Just recently we started working with a group of young people in KZN, South Africa. All of them grew up in child-headed homes. In other words, as kids, they lost their parents through TB or HIV and did not receive any shelter or support, in fact, they just had to carry on ‘as normal’. But now, as children, they were responsible for their little siblings. As young adults, we had the privilege of working with them for a few weeks and getting them job ready!
What a privilege to teach them what it means to have a good work ethic. What a privilege to teach them how to save and to avoid impulse buying. What a privilege to teach them about investing and wealth creation and the complexity, yet simplicity, of compound interest. What a privilege to introduce them to Jesus and for twelve in a class of 18 to accept Him as a Father.
What an absolute joy to see Isaiah 61 come to life before our eyes:
“To all who mourn in Israel,
he will give a crown of beauty for ashes,
a joyous blessing instead of mourning,
festive praise instead of despair.
In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks
that the Lord has planted for his own glory.”
And what a joy to see 18 go for an interview with a national employer and for all 18 get the job!
What possibilities there are on our continent!