More than two dozen test teachers
and volunteers braved Saturday market morning traffic to share their
experiences and make suggestions for improvement. Several others came in preparation for their
intention to test teach next term. I led devotions centered around the verse
that had been the focus of the Easter message at our church and which had been such
an encouragement—1 Cor. 15:58. We so appreciate these mostly young people who
willingly give their time to teach a new curriculum in the schools…and I wanted
them to know that their labors are not in vain.
We then moved into a testimony time
when the teachers of Forgiveness (Lower Primary) and Purity (Upper Primary and
Secondary) shared some highlights of their experiences. We all were cheered by
stories of test teachers getting permission, teaching the Values lessons in new
schools, students grasping the importance of abstinence, and behavior changes
noted especially after the 4th and 5th lessons. I was not prepared however for one SU Staff
who “told it like it is” as she taught the Purity lessons in a new school. She was shocked by what her Primary 5 and 6
students “knew” and by the revelation that a number in her class have been sexually
abused by their own relatives. I “lost
it” at that point and we paused for prayer for God’s mercy upon these precious
children. I must confess a feeling of hopelessness as I pondered the
pervasiveness of immorality and injustice especially against women and
children.
I was still processing the horror of
abuse in homes the next morning, Sunday. “Can we really make any difference? The
problems are so huge, the poverty so deep.” Just then Ruth shouted from the
office, “You’ve got to come and read this….” I joined Ruth and we praised God
together as we read the news of a memorial gift of $20,000 mailed to SEND
International designated for Values Publishing (which is the amount needed to publish
another module on all 3 levels!). Just
when we needed assurance that we/God can make a difference and He wants us to move
forward, this email arrived! All praise to our God.
“Christ has
risen…and your labor is not in vain.” 1 Corinthians 15:57, 58
"Praise God from whom all blessings flow!" And what an amazing blessing has flowed upon you. What an amazing encouragement.
ReplyDeleteWe have asked, "How can there be so many orphans?" Based on the little we know, we have concluded that one of the major reasons is rape and incest.
Praying for you as you face the challenge of dealing with the subject of purity. Yes the problems are huge and deep. But as you act in obedience, the results are God's responsibility. And nothing is too huge or deep for Him.