Why Not America?
People have raised the question, “With so many children starving in America, why does Apple of His Eye Charity raise funds for children in India and Rwanda?” The best response to that question is, “Ask the Lord.” While the needs are great in America, they are not limited to the United States. The Lord is also loves and is concerned for those on the other side of the globe. As the head of the body of Christ-followers, Jesus has led AHEC to serve the poor and marginalized in India and Rwanda.
Another question that is often raised: “Why does AHEC encourage people to spend a large amount of money to go on mission trips to India and Rwanda? Wouldn’t it be more effective to send that money to the partners instead?” Mission trips are at the heart of AHEC. Going accomplishes three things.
1. Individually, we feel a much stronger connection to the people and to the work. We are able to see with our own eyes what our money is accomplishing.
2. It also increases the spread of the message about AHEC. After returning home, the participant tells their friends of their awesome adventures they had over there and how they saw God at work. TJ Saling Caldwell, our founder says, “It’s a small price to pay for gaining a heart and understanding of what we do.”
3. She also said, “I don’t think any of us realize the value of meeting in person our partners and those we serve. We are able to encourage and build them up, to love on them and pray together. It is priceless! Our partners care about that as much, if not more, than our money.” When I went, I heard many times that our orphans and widows were surprised that someone from America would take time and pay money to visit them.
A third question often posed is, “Why does AHEC use partners instead of simply building schools and orphanages like other organizations?” TJ gave this answer: “We use partners because our partners are there. They know the needs, culture, challenges and solutions more than we do. It’s not our intention to westernize the areas we work in but rather to come alongside our partners and help them. We’re learning and growing right along with them. A win-win for sure.”
In the past I went to India. Those trips were some of the greatest adventures of my life. If I wasn’t limited by health issues, I’d get on a plane again and head for that country. I hope this blog encourages you to join AHEC on one of their mission trips.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers [whether in Rwanda or India].” (Galatians 6:9–10)
Marlon Furtado