A couple weeks ago, we had the amazing opportunity to demonstrate care and compassion to deployed military service members through the USO Care Packing Event at Pizza Ranch’s National Conference. I was blown away by how many folks registered to be a part and give back, and even more stunned by the joy and excitement in the room on the day.  It reminded me that even the smallest act of kindness can make a huge impact. We can’t all go oversees and shake hands directly with those sacrificing so much for our safety and security, but this day, we had a chance to say, “thank you” in a simple and practical way that will mean more to the one, than we’ll ever know. This experience tugged at my heart to remember those in military service even more. They are far from familiar, stuck in uncomfortable and unfortunate environments, they’re away from family, home, love, and community. A reality most of us cannot imagine.

My challenge to you this week: Pray for our service members and deployed military men and women; and if you can do something tangible, do that too. You never know what God is up to and how cool to be a part of His plan and message of hope to people feeling hopeless and alone.