthand how isolation and monotony can lead airmen to feel unhappy and unfulfilled, sometimes leading to dangerous behaviors like substance abuse. Working together and doing something that results in tangible good is a game changer.
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
YOU are the Good News Story today! When you give to LifeSongs on #GivingTuesday, you help spread the Gospel through music and ministry – AND on Giving Tuesday, we’ll send you a special present for your gift – the limited edition 2024 LifeSongs Christmas Ornament!
Ooooh! Aaaah! Just imagine how nice that will look on your Christmas tree!
GIVE NOW on Giving Tuesday!
Monday, December 2, 2024
It all started out of boredom. Manuel Vera was stuck at home in Silver Springs, MD during the COVID lockdown. The 74-year-old retiree needed something to do with his hands and wanted to help out his neighbors. So the handyman started asking around for old and broken bikes. He took the donated wheels into his backyard shed and got to work.
Manuel restored bike after bike – and offered them up for free to kids and adults who needed some pedal powered transportation. Around this time there was an influx of refugees from Afghanistan. These families had nothing – and no way to get to work or school. So Manuel began more large scale bike giveaways to serve these new neighbors.
Now Silver Springs all know Manuel as “The Bike Dude” who has provided more than 700 restored bikes to people of all walks … or rides… of life. Some people use the bikes for exercise – others for necessary transportation, but all of them are grateful. And Manuel is just happy to be of service.
THANKSGIVING/BLACK FRIDAY
Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Almost a decade ago we first heard the story of how Wanda and Jamal became family. Wanda “The Thanksgiving Grandma” accidentally texted the wrong number – Jamal’s number – to invite one of her grandchildren to Thanksgiving dinner. Jamal befriended Wanda and the 16 year old didn’t have any Thanksgiving plans – so he began a tradition of joining the Dench family each year.
Their friendship has only grown. Together this unlikely pair have been there for each other through good and bad times – like when Wanda’s husband Lonnie passed away in 2020 from COVID.
This year the Thanksgiving celebration is even more important as Wanda, now in her mid 60s, is battling breast cancer. Jamal will be there with the rest of the family to give Thanks for another year of having such love in their lives. And Wanda is using their online fame to encourage other women to continue getting checked each year – catching breast cancer early can save your life.
Tuesday, November 26, 2024
In Kenya, young Lemashon was among a group of boys and girls who received shoebox gifts in their extremely remote village. He was overjoyed by the presents he pulled from his shoebox, but even that was not the best part of the outreach event for him. It was the first time he’d heard about Jesus Christ, and his heart was glad to receive Him as Lord and Savior. Lemashon immediately enrolled in The Greatest Journey to learn more about the King of kings. He then started sharing the Gospel with his family, friends, and neighbors who had never heard the Name of Jesus Christ.
Lemashon’s passionate words are reaching those who have felt lost in despair for so long. His encounter with Christ through Operation Christmas Child has paved the way for the Gospel to shine forth.
Even though collection week is over – you can still pack a shoebox gift with OCC – with some online shoebox shopping!
Monday, November 25, 2024
In 1993 the very first Operation Christmas Child shoebox gifts were delivered. Now, more than 30 years later, the ministry has grown by leaps and bounds and crossed a major milestone – the 200 MILLIONTH shoebox gift packed and delivered! Let that giant number sink in – 200 million Christmas presents…
Elizabeth Goff is on an international tour working for Operation Christmas Child to celebrate the 200 millionth shoebox gift. When Elizabeth was a young girl in a Ukrainian orphanage, she received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox gift – and has since joined the hard working team to share the Gospel around the globe. She is traveling the country sharing her story – packing more gifts – and she hand delivered the ceremonial 200 millionth OCC gift to a child in her home country – war-torn Ukraine.
Elizabeth reminds people at each packing stop that this gift is not just going to make it a special Christmas for a child – but that an entire community will learn about Jesus and witness His love in action because of the work being done through Samaritan’s Purse. Today is the last official day of National Collection Week – but you can still build a shoebox gift online – any day or time of the year!
Friday, November 22, 2024
Leila Mae Cummings is a 98 year old Greensboro, NC native who loves sharing Jesus with kids around the world through Operation Christmas Child. She packs hundreds of gifts, year round. She grew up on a farm, so she likes the hard work. This past year she packed almost 900 shoebox gifts all by herself!
Leila Mae loves putting together gifts for children and says she hopes God lets her keep on working until it’s her time to go home.
Thursday, November 21, 2024
In the heart of the Huasteca jungle, Operation Christmas Child partners with local churches to share the Gospel – and give Christmas presents to children – all in their native languages.
Wherever the Gospel is shared – lives are transformed – and the jungles of Mexico are suddenly bursting with new life because of the shoebox gifts you put together!
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Saliha received an Operation Christmas Child shoebox gift and it completely changed the course of her life! As a young teen in Central Asia, Saliha was overjoyed to be given such a gift – that included her favorite gift ever – a new kite! Even better – the relationships she made at her new church helped her not feel so alone.
Saliha’s family was broken by divorce when she was very young. Her mother moved overseas to earn enough money to care for Saliha and her younger brother – who went to live with the aunt. With a lovely kite in hand and Jesus in her heart, Saliha made close friends that helped her remain joyful as she grew.
Now Saliha is married with a child of her own – and busy finishing her studies at University. She plans to become a teacher – and also teach about Jesus at her church.
Tuesday, November 19, 2024
When Hurricane Otis slammed Mexico in October of 2023 – many families lost everything. Acapulco went from being a jewel of the coast to shattered homes and muddied roads. Now whenever there is a thunderstorm, families huddle close with PTSD.
But these families also witnessed God’s people hard at work for their benefit. Hours after the storm cleared, workers poured in to help clean and rebuild. Pastors Ulises and Yesenia drove down to the hardest hit town of La Barra de Coyuca with supplies loaded in their car.
They organized Operation Christmas Child for the communities to get clothes and replace all the toys these children lost in the storm. Samaritan’s Purse was able to equip over 300 churches in the area and mobilized hundreds of volunteers to continually help these communities.
