The power of a shoebox & how one gift can change a life with Izabella McMillon

Update: 2025-10-28

Description

Hey friends,

Have you ever packed an Operation Christmas Child shoebox and wondered where it might end up? Or what kind of impact something so small could really make?

This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Izabella McMillon, who received one of those shoeboxes as a child growing up in Romania. Her story is deeply moving, a real glimpse into how God can use simple acts of generosity to open hearts and change lives.

We talk about how something as small as a toothbrush or a stuffed animal can become a doorway to the Gospel, and how serving together as a family can shape your kids' hearts for compassion and mission.

Here are a few things you’ll hear in this episode:

The moment a shoebox revealed God's love to a young girl in Romania
How small acts of service can create a ripple effect in a child’s life
Why participating in Operation Christmas Child builds a global perspective in our kids
Practical tips for turning shoebox packing into a fun, meaningful family tradition

Izabella grew up in Romania and now works with Samaritan’s Purse as a speaker and ambassador for Operation Christmas Child. After receiving a shoebox as a child, she now helps share the Gospel and invite others into the mission of reaching children around the world with hope and joy. Her story is a beautiful reminder of how God uses people, and shoeboxes, to write redemption stories.

Grateful for this conversation and praying it inspires you and your family to serve together in new ways.

With Love,

Steph

(00:00 ) Introduction to Operation Christmas Child

(02:50 ) Izabella's Childhood in Romania

(06:08 ) Discovering Faith in a Communist Regime

(09:11 ) The Impact of a Shoebox Gift

(11:50 ) The Journey of Faith and Prayer

(15:00 ) The Power of Prayer and God's Timing

(18:05 ) The Role of Discipleship in OCC

(20:59 ) Izabella's Path to Working with OCC

(24:03 ) Packing Shoeboxes as a Family