Something To Give

Share your dinner with the hungry

open your house to the refugee-

give your clothes to those who lack

and don't ignore your family members in need.

Isaiah 58:7 (My translation!)

Last week we visited two youth groups with Big Brothers and Sisters. We did some training and made time to listen to the experiences of the youth who have recently become '"big brothers and sisters" to orphans and other vulnerable kids in their communities.

An 18-year-old told us that she has begun to visit her "little sister" every week. She spoke with tenderness when describing the living situation of her 11-year-old little sister. She is orphaned and lives with a disabled grandparent. They lack proper nutrition. She had only one set of clothes. The clothes had to be washed in the evening and then put on again the very next day. In response to this need, the big sister we spoke with told us that she found some clothing she had kept from when she was younger and was able to take them to her little sister's house.

The youth we work with at Big Brothers and Sisters aren't rich by global standards. Many of them aren't even rich compared with other Cambodians. Yet they are excited to share what they have. They are happy when they see a need and discover that they have something to contribute. They find joy when they realise they have something to give.

Coming back to Isaiah 58, my prayer is that these youth who give may receive the promises of Isaiah 58 too. Let their light rise. Let them find strength, guidance from God and answers to their prayers. And may all their needs be satisfied.