Monday, November 18, 2024
Pastor Jacob, his family and a small ministry team had the unenviable task of getting Operation Christmas Child gifts and resources to a hidden Filipino community, nestled in the mountain forest. There are no roads – only 35 miles of slippery, muddy forest trails.
Pastor Jacob built a container wrack for his dirt bike and loaded up as many gifts as it would carry before setting out on the perilous mountain journey to deliver the gifts and the gospel. Fifteen times the dirt bike tipped over and had to be reloaded. Eventually the motorcycle could go no further and the team carried loads by hand up the dangerous trail.
They crossed three rivers, fighting to keep the goods safe and dry. But eventually the team arrived with Christmas in tow! The Gospel was shared – miraculous healings happened in the village too! The response from this remote village was so great that the locals began harvesting lumber to build their own church building in the center of the hidden town.
Friday, November 15, 2024
Esmerelda, her daughter Fernanda and their neighbors will never forget the night Hurricane Otis hit their community just outside of Acapulco. 10 year old Fernanda was terrified as she and her mom hid underneath the bed as winds ripped their roof clean off. Buried in mud along with all of their belongings – they were rescued by Esmerelda’s father and gathered, now homeless with the rest of the family in a shelter near by.
Samaritan’s Purse was on the ground hours after the storm moved away – providing food, clothing and resources for the devastated community. One night the family was invited to a local church for Operation Christmas Child. Esmerelda hadn’t seen her daughter smile and laugh with her friends since the storm. Fernanda’s gift box had some toys, socks and most importantly – a notebook and colored pencils. The little artist was thrilled!
Thursday, November 14, 2024
Operation Christmas Child has been delivering shoebox gifts to Cambodia for many years – planting churches and providing care for people in the most rural locations. 14-year-old Makara remembers getting his first Christmas present and hearing about God’s love.
Makara shared how he was so lonely and hurt when his parents got divorced when he was 9. His home was not a place of love. But he recognized the Love of Jesus as real and lasting – gave his life to Christ and found a hope and joy he never knew existed.
Wednesday, November 13, 2024
Most of Grenada’s diverse agriculture comes from the lush volcanic soil in St. Andrew. But don’t let the beauty and bounty fool you – there’s a dark side to this island village.
Poverty, crime, drug use, gambling and abusive homes abound in St. Andrew. Looking just beneath the surface this tropical paradise is becoming a paradise lost. The ones who suffer the most from these conditions are children – many are completely neglected as their parents fight for survival.
But when Operation Christmas Child visits the local churches and delivers Christmas and a message of hope – you can feel the shift in attitude. Kids laugh and play – parents are mentored – the world gets a little bit brighter as these families come to know Jesus through a simple shoebox gift. Plus local pastors like John Braithwaite are getting long term support with ministry partners!
Tuesday, November 12, 2024
Years ago Pastor Paata gave a young deaf boy a shoebox gift. That gift changed Akaki’s life. Now a young man, Akaki serves alongside Pastor Paata to bring Jesus to the country of Georgia – specifically to the deaf community!
Akaki remembers that his favorite part of the gift he received so many years ago was not the great toys – it was a picture of a family from America. He couldn’t read the letter inside – he would learn English later. But he saw a family who he instinctively knew truly loved him.
That love changed him – brought him to Jesus – and now he shares that love with his people. Akaki suggests picture books and comics for kids who can’t read yet.
Monday, November 11, 2024
Seven volunteers and an Operation Christmas Child coordinator loaded up two cars and a pick-up truck with shoebox gifts, groceries and supplies and headed into an active war zone. The exact locations are kept quiet due to sensitive political and safety reasons. Their small convoy was ushered into a bombed out town by police.
The town was mostly rubble. People were living in tents. A portion of the population had evacuated to another neighboring village, where Operation Christmas Child was able to meet the needs of over 100 children and their families. They prayed with the shell-shocked. They served food and medical care. All the while they could hear bombs and gunfire in the distance.
When asked why these missionaries would voluntarily go into danger to deliver Hope to children they responded “The Lord has called us to bring peace and restoration to the places where war brought destruction.”
Friday, November 8, 2024
If you are going to accept a missionary position, there probably aren’t as many sweet assignments as French Polynesia. Just a 90 minute boat ride away from where the Olympic surf competition was held is a cluster of small villages in Tahiti where Operation Christmas Child is sharing Jesus, along with wonderful gifts for children.
Samaritan’s Purse has been investing in these villages for 2 years now, with families begging for extra Greatest Journey classes for all of their children. For these kids, the presents are nice, but learning about Jesus and finding a loving community in Christ is worth more than gold!
Thursday, November 7, 2024
Pastor Roger and his wife Shirley – along with dozens of parents had happy tears pouring down their faces as they watched their children open Operation Christmas Child presents. Pure joy rang out as kids laughed and played and celebrated Christmas in the streets of San Lorenzo, Paraguay.
Pastor Roger has served Iglesia de Dios with dwindling hope. Despair filled the city and the church was preparing to close its doors for good. But God reignited the spirit of this poor neighborhood in South America through Operation Christmas Child. Just this year over 183,000 gifts were given out and the faith of the young people of Paraguay will shape this country’s future!
Wednesday, November 6, 2024
The Caucasus region of Asia Minor has not always been receptive to the Gospel. Parts of Georgia and Azerbaijan have been wedged between the Soviets and the Middle East with centuries of tension and conflict. But thanks to Christmas presents through Operation Christmas Child, that has begun to change.
One of the church leaders in a small gathering of believers is 15 year old Ketevan. She was introduced to Jesus when she was just six years old and got her first Operation Christmas Child gift. It wasn’t just the school supplies and cute gloves that made her happy – it was the idea that someone loved her because Jesus loved her. She wanted that too. She chose that.
Now this teenager helps a full-time missionary to her region, who happens to be Korean. Together they lead weekend worship services and share Jesus with the young community. They pray for and expect a nationwide revival.
Tuesday, November 5, 2024
Genaro grew up on coffee plantations in Mexico. As a young man he was diagnosed with terminal cancer. His father could do nothing but pray. Genaro Sr. recruited every friend and pastor he could find to pray for his dying son.
