Everyone loves a great story. As humans, we naturally communicate through story. It is a genuine pleasure to sit down and listen to a dear friend as they share about recent events in their life. We are reminded that we are not alone when we read a book about someone’s life, filled with the same mountains and valleys we all experience. Movies magically transport us into new worlds through story.
Each one of our students has a story. They have dreams about the future. They have insecurities. They have a need to be “seen.” I recently caught up with some of our students on tour with His Little Feet. I asked a few of them to introduce themselves to you. I hope you enjoy getting a glimpse into these developing stories.
On a practical level, these students need help. Their families are working hard to secure a world-class education. Some parents work on Hope Haven’s farm to earn tuition credits. Others work hard somewhere else to pay school fees. They all recognize that they are crafting a better story for their family, but they can’t do it alone.
Crafting a better story? What does that look like?
At Hope Haven Rwanda, we believe it means building a spiritual foundation first. Faith is priority one and we take that responsibility seriously.
Helping families craft a better story also means intentionally helping them shift the trajectory of their lives. Where will this family be in 15 years? What traditions will define them? What will the family culture be? Will they be able to earn enough to provide for their family? Will they serve as leaders in the community, church and marketplace?
These stories (and our own stories) are being written right now. Today.
A recent worship song, “The Blessing,” has enriched my life. Singing it at my church along with hundreds of other worshipers was a highlight of my January. The lyrics are based on these four Scripture passages: Numbers 6:24-26, Exodus 20:6, Deuteronomy 7:9 and Psalm 103:17-18.
The song specifically addresses the stories of “generations”: ”But the lovingkindness of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him, and His righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep his covenant and remember His precepts to do them” (Psalm 103:17-18).
What story are you writing today? Will your story be an inspiration to others? Will future generations look back and reflect on the way that you changed your family tree?
Let’s go write good stories!