Giving Back

You probably wouldn't equate the name Tim Tebow with Filipinos. And he's not one. But he was born there. In fact, if you're a football fan, especially, a college one, you'll know his name instantly. Apart from being the Florida Gator's winning quarterback, being the first sophomore to win the Heisman Trophy, and many other outstanding accolades, he's a missionary. Not quite the picture of the jock quarterback is it?
Born on August 14, 1987 in the Philippines, he was a "miracle baby". His mother Pam, while working as a missionary with her husband in the Philippines, was struck by a life-threatening infection that put little Tim's life in danger, so much so, that doctors told her she should abort the fetus. But Pam, being of Christian faith, decided to carry the baby to term. And so she did, successfully. 

Years later, the young star has garnered world-wide acclaim, and not merely for his athletic talents, but for his family's missionary work in the Philippines. BTEA (Bob Tebow Evangelical Association), located on the island of Mindanao, started an orphanage, that now boasts home to 50 kids. To this day, he continues to make annual trips to the Philippines with his Dad to preach the word of God.


In light of the holiday season that is coming, this serves as a reminder of the good work that's being done for those less fortunate. And, try to include your kids as part of your good deeds towards others. You'll teach them about 'giving' and the rewards that come with it. It's never too early to start thinking of the blessings (be they tiny or large) that we are bestowed and to pass those on to others that need it more so. There's always a little more of ourselves we can give, a little more we can squeeze out of our pocket to give, and a lot more gratitude for what we do have.