And God did a miracle! There was no medical treatment – it was supernatural healing. Both father and son dedicated their lives to sharing Jesus from that point forward.
Genaro Jr. became a teacher of The Greatest Journey – which is a discipleship program that teaches communities after Operation Christmas Child delivers presents. Now his life is filled with sharing Jesus with children in Mexico – and we can partner with him through Operation Christmas Child!
Monday, November 4, 2024
Rita Danso had a burden on her heart for unreached villages of her native Ghana. She had prayed and prayed but no one would go with her. The response was always – it’s too far – too dangerous – the road is too bad. Then she connected with Operation Christmas Child. They simply said, “Let’s go!”
And there were incredible challenges. These remote villages were nearly impossible to reach, but with the help of a tractor pulling supplies and shoebox gifts – and miles of muddy, rocky hiking, some isolated communities in Ghana were introduced to Jesus and their kids got their first Christmas presents.
Rita has become a fixture in the villages, sharing Jesus and teaching children. And it was made possible because of people all around the world participating in Operation Christmas Child!
Friday, November 1, 2024
It takes a lot of work to make Christmas magic. Every year the Post Office receives MILLIONS of letters from kids being sent to Santa Claus (who is busy dating his high school sweetheart on the movie of the week).
Each year Operation Santa has gotten bigger and better – this year partnering with Toys R Us to create a website where anyone can help fulfill Christmas wishes for kids all across the country!
USPSoperationsanta.com is up and running now. Kids can e-write Santa their wish lists – and starting November 18th, the public can adopt a letter to be a part of making Christmas special for a special child!
Thursday, October 31, 2024
Scrapbookers have hidden treasures glued and pressed in their volumes. Scott King won a free ticket to Disneyland back in 1985 and recently found it in his scrapbook. Flash forward nearly 40 years and his daughter wanted to go to Disneyland with her boyfriend, but was complaining to her dad about how expensive the Happiest Place on Earth had become.
Would a 40 year old ticket, worth just $16.50 in the 80s be transferable for a day of fun for his daughter? Tickets now run $100! Turns out there was a little magic left in the ticket because Disneyland honored and welcomed Scott’s daughter, Sabrina – who got to make wonderful memories just a couple weeks before leaving for college.
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
John Metcalfe has made his way through life as a traveling troubadour – a musician drifting around the world performing for decades. He left his home in Liverpool back in 1988, traveling and performing across Europe, to the Middle East and back again.
His journey led to time spent in Spain, where he started a family, then on to Norway for the last five years – before he was deported from the European Union, back to Liverpool.
While living in his car, he earned money by performing on the corner. He was spotted by a TikToker outside of a McDonalds and was so charming that the internet did its thing and raised thousands of dollars to get John and his girlfriend into proper housing and to help care for his elderly parents.
Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Twins. They have a bond like no other people on earth. Recently a pair of twin sisters in Toledo, OH celebrated their 102nd birthday together! Family members flew in from as far away as Texas to be at the big celebration. Both women had big families with 13 children between the two of them.
One sister is hard of hearing, the other nearly blind – they help each other along and make each other laugh all the time.
Marilyn and Madelyn reminded their friends and family to take the word “hate” out of their vocabulary. And to always “..be kind to your neighbor.”
Monday, October 28, 2024
In conductor Ron Davis Alvarez’s orchestra, musicians speak more than 20 languages. They come from varied backgrounds, too: They’re refugees, immigrants or young people from vulnerable backgrounds whose lives have brought them to Gothenburg, Sweden. But when they’re playing music together, they’re suddenly all speaking the same language.
This is the Dream Orchestra, Alvarez’s group that unites hundreds of people of varying backgrounds and skill levels to make music. Alvarez knows how music can be lifesaving. He, too, is an immigrant, from Caracas, Venezuela. At 10, he joined a community children’s orchestra in the city and learned the violin. Music became his life — and he studied conducting and traveled the world promoting free classical music classes for underserved children. His work brought him to Sweden nearly a decade ago when refugees from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan were arriving in the country in droves.
Now, there are 300 musicians in the Dream Orchestra. Many of them can’t understand each other or even Alvarez when he’s speaking. Music, though, is a universal language, Alvarez says, and when they play, his musicians are in sync. “An orchestra, it’s like a community — different people, different voices, different melodies,” he said. “Everybody (has) their own role and they all connect to each other. Imagine if the world was more like an orchestra.”
Friday, October 25, 2024
Local Emmy Rabalais was born 17 years ago, with Cerebral Palsy. She’s grown up in a wheelchair, but those wheels haven’t slowed her down – quite the contrary, she’s rolling fast into her life. She was recently crowned Miss Teen Wheelchair USA after showcasing her beauty, brains and awesome accomplishments.
Emmy speaks fluent French, is a student of vexillology – which means she knows every flag of the world – and has used her voice (and wheels) to help fight for her peers with disabilities to get the help they deserve.
When she returned from her pageant with crown in tow, friends put on a second line parade for her at Galatoire’s through the French Quarter. Emmy reminds all of us that no matter our circumstances, we can be used by God to help others around us!
Thursday, October 24, 2024
As a curious, science minded child, Heman Beckele almost set his family’s house on fire attempting to solve the energy crisis with his chemistry set. Thankfully his parents made sure to keep a close eye on his experiments and make sure to foster Heman’s love of science. And it paid off – because he won a $25,000 grant in the 10th grade for inventing a type of soap that can treat and prevent skin cancer!
Heman and his family immigrated to the US from Ethiopia. Some of his earliest memories were of workers in the blistering sun with no skin protection. That puts a face to his goals to eradicate skin cancer.
Wednesday, October 23, 2024
Elisia Manuel’s experience as a foster parent and adoptive mother led her to start her nonprofit, Three Precious Miracles, a volunteer-run organization that supports vulnerable Native American youth and their families. Elisia , who is both Apache and Mexican, and her husband, Tecumseh, an enrolled member of Gila River Indian Community, became licensed foster parents in 2012 with his tribe in Arizona.
