A Beautiful Heart of Service
The desire to serve can awaken unexpectedly and even burst into full-fledged passion. One afternoon at work, as Celeste Sharpe greeted movie-goers, a surprise visit jostled her routine and nudged her into a life of service.
Among the theater customers were two familiar faces, Joni and Ken Tada! Their friendly greeting perked up her evening, but it was a conversation after the movie that warmed her spirit.
“I was so moved by that encouraging visit,” said Celeste, who has cerebral palsy. She had long admired “what Joni and Friends does to help people with disabilities.” Out of her love for Jesus and her compassionate spirit, Celeste became a Joni and Friends volunteer. “I wanted to give back,” she said.
Celeste sends thank you notes to our donors and is training to become a tour guide at the Joni and Friends home office, located in Southern California. Rarely is she without an encouragement, a word of praise, or a smile on her face.
“It’s amazing how God has changed my life and given me such joy in serving others.” Her joy is genuine and her trust is sure. “You just have to take one step of faith and it changes the whole course of your life.”
This past summer, a volunteer was moved by Celeste’s gentle heart and sponsored her to become a volunteer at a Family Retreat. Celeste was a first time volunteer and she was overjoyed!
“I’m so humbled God gave me the opportunity to serve. To serve another person is truly such a wonderful thing.”
The wish to serve that began with an encouraging visit with Joni and Ken, has matured into a determination to ease suffering. With her unfailing smile and enduring trust, Celeste knows she’s onto something good.
“I’ve grown in my faith because I took this step, and I can truly say that the joy of the Lord is my strength.”
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