As many of you know, Ellis County was hit by tornados the night of 26 Dec 2015.  Many homes were damaged or destroyed leaving families wondering what to do next.  Many churches and organizations from Ellis County and Best of the Southwest Cities like Cedar Hill responded as well as individual volunteers.  One family that was in need was an elderly couple that were buried in the rubble of their home that night which required first responders to pull them out.  This couple did not have a church home to help them and were not in an area that was on the news to garner attention.  One of the adults within Troop 520 and Venture Crew 628 reached out to these two organizations for help.  This would not be a Troop or Crew service project, but a realization of the principles of Scouting.  The Scout Law which applies to Boy Scouts as well as Venturers states, “A Scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.”  The slogan of Scouting is “Do a good turn daily.”  The mission of Scouting was exemplified on 9 Jan 2016 by the number of Scouts, Venturers, and adults that responded on their own time to aid this family in clearing debris and sorting out their belongings.  Unfortunately, when people either live in the county or in less rural cities there is less ability or facilities to organize relief efforts. Such as was the case in the Lancaster tornado that occurred a few years ago where Troop 520 also responded. The work and efforts of these volunteers was work that is not covered by insurance, FEMA, or other governmental agencies.  The cleanup efforts included clearing numerous large trees that had fallen on the barn, house, and other parts of the property.  These young men and women helped the elderly man recover family heirlooms and other personal property.  However, the biggest impact was positive work ethic and God’s love shown to this family by our youth.  These organizations continue to make positive impacts in the community as the youth develop into citizens that learn to be servant leaders.  This Church’s support of these young folks is a mission outreach.  Isaiah 55:11 states,

“So shall My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.”

Although Scouting is not a Christian Organization, God is using these Scouts to show others that He is loving and uses all things for His purpose.  Thank you for supporting Scouting.