Native American children are overrepresented in the foster care system, while there is a shortage of Native American foster parents. As the couple got more involved with families in their community, Elisia started collecting basic necessities to help out. That’s how she discovered how desperate these kids were to connect with their heritage.
Now, Three Precious Miracles provides programming and cultural events for more than 800 Native American children and their families every year; things like bead working classes, educational workshops and a tribal quilting program. Ultimately, she says her work is about building safe, positive, and culturally sensitive homes for all Native American children, no matter who is caring for them.
Tuesday, October 22, 2024
A handful of high school students at James Madison High School in Vienna, VA wanted to do something special for their hard working friend Mr. Francis. Francis is the school custodian, but friend to all at James Madison High. The students describe Francis as “a dear friend to all of us… very kind, genuine person.”
Working in secret for six months, the teens raised $20,000 and partnered with a local car dealership to get Mr. Francis his dream car – a cherry-red Jeep!
Now the kids at the school cheer every time Francis pulls into the parking lot in his bright red whip.
Monday, October 21, 2024
Hurricane Helene ravaged parts of the southern US and it could take a while before some areas start getting back to normal. But in such a dark time, there are always light-bearers.
Dolly Parton, along with her companies Dollywood Parks & Resorts, The Dollywood Foundation, Dolly Parton’s Stampede and Pirates Voyage, are partnering with Walmart to provide significant donations to flood relief across the Appalachian region.
In North Carolina, a group of private helicopter pilots has run hundreds of rescue missions to save people who were trapped by the storm. A North Carolina man opened his lodge to stranded residents north of Asheville, and when the headquarters of MANNA Food Bank in Asheville was destroyed, its staff rallied to find new ways to help the community.
When disaster strikes – look for the helpers! They are everywhere!
Friday, October 18, 2024
The world got to see an act of God’s people showing loving kindness in Douglasville, GA. This town, just East of Atlanta displayed generosity in a big way. It all started at a convenience store when Casey Marlow was grabbing a cold drink. He had left his wallet in the car, as he was headed to the door to fetch it when the man behind him paid for the drink.
Casey smiled and thanked the man named Mario. They struck up a conversation and it turns out, Mario was going through a really tough season of life. He and his family had been evicted and were living in a motel. Mario was working multiple jobs to help get them back on their feet.
Casey reached out to some friends, and 1Source Home Solutions got involved. Quickly the community put together $35,000 for Mario and his family. Both men thank Jesus for the chance to become friends and impact each other’s lives!
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Dan Shutes has been teaching the 5th grade for over a decade. He’s an elementary school teacher in Michigan who might have cracked the code with his students. Turns out, they actually do want to hang.
Dan started eating lunch with his students in the cafeteria just to be a friend to new kids and introverts. Now, whichever table he sits at has become the “cool table.” When he could be taking a well deserved break from the children, he’s found that kids are desperate for attention outside of the classroom.
Dan’s model of moving around to different tables and kids each day has encouraged hundreds of other teachers nationwide to start doing the same – and the results have been a rousing success, creating a new level of community between the students and teachers!
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Imagine you are out to lunch, enjoying a beautiful day in Greenport, New York. The food is delicious – the company a joy – the conversation is flowing. Then you go to pay the check and find out a stranger has already paid for your meal. In fact, they paid for every person at the restaurant plus left a generous tip for all the servers!
Sharon Sailor, owner of the quaint restaurant Front Street Station in Greenport, shared the unexpected blessing on social media, noting the generous individual wanted to remain anonymous.
You might not be able to cover the lunch bill for a whole restaurant – but each month when you give to LifeSongs, you are sharing Jesus through LifeSongs radio and that’s pretty generous too!
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Connor is an 8-year-old from Utah who really missed his older brother. His brother joined the Army after high school and was stationed in Georgia, half a country away from the mountains of Utah.
Connor set up a lemonade stand in his neighborhood to raise money so he could go visit his big bro. When word got out why Connor was selling lemonade, neighbors came out of the woodwork to help – they raised over $1000, which afforded Connor a weeklong trip to hang with his brother in Georgia.
Monday, October 14, 2024
Irene Qualls loved her husband, who built their family home with his own hands. Four years ago he passed away, leaving the widow with a beautiful home, but it was so much to tend to. Plus she’s the legal guardian of her 10 year old granddaughter, which takes up much of her time.
That’s where Both Hands, a non-profit organization, stepped in. Mrs. Qualls calls Both Hands “nothing short of God working miracles in [her] life.” Ellen Barnard and her family were equipped by Both Hands to step in and help Irene and her granddaughter maintain the home and yard. Ellen met Ms. Irene at church and the pair became fast friends – helping the Barnards, a military family, find friends in their new community.
Funded by Both Hands, the Barnard family and friends have pressure washed Ms. Qualls house, maintained the yard, removed a big tree, cleaned the gutters, put in a new fence and much more! What a beautiful example of love lived out loud!
Friday, October 11, 2024
12-year-old Danny Doherty of Boston, Mass was bored over the Summer – so he started selling homemade ice cream to raise money for his brother’s hockey team. It’s a team designed for kids with physical and developmental disabilities. Just a couple of days into his start-up, the Board of Health sent the family a cease and desist letter for violating state food regulations.
Turns out someone had reported the boy’s project. Danny was mad – he noticed the state wasn’t shutting down all the lemonade stands around town. But Danny isn’t a quitter – he started giving away the ice cream and accepting donations for the team. Since he wasn’t selling the ice cream, it was completely legal! Danny ran out of ice cream in 10 minutes and raised $1000.
Word spread about Danny’s plan to beat the system – local radio got involved – and soon he had raised $20,000 for his brother’s special hockey team!
Thursday, October 10, 2024
John McFall lost his right leg after a motorcycle accident when he was 19. But the determined young man refused to wallow – instead he trained. Eventually McFall became a Bronze medalist for Great Britain in the Paralympic Games!
That in and of itself is a “Good News story” – but John McFall has a lot more going on. He went on to become a trauma specialist and orthopedic surgeon after his track and field career. And now he’s got his eyes on the stars!
