A Family Transformed

By Betty Jo McLelland

In 2012, we set foot in Northern Uganda for the first time. I can still remember the long, winding roads, the narrow paths through the bush, and the anticipation of meeting the very first family whose children we were going to sponsor from this part of the country. Their names were Walter, Jimmy, and Vicky.

Their father, Eron, was blind. The family had nothing—except for one small chicken. And in an act of generosity they gave that chicken to us. I’ll never forget the lump in my throat. Never had I experienced someone giving all that they had.

As we looked into the children’s eyes, our hearts ached. They looked away shyly, as if they didn’t know they were allowed to dream or hope for anything. They had never seen the world beyond their village. No mattresses to sleep on. Only the clothes on their backs. We couldn’t help but wonder: What kind of future would they have? Would they be able to adapt to school or ever have any confidence? But God knew—He knew the beauty of His workmanship!

Now, thirteen years later, we look at these same children—no longer children, but strong young adults—and we can hardly believe what God has done. They are walking in confidence, standing tall as Christian leaders. Walter has become a welder. Vicky just finished her studies and has started her first job as a teacher. And Jimmy, after years of experience as a nurse, recently opened his very own drug shop and clinic in an impoverished community.

All three are now speaking life, faith, and hope into others and want to give what they have received. How I praise God for what He is doing through our sponsors and so many others—making it possible for beautiful kids from poor families to reach their God-given potential and shine their lights for Christ!