Shoeshine boys often have their eyes downcast, not because they’re sad, but because they’re looking for dull, dusty shoes that might earn them a few coins.
Many of these boys are between 8 and 14 and help provide for their families by roaming the streets and parks looking for people with dirty shoes. Once they find a dusty pair, they have to convince them to pay a few coins to let them shine them into a reflective sheen.
On Saturdays a van pulls up near the central park and loads up with as many boys as want to take a break and get a free meal. Then the van rolls down the street and delivers them to a site where a team of leaders from several churches have come together to serve these boys.
They serve a tasty meal, some songs about Jesus and a Bible lesson along with time to chat with the boys.
It’s a little like a shoeshine for the soul as these boys come in and get to be encouraged, fed and learn something about the One who brightens their hearts if they will let Him.
This ministry to shoeshine boys uses our Adventures in the Bible books to teach these boys biblical principles that can transform their lives. Recently they finished their first book in the Adventures in the Bible series so they get to take home the completed books to show their families (see photo).
We’re excited to be part of equipping this team of believers to bless these boys and teach them a story that can change their lives before they head back out on the streets to look for some more dirty shoes to shine.
Please join us in praying for these boys, that they will listen to God’s Word with their hearts and that their lives and hearts will shine with the Light of Christ.
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