McFall is the world’s first “Parastronaut” through the European Space Agency. He’s the guinea pig in a study to see how feasible it is for astronauts with disabilities to get around on the International Space Station. So far – so good. McFall hopes in the near future to blast off and become the first person with a physical disability in space.
Wednesday, October 9, 2024
The Altar Fellowship Church in Johnson City, TN decided on an innovative way to impact families in their community: pay off their medical debt.
Hospitals send past due bills to collections and often they will settle bills for far less than the initial expense. Altar Fellowship worked a deal to pay off $8 million in medical debt for their tri-city area of East Tennessee!
Thousands of families were given an unexpected gift they could have never dreamt of. A few of the recipients actually turned out to be members of the church! Almost 4,000 families were freed from a debt they couldn’t pay. Beautiful!
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Amy Haden came home one day and discovered a mutt on her back porch, sitting comfortably on one of her patio chairs. Despite her efforts to locate the shepherd mix’s owner via social media and neighbors, no one claimed him, and the vet confirmed he had no identifying chip. Amy and her family affectionately named him Walker but were unable to keep him due to their current responsibilities.
After a month of searching for a suitable home, Amy found a loving forever home for Walker with an elderly woman who had been praying for a dog like him. This turn of events provided a heartwarming conclusion as Walker became the answer to the elderly woman’s prayers, proving that sometimes, unexpected visitors turn out to be blessings in disguise.
Monday, October 7, 2024
Sally Spencer, a nurse at Birmingham (England) Children’s Hospital for nearly 25 years, has won an Unsung Hero Award for her remarkable work combining music and medicine.
As a children’s leukemia nurse, Sally has spent decades caring for some of the most vulnerable patients. Sally is also a singer with the renowned choir Ex Cathedra. Two decades ago, she pioneered the Singing Medicine project, which uses music to bring joy and healing to children in hospitals. Singing Medicine brings live singing sessions to young patients, including those in protective isolation.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, when in-person visits weren’t possible, Sally and her team adapted by creating thousands of personalized music videos for children, ensuring that the power of music could still reach those in need. Sally’s leadership has been instrumental in the success of the project, even guiding the team in emotionally challenging situations, such as singing during end-of-life care.
Beyond children’s hospitals, Sally expanded Singing Medicine to support adults affected by stroke and dementia, showing the versatility and healing potential of music. Each day on LifeSongs we see the evidence of how God can use music and singing to bring healing to our hearts – thank you for making it possible today!
Monday, September 30, 2024
Katrina Mullen might just have the biggest heart around! This incredible nurse went from caring for patients to adopting a teen mom and her triplets after life threw them some tough curves. Knowing the struggles of young motherhood firsthand, Katrina opened her home and heart to Shariya Small and her three little ones. Imagine the joy and relief Shariya felt reading Katrina’s life-changing text: “I can’t wait for you to come home.” Now, Shariya’s set to graduate high school and head to college, all thanks to her adopted mom, Nurse Katrina.
This remarkable act of kindness was not just about providing a roof over their heads; Katrina’s deep empathy and personal connection made her the perfect support system for Shariya. As social services prepared to split the triplets into multiple foster homes, Katrina interceded, ensuring they stayed together and found stability. Today, with Katrina’s unwavering support, Shariya is set to graduate high school and is preparing to attend college, determined to build a better future for her family.
Friday, September 27, 2024
Sara Shabir, who is a third grade teacher at Tyndale Community School, learned how to crochet during the COVID lockdown of 2020. Now she’s using her skills to make her students smile at the end of each school year!
As the school year progresses Sarah crochets custom dolls for each of her students. The deeply personal and detailed dolls take about 8 hours a piece – trying to get the hairstyles and outfits just right.
And it’s not just the graduating 3rd graders that will cherish these dolls forever – their parents all say Ms. Shabir is the best, not just for her crocheting skills – but her personal touch with each student all year long.
Thursday, September 26, 2024
While Jeff Greene was perusing the dessert aisle at his local Trader Joe’s he struck up a conversation with Tara, one of the employees who recommended the TJ’s Key Lime pie. It’s her favorite. Jeff also loves Key Lime pie – in fact, it’s his specialty that he bakes at home.
While the family was checking out, Tara went and purchased a key lime pie and snuck it into their basket. It was a simple sweet gesture – that inspired Jeff to go home, bake his signature pie and return to the store with a homemade pie for Tara! She was in tears and the kind gesture – and also really enjoyed the pie.
Forget “tit for tat” it’s all about “Pie for Pie!” Thank you for taking a piece of the LifeSongs pie this Fall Shareathon! If you haven’t given yet, now’s the perfect time to take a slice of the need by clicking DONATE!
Wednesday, September 25, 2024
Tuckerman Elementary School made a whole day out of celebrating their very own Granny Bobo! Velma Bobo has volunteered for the last 25 years at Tuckerman Elementary – she’s the official foster grandparent, having logged over 20,000 hours with hundreds of children who really needed Granny to listen and sit with them.
Foster Grandparents like Velma are assigned children who have special or exceptional needs. It’s a heavy but joyful responsibility that Granny Bobo has loved for a quarter century.
Now 92 years young, Granny Bobo is finally retiring from service. Local news even showed up at school for the ceremony to honor this great community leader!
Folks who volunteer at schools or non-profits are truly angels – we are so thankful for the volunteers that work with LifeSongs and all over SELA each day. Thank you for giving the most precious gift – your time! CLICK HERE if you are interested in volunteering with LifeSongs.
Tuesday, September 24, 2024
When there is a hurricane – or even a heavy downpour in New Orleans, common sense says don’t go out for a drive. The reason? Streets disappear and before you know it, you could be drowning in a canal that you didn’t see. That’s exactly what local news crews caught on camera during Hurricane Francine over in Lakeview.
Miles Crawford, an off-duty ER nurse happened to live nearby where a truck was slowly being pulled into a flooded canal. Even with police on the scene and WDSU camera crews covering the disaster, no one could get to the driver. Miles grabbed a hammer and waded into the chest high flood waters with police as his backup.
