I've always felt that West Virginia held a special brightness, but in the last year or so, the idea that our state is a beacon of light in the midst of the national cultural crisis, has crystallized. The illumination offered by salt-of-the-earth people to hold fast to the Word of God and work together toward restoration, cannot be overstated...or underestimated.
In an earlier episode I shared one of our state's greatest assets: community. Our roots in Appalachia run deep, nourished by a wellspring of love for God and neighbor. You can find this quality among West Virginians in the deepest holler and the busiest city, too.
We are blessed to live in a region that still sees children's lemonade stands, church bazaars, bake sales at sporting events and mason jars on business counters, serving to raise funds for those in need. We often greet each other on sidewalks and give that tractor on the highway the patience and space he needs.
Our love of community and shared family values is why Starlite Drive-In, our newest theater in southern West Virginia presented the Sound of Freedom this summer and organizations such as IGNITE HOPE, in Wheeling, have quickly formed to help the neglected and vulnerable in our state.
And so, it was no real surprise to learn that a group of folks in the southern coalfields have been working together to offer hope to survivors of sex trafficking. What did prove surprising was learning how long they have been working on it, the scope of the project, and the hundreds of hands involved. Hundreds of volunteers that is... and not only from West Virginia, but neighboring states as well.
I was able to hear many accounts of these benevolent volunteer groups during an afternoon with the staff at Zera House. You would be astonished to know how generous people in Appalachia can be with their time and resources when it comes to helping those in need. If it weren't for their humble request to remain anonymous, I would not hesitate to honor them in writing.
It's an amazing story of what love can do. Compassion has built the house that has now been transformed into a place of beauty and light. Zera House offers rest, safety, and healing for those who have suffered the trauma of sexual abuse through trafficking.
Even though their non-profit is in need of filling a few more positions before they officially open the doors, the dedicated staff at Zera House has already been making connections and helping to accommodate survivors of sex trafficking as they transition toward restoration.
It's heartwarming to know of the devoted and courageous people following the call of Jesus Christ to do something... to use their gifts and talents to lift the burden of another person and care for their deepest hurts. Take note and be proud, West Virginia-- this is the essence of our strength and witness to a hurting nation as well.
Please take a few minutes to watch Episode 33 and learn more about Zera House, their public events coming up, and how you can get involved and offer support.
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