The Power of a Parent

Our partners in India and Rwanda are a lot like parents. They care for these kids willingly, though it is never-ending sacrificial work. In Paul’s last personal letter to Timothy, he mentions two things that Timothy’s mother, Eunice, did that made such a positive impression upon her son. These are the same things our partners are demonstrating before our orphans. And like Eunice, our partners will be highly rewarded in Heaven.

First, she demonstrated FAITH. “I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” (2 Timothy 1:5). Timothy had often seen his mom trust the Lord when confronted by a difficult circumstance. Our orphans observe this same reliance on the Lord when our partners face challenges. When it comes to faith, more is caught than taught. 

Second, she exposed Timothy to the SCRIPTURES. “From infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” (2 Timothy 3:15). She raised him to respect and follow the teachings of God’s Word and to receive Christ while he was still young. This is the primary message that our partners share with their charges.

This is not a guarantee that all the kids will become Jesus-followers. But it does increase the likelihood that they will. They are trusting that eventually these orphans will recognize the value of personally deciding to follow Jesus. “Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6).

Your investments in AHEC enable these partners to have a positive influence on more and more orphans for Christ. Thank you.

Marlon Furtado