The driver was in chin-deep water, stuck in the truck’s cab. Miles smashed the back window and pulled the driver out to safety. Within minutes the truck was completely submerged, but a life was saved thanks to the quick actions of Nurse Crawford.
LifeSongs isn’t submerged in a canal during a hurricane – but we do have an emergency that you can help with – we are not yet fully-funded for our Fall Shareathon. Give a gift of any amount and help pull us up from our place of need. Give now!
Monday, September 23, 2024
Jenelle Marie met 91 year old Donald at a pawn shop in Manchester, Mass. Donald is an Air Force veteran who was struggling to make ends meet as he cares for his wife, who is homebound and battling dementia.
As Donald was pawning off his belongings to make the couple’s rent, Jenelle knew she had to do something. She started a GoFundMe page to crowdsource help, being the first to donate $1400 out of her own savings. It didn’t take long for Donald’s story to spread – and so far over 15,000 internet strangers have stepped in to help the couple.
To date, Jenelle and thousands of others have collected over $440,000 to take care of Donald and his wife. They’ll never have to worry about their needs being met again.
We know a little something about what that feels like – when people from all over come together to provide for LifeSongs. Thank you for having generous hearts!
Friday, September 6, 2024
Alaska is often called the Last Frontier. Much of it is untouched, given that it’s colder climate and how it is closer to Russia than it is to the rest of the United States. It is also a haven to wildlife and sea life. Otters and whales have their very own Alaskan playground. But the evidence of mankind is growing as trash builds up on the coastline.
This year Northwestern University sent six students to join the Ocean Plastics Recovery Project working on the southern coasts of Alaska. They lived and worked on a 108-foot research vessel. Their hard work cleared 15,000 lbs. of marine debris over the Summer.
The hard labor and research will ultimately lead to exciting innovations in recycling – but also connect these students to the problems they study in the classroom.
You can get hands-on experience at LifeSongs next week – when our Fall Shareathon kicks off. Have a couple hours to get in the trenches and volunteer?
Thursday, September 5, 2024
Ethan Guo is a 19-year old Chinese American teen who loves to fly. But he wants his mileage to do more than make the record books – he wants to help save lives.
Ethan has a goal to become the youngest person to fly to all 7 continents – visiting 60 countries and flying over 50,000 miles. But more important than breaking records is Ethan’s drive to help defeat childhood cancer. The young pilot has partnered with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital to use his record breaking flights as a fundraiser.
Ethan is off to a good start with $20,000 pledged towards his trip – but has a goal of raising $1 million before he lands back at home.
You can help LifeSongs take flight this week with our $50,000 pre-Shareathon match! Your gift – double impact – lives changed!
Wednesday, September 4, 2024
Savannah Strother is one incredibly brave 15-year old babysitter. She’s even received special honors from her local Fire Department!
Savannah was babysitting 1 year old Alyiah and 3 year old Brysen when a fire broke out between the family’s house and the next door neighbor’s home. Super Savannah leapt into action, swooping the baby and toddler in her arms and leaping through flames at the front door to get them all to safety. The heroics were captured on the home security camera.
Savannah’s mom praised her eldest child as always being very maternal and quick to action. The community even presented the young hero with a $500 check, which she immediately put in her savings account.
Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. You can be a hero for the ministry of LifeSongs right now by making a gift of any amount – which will have a double impact thanks to a very special $50,000 match!
Tuesday, September 3, 2024
Marcus Carpenter is a 4th generation Black American farmer. He grew up on 180 acres of farmland in rural Arkansas – down a dirt road called Route 1. Marcus has since moved to Minnesota where he founded Route 1 farming to help teach the next generation of farmers all while providing nutritious produce for very poor neighborhoods.
Marcus Carpenter builds urban farms in shipping containers – he calls them Freight Farms. Each hydroponic converted shipping container can produce the equivalent of 4 acres of farmland. The science is fun – but for Marcus the real joy comes from teaching students about farming and caring for their community.
He’s invested in many struggling students who found their calling with their hands in the soil and their hearts in serving the poorest parts of Minnesota. Plus the surplus food gets sold to local restaurants and large-scale cafeterias, further investing in the community.
Monday, September 2, 2024 – Happy Labor Day!
When you are nice to people – you never know how it might affect their day. Jess, a mom of three, had experienced great blessings in her life and wanted to pay it forward.
She gave a generous tip to the gas station attendant who always offered her family a big smile and great service. In New Jersey, where this kindness happened, you literally aren’t allowed to pump your own gas, so you get to know the folks filling you up.
This time Jess got to fill up her friend with a cash tip that made him instantly tear up at the kindness.
If you have been blessed – we’ve got an amazing opportunity for you to pay it forward right now! LifeSongs has a special $50,000 match going now until Shareathon. That means if you give NOW, we can match your gift for LifeSongs and you’ll be a double blessing to this listener supported ministry! CLICK HERE!
Friday, August 30, 2024
Peter Warner has been driving a bus on Staten Island for 13 years. He knows to look out for his community and get his passengers to their destination on time. As a father of two, he’s also got those good dad instincts. While driving his route he spotted a little boy running down the middle of the street in a diaper, no shoes and an iPad clutched in his little hands.
Peter made the decision to angle the bus to block traffic. He secured the bus and hopped out to rescue the little boy. After a quick call to the cops, it was discovered the toddler had sprinted out of his house several blocks away completely unnoticed.
The child was safely returned home after a nice long hug from his new friend Peter the bus driver. Peter has since become Facebook friends with the little boy’s family and they still stay in touch.
Knowing someone’s looking out for you and your family is a powerful thing, isn’t it? We’re grateful for your generosity and when you invest in the ministry of LifeSongs, we’re grateful we get to provide a message of hope for your family every day. Thank you!
Thursday, August 29, 2024
Jayne Arendt-Verhelst is a cheerful Metro driver in St. Paul, MN. She’s known by her commuters as “The Happy Driver” because she’s always quick to offer a smile and encouraging word. Her regulars generally earn nicknames as they get to know Jayne on their daily drive.
