Sometimes the problems of the world rattle me. On the news, the Internet, the street corner--everywhere, there is talk of war and famine; sex-trafficking and hate. As a Christian and a mom, I not only want to pray about these problems, but help physically and financially doing what I can to help irradicate them. I also want to model for my children what it means to be a committed Christian engaged in the culture, reflecting Jesus as I do.

Should we talk with our kids about the world? Let them pray with us, give some of their money to these causes as well?

Absolutely.

But sometimes, we can model reaching out to others to our offspring who are watching by simply whipping up a batch of muffins.

Gather your kiddos and ask them this question: "Is there someone you know who is facing a hard time? Maybe they've had a death in their family or some sickness or some other sadness. Or, is there someone you can think of who lives all alone and might be cheered up if we visited them and took along a freshly-baked batch of muffins? Can we think of a person or family who might be struggling financially?"

The world is big. We can't solve all of its problems or help all of its inhabitants. However, Mother Teresa's words are true:

Never worry about numbers. Help one person at a time, and always start with the person nearest you.

These moist muffins are perfect for taking to a neighbor, making for a family who is facing hard times, or even giving as a back-to-school treat for a teacher. So easy and trendy. Delicious too!

When you deliver them, be sure to ask what prayer concerns they might have. Or see if the is any work your family can do around their place. Might they need a ride to an appointment or two? Offer to help in any way you can.

Whip up a batch of these tasty pastries with your kids tonight and then go brighten someone's day. You'll be helping---even if in just a little way---to change the world.

Cinnamon Cappuccino Muffins

Espresso Frosting

6 oz. cream cheese, softened

1 Tbs. butter, softened

¾–1 c. powdered sugar

½ tsp. instant coffee granules

¼ tsp. almond extract

¼ c. miniature semisweet chocolate chips

Muffins

2 c. all-purpose flour

¾ c. sugar

2½ tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. cinnamon

¼ tsp. nutmeg

½ tsp. salt

1 c. whole milk

2 Tbs. instant coffee granules

½ c. butter, melted

1 egg

1 tsp. vanilla extract

¾ c. cinnamon (or semisweet chocolate) chips

In a bowl, combine all frosting ingredients except chocolate chips and beat with an electric mixer until smooth. Adjust amount of sugar as needed until frosting is a spreadable consistency. Stir in chocolate chips and set aside.

For muffins: in a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. In another bowl, combine milk and coffee granules, stirring until coffee is completely dissolved. Add melted butter, egg, and vanilla. Mix well. Stir into dry ingredients just until combined and then fold in cinnamon chips.

Fill paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 375°F for 17–20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. Cool and frost. Makes 12–14 muffins.