Introduction by Life on Life editor Susan Thielker
Some ministries are large, with many resources and serve thousands of children. Other ministries are small, with limited resources and serve only a handful of children. Every child is precious in the eyes of the Lord. Life on Life is blessed to partner with both large and small ministries, equipping them to share the love, healing, and life of Jesus with the children the Lord has placed in their care. Loving Shepherd Ministries, one of our smaller partner ministries working in Haiti and Ethiopia, shares their thoughts about the curriculum.
Guest author: Loving Shepherd Ministries
At Loving Shepherd Ministries (LSM), we provide a unique continuum of care from childhood through adulthood. From the moment a child leaves behind his status of abandonment, loss and pain and becomes a part of a loving, nurturing family (called Homes of Hope), we look for ways to speak Jesus’ love and hope into his heart. Through biblical discipleship, child development, vocational training and leadership skills, we equip him to ultimately change his culture for Christ as a self-sufficient, godly leader. Each of these pieces is part of a larger puzzle.
That vision takes a village. We are grateful for how David C Cook has shared their quality resources with us. The Life on Life curriculum has helped us equip vulnerable children in Haiti with the love and support they need to find healing and begin reaching their full, God-given potential. We believe the resources in Life on Life are instrumental in reshaping stories of pain and hurt into something God can use in His kingdom.
Biblically-based resources and opportunities, coupled with love and support are changing everything for Haitian children like Jean.*
Jean’s mother was killed by voodoo magic and he suffered nightmares for years. But through the teachings and practical support he has received, Jean now has a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. He is free from the anxiety and fear he lived with for so long. He can build loving relationships today because of these healing lessons and the people who have invested in his life. Imagine the impact that Jean will have on others because of his experiences!
Children like Rosette* can speak with confidence about God’s love.
Her mom died when she was only 10 and her father believed a bad spirit had been placed in Rosette. He abandoned her, leaving her feeling confused and unloved. After coming into an LSM Home of Hope, she began the long road to healing. Through her supportive Home of Hope parents and the teachings of Life on Life, she is now a 21-year-old young woman who knows her worth in God. She shares, “Above all I would like to say, thank you to God. Now I am not abandoned and sleeping under a dripping sheet anymore. The most important part of my healing came in the gospel. My faith is growing every day. I love Jesus and want to share my faith with my community.”
The resources of Life on Life are helping to change lives.
A generation of formerly vulnerable children are impacting their communities throughout Haiti by their personal relationships with Jesus, capable leadership and empathetic care. This is speaking hope to children for generations to come, by offering them healing on the firm foundation of biblical truth!
Learn more about Loving Shepard Ministries at: loving-shepherd.org
*names changed for privacy