One day she pulled up to a stop on West 7th Street and the woman who climbed up onto the bus looked like she had been hit by a series of life’s storms. The homeless woman began to shuffle back to a seat when Jayne stopped her.
The Happy Driver slipped off her shoes and gave them to the lady who was without shoes. She didn’t draw attention to the situation, but others noticed – and that one kind act brought a lot of light into their lives.
Word spread of Jayne’s kind act, inspiring others to look for ways to practically serve their community. And now when passengers hop on Jayne’s bus they often tease her when she’s wearing new shoes.
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
Tim and Philippa Bushe met as teenagers in art school. They were together for 47 years before Philippa passed from breast cancer. The couple always viewed the world through a creative lens. It was Philippa who encouraged her husband to not just trim the hedges outside, but turn them into works of art.
Tim’s trade is an architect, but his passion has become transforming hedges into sculptures. He does this to honor his wife and to raise funds for a variety of charities, including one that cares for his sister who has Down syndrome.
For over 15 years Tim has used his clippers to transform overgrown bushes into beautiful topiaries. He has sculpted trains, cats, fish – even a green version of Henry Moore’s “Reclining Nude.” His neighbors love it – and folks all over London have commissioned his work in front of their homes.
Now I’m wondering if I can somehow make my shrubs spell out “God is good – all the time!”
Probably not, BUT, you help make that message known through your support for LifeSongs – Thank you!
Tuesday, August 27, 2024
Lionel Njitor was picking through the rubble of his life after a fire destroyed his family’s home in the Cottage Grove neighborhood. While moving through debris, some kids from two doors down popped in with an idea of how they could help their neighbors. Brady Steffes and his friends told Lionel they were going to run a lemonade stand and give all the proceeds to the family of five. You can imagine how this touched Lionel’s heart.
The neighborhood boys manned their lemonade stand, charging 75 cents a cup to passers by. They had a goal of raising $250 for their friends, but word quickly spread about what the boys were doing. Neighbors popped in and started tipping hundreds of dollars for the lemonade. Soon they had collected around $4000 for the family just by selling lemonade!
Neighbors also created a GoFundMe for the family, which is well on its way of collecting another $20,000 to help the Njitor family rebuild.
Monday, August 26, 2024
Ashok Aliseril got a 30 minute flying lesson for his birthday. It was a gift from his wife after they moved to a town near a small airport. He was instantly hooked and got his pilot’s license, loving the sense of comradery with other pilots and the freedom of flying.
Ashok bought a build-your-own plane kit right before the pandemic kicked in and spent his time working with his daughters to put it together. After rigorous inspections and testing, the plane was ready and now his family can literally pop over the English Channel to France on a whim – because they built themselves an airplane!
Friday, August 23, 2024
Historically the relationship between mail carriers and dogs is a contentious one. But a surprisingly sweet chihuahua named Frannie Joy absolutely loves Postman Dan. Every day Frannie Joy trots out to greet the Illinois mail carrier – and their interactions have gone viral, delighting millions!
Once Dan hops out of the mail truck, Frannie Joy sprints from the door straight into his arms for a snuggle. The Mayor of Hoffman Estates is even honoring the duo for showing how love is essential to a great life – declaring a FranDan Day for the dynamic duo.
Thursday, August 22, 2024
Seven Chicago best friends joined their buddy to raise funds for Citizens United in Research for Epilepsy, to honor their friend’s 12 year old son who deals with the disease. They will swim in Lake Michigan, bike and run to raise a goal of $75,000 (which they are close to raising already).
When a loved one is struggling or battling disease, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the feelings of helplessness. And while this band of friends can’t heal young Silas, they can be a part of the push for a cure.
Wednesday, August 21, 2024
12 year old Zameir Davis has a lot of folks in his corner. His dad went on social media to celebrate his son’s hard work for getting straight A’s and making the Honor Roll at school. And Zameir’s buddy Wally, who owns a local deli down the street was so impressed with the boy came in with his Honor Roll certificate, he let Zameir pick out some food for free in celebration!
A proud dad and a free sandwich?! I want to make the honor roll too! Wally, who owns the local deli, has watched Zameir grow up and strive for excellence at school. He started rewarding other neighborhood kids for their academic achievements too when he saw how excited it made Zameir.
Tuesday, August 20, 2024
Say “Hi Barbie” to Mattel’s newest inclusive doll – the first ever blind Barbie. Not only is the aesthetic complete with walking stick and tipped cane, but the doll’s clothes have been designed with tactile fabric to be enjoyed by blind children. Blind Barbie has a satiny blouse and textured ruffle skirt and big hook fasteners on her clothes to make playing more fun for someone who sees with their fingers.
Even the packaging for the newest Barbie is designed to be inclusive, with braille writing describing the new doll. Mattel’s Barbie designers worked closely with several charities and organizations that represent blind people in order to be very intentional in the design.
Monday, August 19, 2024
Shakeria Sullivan was in the process of moving from Denver to Orlando to be closer to her mom. The mom of three was seven months pregnant with her fourth child, but little Jadalyne Skye wasn’t planning on waiting for her due date. She wasn’t even going to wait for the plane to land.
Shakeria flagged down the lead flight attendant Diana and told her she was in labor – and things were happening quickly. Diana got the laboring mother to the back of the plane and within minutes she gave birth. Two months premature and very tiny, the baby was not breathing.
Diana used an oxygen mask and began baby CPR on the tiny new passenger. The baby began to breathe – the plane made an emergency landing in Pensacola and the new mom and baby were whisked away to a local hospital. It’s been 2 and half years and Jadalyne Skye is a “firecracker” according to her mom. Diana, the flight attendant who delivered her, stays in touch and still sends birthday and Christmas presents every year.
Friday, August 16, 2024
Travel is stressful – especially when you have precious cargo. Jordan Giorgio and her fiancé were headed to Lake Como, Italy for the destination wedding of their dreams. But getting there, with an extremely expensive wedding gown in-tow was going to take some generous kindness from the airline.
