Blog post by Carly C., Team Ethiopia 2011
“We learned that orphans are easier to ignore before you know their names. They are easier to ignore before you see their faces. It is easier to pretend they’re not real before you hold them in your arms. But once you do, everything changes…” – David Platt, “Radical”
This quote is so true. We have all heard the statistics about orphans and poverty around the world but when you actually see the little faces and have personal connections with the orphans, it sparks something inside you that makes you want to do something about it. About a year and a half ago I was able to spend a week in Peru and while there, worked and ministered to some orphans. It is the best feeling in the world to spend time with these special kids — to see them laugh, play and just be kids despite the fact they may be hungry, abandoned and poor. It is great to be able to bring a smile to their faces and show them the love of Christ.
My aunt and uncle adopted a little boy from Russia about a year and a half ago. He is the sweetest and most precious child I know. It pains me to begin to even think about where he would be if he was still in the cold and dreary orphanage my aunt and uncle adopted him from. He could be on his way to becoming part of the 70% of orphaned boys in Russia who become hardened criminals or part of the 10-15% of orphans in Russia and the Ukraine who commit suicide before the age of 18. I can now look at him and know that he will always know what it’s like to be loved and wanted — not only by two parents here on earth but he will also know of love from his heavenly Father.
Most orphaned children go through things the average person cannot even begin to imagine. Things such as starvation, forced prostitution, HIV or AIDS, neglect, and many others. God calls Christians to do something about this. I don’t understand why more is not being done. We need to inform people and churches about this worldwide need. If more people could see the faces and spend time with these children, I feel they would be more inclined to do something about it – help in some way.
It can get discouraging looking at the number of orphans worldwide — between 143 and 210 million. It is hard to think that one person can actually make a difference when the problem is so huge. But when I think about changing just one child’s life and showing at least one child God’s love, there is no question about whether or not I should help. I know that with God, I can do that and so much more! We need to come together as the body of Christ and let God use us! If God can create the entire universe I know that he can use me, and others who are truly willing, to further his kingdom and to show orphaned children his true, unfailing love.
Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.
Proverbs 31:8-9
Carly C. will be serving on the Ethiopia Journey 117 Team leaving in December 2011.
