You may have heard that Kara Tippetts, author of The Hardest Peace, went to be with the Lord yesterday afternoon. May her dying words inspire us to live with beauty and kindness, giving thanks, and trusting in the One who died (and rose) so that we could truly live (read Ann’s words for continued comfort).
Over the past year I have heard some horrific stories about the sex trade. When these accounts are brought to my attention my countenance falls flat and I am left discouraged and disgusted. No shades of grey here, but definitely shades of blue as I lament with an unsettled soul over this grim state of affairs.
I wish this was not a reality in our world, in our country, or in our community…where women are treated like animals and teens are violated and babies are battered…BUT, I know there is a God Who Sees. His name is El Roi and He is on the throne above and alive in the hearts of those who receive Him. He will have the final word. And He is indeed Mighty to Save and able and willing to redeem and restore.
Nothing is beyond Him.
He transforms the broken into something beautiful.
He finds the lost and saves them.
He sets the captives free.
He releases the prisoners from darkness.
He makes all things new (see Revelation 21).
Whether you are the captive or the captor, you can be freed by the power of He who raised Christ from the dead.
Whether you are the victim or the villain, you can be transformed by the blood of the Lamb slain for you.
Whether you are the martyr or the terrorist, you can encounter the radical mystery of His amazing grace.
It is an honor to do good around the globe through our Extension 26 initiative. In case you aren’t familiar with it, we introduce a reputable ministry/organization each month and encourage you to give to them in some way (you can give $26 on the 26th to keep it simple or whatever you feel led to do—pray, volunteer, or give monetarily).
We give because we are so grateful for all that He has done for us. He has entrusted us with time, talents, and treasures and it is our responsibility to be good stewards for His Kingdom.
I love how God surprises us by crossing our paths with some amazing ministries and organizations. This month we are pleased to introduce you to Work of Worth.
Work of Worth exists to sustainably employ entrepreneurs in dignity from poverty and the sex trade. Each purchase of their quality items helps to support men and women who desire a choice for freedom and dignity for their families.
You can support Work of Worth by purchasing an item (or ten) from their shop.
I am delighted to reveal the Tightly Wound Woman’s Curated Collection today. My collection features four specially selected pieces that represent my style and heart for you.
As you can see most of the products I was drawn to were shades of blue. It is my hope that this #TightlyWoundWoman community will not just be saddened by the plight of those in the sex trade but that we will do something about it.
The items in my collection range from $10 (Enlightment Mint Soap), $15 (Birds on Line journal) and $30 (Eternal Beaded Scarf and Tribal Meets Regal Necklace).
Would you consider purchasing one (or all) of these items as we do more good around the globe? It’s a win/win! You get a handmade item to keep or give away and you help bring dignity and freedom to others in the process.
I would love to see which items you choose. Take a picture of yourself with your Work of Worth purchase(s) and tweet it or instagram it. Please include @ImprintsKatie and @WorkofWorth so that we can celebrate with you.
You know, Wound Up Women, we have been given a tenacity and strength that can be used for great good in our communities, country, and the world. When we pool together our small offerings and cast them down in worship we create great waves that can carry compassion to those drowning in their circumstances.
Don’t be embarrassed by the shades of blue that your soul wears as you grieve over those that are trapped. Use that emotion to give motion to making a difference in the lives of even one who is bound.
Thank you friends for all the ways you make a difference!
You have great value because you were formed by The King and He delights in your company. Your life matters.
Hopeful in Him,
Katie
P.S. You can also view my curated collection on Pinterest and see other bloggers’ collections there too. Which one is your favorite grouping?
P.P.S Linking up with Kelly for the #RaRaLinkup. Join us as we may Him known with one loud voice!
Katie,
What a great cause and your items are beautiful…we already support IJM and my budget won’t allow me to buy anything extra right now but I shared your post on FB and Twitter…blessings to you 🙂
Wow! Katie, I so love your heart for this! I will definitely support your efforts! Thank you so much for sharing this! I wholeheartedly pray that THE LORD’S favor would reign in all that you do. Infinite blessings to you, Love! 🙂
#RaRaLinkup 😉
Katie, I am so thankful that He sets captives free.
Stopping by from Kelly’s and cheering you on as you continue to pursue this calling to help sets captive free. Blessings 🙂
It’s hard to remember sometime that God offers the same grace and forgiveness to the villain and the victim. But it’s something I have to cling to and remind myself of over and over again.
Katie, What a cool cause! Thank you for talking about this important topic and bringing your heart and soul to it.
Katie, what a beautiful line of goods. Thanks for sharing about a great organization and I love your powerful words here: “When we pool together our small offerings and cast them down in worship we create great waves that can carry compassion to those drowning in their circumstances.” Visiting from #raralinkup. Have a great day!