Jordan could not ship designer dress and certainly wasn’t going to check it as luggage. Her airline confirmed accommodations out of her native Florida, but when transferring to a smaller airline in France, things got dicey. The dress wouldn’t fit the coat check or the overhead compartment. But just as Jordan began to hyperventilate (and you know you would too in this situation) the pilot of the plane stepped in to help.
The pilot recognized how special this precious cargo was to her passenger and brought the wedding dress up into the cockpit for safe keeping for the final flight from Paris to Italy. Jordan managed to get her dream wedding thanks to Captain Christine.
Thursday, August 15, 2024
Captain Steve Hunt of the New Hanover County Fire Department is a hero. He was walking along the Cape Fear River with his girlfriend on a warm Saturday night when he saw a man struggling to stay above the waves of the river. Without hesitation, Captain Hunt jumped in the river for a rescue operation.
Heather, Steve’s girlfriend, said he didn’t even hesitate – it was just instinct to try and help. And helping was a challenge because the struggling person didn’t want to be saved. They were trying to end their life.
That means that Captain Hunt first had to offer counsel and peace to the distraught man, calm him down and then rescue him. And that’s exactly what he did.
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Sean Rogers Jr. is an all-star Columbus, OH dad, who figured out how to get his kids to school IN STYLE!
There’s a statewide shortage of bus drivers for Ohio school students. When Sean’s kids missed a day of school because the bus just didn’t run. Sean posted on Facebook asking other local parents if they wanted their kids picked up for school in a limousine he borrowed from his dad’s limo service.
The first day it was 25 kids. The next, 42!
Tuesday, August 13, 2024
Throughout the developing world life continues to be an uphill battle for women. When Payton McGriff, a student at the University of Idaho learned 129 million girls worldwide aren’t even enrolled in basic elementary school – she found her life’s cause.
Payton moved to Togo and founded Style Her Empowered, also known as SHE. One thing preventing many students from attending school is access to proper clothing. SHE developed school uniforms for girls that easily grew with the student. It was originally a marketing class project back in Idaho. Now these uniforms are helping hundreds of girls in Africa stay in school!
Not only does SHE provide the uniforms for hundreds of little girls, but has employed dozens of full time seamstresses at a rate far above what women typically earn in Togo. And that’s how a girl from Idaho is helping women on the other side of the world.
Monday, August 12, 2024
With school back in session, you have probably looked through various back to school sales. Some folks go to Walmart, Dollar Tree and Target. In Gwinnett County, Georgia, Change Mart is the spot to visit… because school supplies at Change Mart are free!
Change Church, just north of Atlanta is a multisite congregation that gave 1400 local families free tennis shoes and school supplies this month! Summer of 2023 Change Church held their first Change Mart – and the families of the mega church were so excited by the chance to serve and help, that they TRIPLED the amount of families impacted this year.
Friday, August 9, 2024
Sometimes you just need a good breakfast, solid coffee and a place to pee. But one Waffle House in Tuscaloosa, AL apparently offers complimentary karaoke!
Well not official karaoke. When Dr. Chelsea Wallace and her daughter stopped in for breakfast, the staff fell quickly in love with the hyper little girl. Breakfast turned into an impromptu Disney sing-along with the waitress belting out LET IT GO with the little girl.
Dr. Wallace shared with Good Morning America how this particular Waffle House is a family favorite for many because the staff is always so welcoming and accommodating for children. They learn their names, have coloring pages ready and never shush a kid that just needs to bounce around and sing.
Thursday, August 8, 2024
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone is one of the best female hurdlers in the world. She OWNS the 400-meter hurdles. She finishes the race, sits down and has a snack before the rest of the competitors cross the finish line. You wouldn’t think this Olympian would be deeply insecure…
Sydney confesses that she was motivated by fear of failure – of not living up to other people’s expectations. It wasn’t until God laid Proverbs 29:25 on her heart that the race became a joy to run.
“The fear of man lays a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord is safe.”
Through encouraging parents, coaches and her husband – Sydney embraced the identity of daughter of God and suddenly the weight of a world of expectations melted away! Faith in God replaced fear for one of the fastest women in the world – what can faith in Jesus help you be free from?
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
The Paris Olympic opening ceremonies were – if anything – extremely French. One particular part of the ceremony seemed to mock the Last Supper of Jesus and his disciples, which made many people very angry – and justly so. But being angry and people who don’t know Jesus for not loving and respecting him is counterproductive. The French Bible Society hopes to introduce Jesus to the multitudes.
The French Bible Society is distributing 200,000 copies of the Bible. 140,000 copies written in French, the rest in English. The special Olympic edition Bibles also include testimonies written by Christian athletes. The title on the front of the Bibles says this New Testament is “More Precious Than Gold.”
With 11 million visitors in Paris, the Olympics are a unique opportunity to spread the Gospel in one location – and then see it carried around the world!
Tuesday, August 6, 2024
Manu Solidaire lives in Paris in a tiny apartment. He’s become a TikTok star for streaming his adventures in cooking in his tiny French kitchen – like a real life Ratatouille. But the 33 year old isn’t making French cuisine to win culinary awards – he’s packing meals to give out to the less fortunate.
After streaming the prep, cooking and packaging up meals – Manu turns on his GoPro camera on his bike helmet and takes followers on a tour of Paris, where he distributes the meals to homeless people throughout the city. And he’s not just feeding a handful of folks in his hometown – Manu is inspiring hundreds of thousands of social media followers to care for the less fortunate all around the globe.
Monday, August 5, 2024
Melissa Wolf has seen the sweet relationship between child and animal change many lives through her California non-profit Unchained.
Melissa pairs at-risk youth – many who live in juvenile correction facilities – with rescue shelter dogs. Learning to care for a living being shapes the at risk youth, and experiencing love after a life of abandonment and abuse brings the joyful puppy out of the adopted animals.
Kids learn emotional maturity through caring for their dogs and Unchained has seen their work make a big impact on many lives since they first began in 2011.
NEED MORE GOOD NEWS? Click Here for previous Today’s Good News stories featured on LifeSongs!