From Elizabeth McCallum
This note is from Elizabeth McCallum who is overseeing the work at House of Faith Orphanage in Silembe, Zambia.
Greetings all! Muli buti? How are you?
Here in Zambia I’m finding that the relaxed African lifestyle is evading me, as time reveals more work to be done! The children have a school break in December for planting season, and I have also taken a break from preschool. But my day is FULL of other necessary tasks. (I should note at this point the words of Jesus to Martha:”You are worried and upset about many things, but few things are needed—or indeed only one.”)
While I do take time to sit at Jesus’ feet, I am also glad there’s time to oversee and minister at the orphanage homes. I hope we will be starting the new year with new habits that ensure the best care we can give to the children, and ensure we use resources that God has provided well.
I’m asking for your prayer, especially now that it seems my other responsibilities are multiplying, for the right preschool program and teacher to come together.
Here are some photos from my last month, in case you want to see our newest infant, buckets full of dried caterpillars, or the snake I was given: (no longer available online)
I also wanted to share some sweet words from the kids’ Christmas cards to their sponsors. I think these testify to the work God is doing through His body for the children:
“I didn’t know that I would find myself at the House of Faith. By the love of God I have found myself here.”
“I am thanking God that you keep me safe here.”
“Jesus bless you because you are working so hard to help me.”
“Thank you, I know that you love me.”
“I was a baby and you fed me formula, so I grew up well with your care.”
That last one reminds me of the words of Jesus in Matthew 25: “I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink.” He is speaking to those who have an inheritance in the kingdom of God. They ask, “When did we see you thirsty?” And Jesus replies, “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
What a beautiful way to serve the one who has given everything for us: to follow his example, reach out and help those who can’t help themselves. THAT is the spirit of Christmas. Sacrificial love that motivated Jesus to come to earth as a baby, to grow into a man who would take our punishments so that we can know God!
May your Christmas season be blessed as you reflect on God’s love for you.
With great joy, Elizabeth
Matthew 10:42
If anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.
You may send support or other correspondence to Global Orphan Relief, 16352 Prairie Farm Cir, Parker, CO 80134 or you may give also give electronically at Support the Global Orphan Relief Children.
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Global Orphan Relief is a Christian relief agency serving Orphans in need and a recognized U.S. public charity, tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3). All donations are tax deductible to the extent of the law.