Parker Lipke shows heart of compassion

Parker Lipke is an impressive young man. While most others his age are probably more interested in video games, sports and other activities, 12-year-old Lipke has a heart to help others.

Son of Judge Scott Lipke and his wife Ashley Lipke, Parker Lipke had considered going on a mission trip for two years. When an opportunity arose to join a Heart for Africa team and travel to Swaziland, Africa, Parker knew it was his calling from God.

His mother was not as enthusiastic about the prospect and described how the trip panned out in a story by Adrienne Ross in the Southeast Missourian. Ultimately, Parker helped raise the funds to make the trip possible, working odd jobs here and there.

For 10 days, including Thanksgiving, Parker, his mother and the rest of the team played with children, distributed TOMS shoes, worked with women who sell jewelry and delivered MannaPacks from Feed My Starving Children. As it turns out, Parker had helped pack meals in Cape Girardeau during the Feed My Starving Children food-packing event.

We encourage you to read the rest of the story in the Dec. 28 Southeast Missourian or online at semissourian.com. It's an inspiring look at a young man with big goals to help those most in need.

The Lipkes are quick to point out that this was not a two-person trip. It was part of a larger team effort, and we thank all those who participated and the many others, young and old, who serve on mission trips in the United States and to foreign countries. It's a serious commitment but one that pays big dividends -- not monetarily but in knowing you are helping those who have little and sharing God's love. That is a blessing.