When you work within the child sponsorship ministry branch of ACE, it’s common to contemplate Jesus’ words that the poor will always be among us. Jesus did not come to eradicate poverty on earth. He came to meet people where they are and lead them into the fullness of life.
Recently, our child sponsorship coordinator, Latoya, had the eyes of Jesus and took notice of twin boys who were always helpful whenever she was in the area. She began asking questions about them and realized they could benefit from sponsorship.
Their mother was caught in the heartbreaking cycle of poverty that places great hope in men who promise the world, only to leave once a child is on the way. Sadly, this is a story we hear far too often within the program. While it would be easy to make a list of what the mother should have done differently or insist she should have made better choices, the question still remains: what about the children?
The twins’ mother developed a blood clot on her heart during the birth of her fifth child and became gravely ill. With the help of the community, these precious boys — only seven years old and soon to turn eight — began caring for their three-year-old, one-year-old, and newborn siblings. We are saddened to share that their mother has since passed away.
As a ministry, we often wrestle with what to do in situations like this. The needs are immediate and overwhelming. These children need stability, care, nourishment, and love during an incredibly painful season of life. So, we prayed and asked God for wisdom. We provided food and supplies for the children and made daily visits to ensure their needs were being met.
In these tough situations, we are deeply grateful for staff members like Latoya who take the time to truly SEE children, like these twins, and ask questions to better understand their lives. It reminds me so much of how Jesus interacted with people — intentionally seeking out the overlooked, the vulnerable, and the least expected so that life change could happen.
May we at ACE always see and love people the way Christ does. Please continue to pray for these precious children and their futures.
