"Is not this the fast that I choose:
to loose the bonds of wickedness,
to undo the straps of the yoke,
to let the oppressed go free,
and to break every yoke?
As I read the entire chapter again and again while praying for understanding, memories of news about human trafficking intruded into my comfort. I don't know how to express the experience other than it felt like a holy commission. An overwhelming one!
"How, Lord? What can I do?" As a woman past her best-before date, how could I possibly attempt such a daunting task?
The answer came a few weeks ago when someone mentioned the Joy Smith Foundation. Have you heard of it? I hadn't, so I looked it up online (www.joysmithfoundation.com). What an eye-opener!
Joy Smith's son, Edward, a police officer, served in the Integrated Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit, whose purpose was to track down predators who had used the Internet to lure in and sexually exploit children for profit. His work caused his hair to turn grey overnight, compelling Joy to ask him about it.
Those conversations changed her life. From teaching to becoming and MLA in Manitoba and then an MP, Joy worked tirelessly to educated and change laws to protect victims and punish perpetrators. She began the Joy Smith Foundation, Inc. on October 27, 2012, to focus on prevention and awareness programs.
What do you know about the horrific business of human trafficking? Are you aware it "earns" $150 BILLION per year? Did you know that the average age of entry into the sex trade in Canada is 12-13 years of age? How about the fact that more than 90% of trafficked persons in Canada were born and raised here?
What would you do if it were your child or grandchild?
Here's a quote from Joy Smith: "Less than a kilometer from where you're sitting right now, someone has been trafficked."
How does that make you feel?
Once a year, the Joy Smith Foundation holds a major fundraising event. This year's is Joy in Action 2022 (https://www.joysmithfoundation.com/p/joy-in-action-2022-registration). This is where I - and hopefully you! - come in. I volunteered to be a team captain for this virtual action event, and I'm looking for teammates. If this interests you, PLEASE contact me. We can raise money in a variety of ways, no matter where we are, to support this important work.
As Paul Brandt said, "With the knowledge that people are being bought and sold, you're forced to make a decision. You're forced to decide whether you're going to do something about it or turn a blind eye."
My decision is made. Will you join me?
Please take a few minutes to check the websites shared above as you consider what God would have you do. To donate to our team's fundraising, click https://bit.ly/3AoixyQ
From my heart to yours, thank you and God bless you.