Whew! 2020 is over!
We made it.
What a memorable year, huh? I have been reflecting recently on how 2020 will affect children around the world. What will the next generation remember about this unique year?
For some, it will mean a year of lost education, or at least reduced access to education. Others may have watched their parents experience unprecedented levels of stress. Illness may have been part of their story this year, or affected someone in their family.
One thing is for sure, we will never forget 2020.
A highlight of 2020 for the Peters family was the wedding of our daughter, Brittany to our new “Bonus Son,” Cory. They scheduled their wedding months in advance, with hundreds of invitees. As it became clear that weddings were going to be different in 2020, Cory and Brittany made some unwanted changes. They changed the date, the venue, the wardrobes, the menu, the reception, the honeymoon and limited the event to 15 immediate family members. It was very different than they expected, but they handled the disappointment well.
I was honored to be the officiant for this delightful day in our family’s story. As expected, a few tears were shed and smiles of joy spread around. Flashbacks from Brittany as a little girl popped up and we shared sweet memories. It was a historic day in our family. Though it was different than any of us expected, it was the beautiful launch of a new family—the next generation.
We often dream about the life-changing investments happening at Hope Haven Rwanda. Brittany grew from a baby in the arms of very inexperienced parents into a beautiful woman. In the same way, our Rwandan students are growing, both at home with their parents as well as under the tutelage of the experienced teachers and leaders at Hope Haven. They are the next generation for Rwanda, and it is our joy to help equip them.
As with our own children, preparing Rwandan students is a long-term investment. The ROI may not be clear for decades. Yet, we know how important education is. We are confident that these children will grow into the Christian leaders of Rwanda.
If 2020 reminded us of anything, it is this: the most important things on this planet are people.
We are all image-bearers of God.
Every life matters.
As we enter in 2021, let’s commit to doing life better.
Loving better.
Serving better.
Making investments in the next generation.
The relational investments we make today will pay huge dividends in the end. What a wonderful day that will be!