Dear Sponsor

Last Friday afternoon I sat on the breezy porch of the Training Center, at a table with our social workers and several children who had come to write letters to their sponsors. One little boy was sitting next to me, thinking hard about each phrase he wanted to say, then quickly writing it down. After several minutes he proudly handed his finished letter and drawing over to us to review.

Words were misspelled, punctuation was lacking, and the grammar wasn’t all there, but the letter was beautiful anyway. I couldn’t help thinking about how excited all the sponsors will be when these letters show up in their mailboxes.

During the past few weeks, staff members have been handing out stationery during regular home visits, giving a few suggestions on what the kids might write to their sponsors, but largely leaving it up to them. The completed letters are brought to me for translation, which means I get to read them all.

To be sure, many of these kids don’t understand the full scope of what sponsorship means. They especially don’t realize what a blessing their letters are for those on the receiving end. But the truth is there no matter what—because of sponsorship, these children are able to go to school, get quality healthcare, and hear about Jesus.

It’s so easy for me to forget. I see the success stories, and I forget. I forget that many of those who are now healthy and happy, have come from dark places, and have experienced deep pain that I can’t even imagine.

In letter after letter, I read expressions of sincere thanks and am reminded that this ministry really does change lives.