For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our LORD.
Romans 8:38-39
While many are separated physically from their loved ones this Easter, we know that despite our circumstances, nothing can separate us from the love of God.
This week at Denver Rescue Mission looked quite different from past Easter seasons as we continued to adapt our processes on a daily basis to protect and serve our guests and program participants in the midst of COVID-19. Still, this week offered many moments in which Christ’s love and care was reflected so beautifully.
With the help of various members of the community who created and donated Easter baskets, we were able to bless the children and teenagers living at The Crossing, whose parents are part of the STAR Transitional Program, with Easter baskets to enjoy. More than a hundred baskets were donated to the kids and filled with snacks, candy, toys, activities, and art supplies—items that are especially helpful during a time when schools are closed and parents are looking for ways to keep their children busy.
Hannah Margraf, a 6th grader at Skyview Academy, was born on Easter Sunday 12 years ago. Each year, she spends her birthday creating Easter baskets for families in need. “It’s really cool to think that we were saved and that [Jesus] helped us and was totally selfless in that act,” she said.
This year, she and her family, along with their Bible study group, made about 50 Easter baskets for the Mission. She spent about two weeks gathering the items, and each basket was intentionally assembled and labeled by gender and age group. “For people who can’t normally get this stuff and who can’t afford it, it’s nice [for them] to not have to worry about it and just be surprised,” Hannah said.
Another 50 Easter baskets were donated by Sarah Goodman, who created the baskets with club members of 4-H, a positive youth development and mentoring organization.
“Right now, there are so many in need,” Sarah said. “I feel it is very important for those who have essential jobs to step up and try to fill in the gaps. Nothing I have is mine. It is all supplied by God, and nothing I give is mine. God just uses me to supply to others.”
Auburie Glaws and her 4-year old son also assembled baskets for the Mission, which were filled with dinosaur eggs, My Little Pony toys, coloring books, chalk, bubbles, and candy.
“Denver Rescue Mission holds a special place in our hearts,” Auburie said. “We believe everyone deserves a chance to make a fresh start with life-changing programs. We love how the Mission opens its doors to everyone with no discrimination and no judgement.”
The kids were overjoyed by the sight of tables filled with Easter baskets on Wednesday evening at The Crossing. As families picked up their dinner in to-go containers due to social distancing requirements, Mission staff members handed out the baskets to the children and teenagers.
The Mission is grateful for the selfless acts of community members who stepped in to bless Mission families. While Easter may look a little different this year, the steadfast love of Christ and the sacrifice He made for us on the Cross is everlasting. “I am just a small piece to a puzzle,” Sarah said. “Compared to His sacrifice, this is so tiny. We can never do what He did, but we try to fulfill what He has called us to do and show love to His children who are in need.”
Written by: Natanya van Heerden, Content Specialist
