READ: JOHN 14: 1-9
Jesus replied, “Have I been with you all this time, Phillip, and you still don’t know who I am? (V.9)
Rays of Hope Ministries was established in Blantyre, Malawi, by Willie Mapasuka in 2009. His vision was to give every young person access to a transformative education. A very ambitious vision for a country where 50-75% of the people live in poverty with an average income of $1.90/day. Just finding enough food to survive is a major task for most families. Education is a luxury item for a country burdened by heavy inflation and a huge national debt. Undeterred, and fully trusting in God for his leadership and provision, Willie returned to Malawi after attending the Urban Promise International Program (UPI) in Camden, New Jersey and began transforming his vision into reality. His tireless work, along with that of those he recruited to work with him, have produced results that are so amazing they are hard to “wrap your mind around!”
Since 2022, 13,007 students have received consistent academic support, faith-based mentorship and given daily meals through their After School Remediation Program; 2,484 students have received scholarships to support their secondary school attendance; 400 students have been able to go college; 15,816 students have been evaluated in a cooperative program with the government to ensure they are being taught at the right grade Level to insure future success; 9,350 teachers have been trained to improve their teaching methods; 4, 197 students have been tutored and mentored; 1,469 students have been given business training and coaching; and 63 students have started their own businesses. All accomplished-on grant money and donations. Unimaginable! When you stop to grasp the magnitude of the numbers, your belief in God, and what he has accomplished through Willie and his co-workers, should take your faith to the next level.
Despite being with Jesus, the tangible image of the invisible God, throughout his ministry, Phillip still projected a lack of full belief in him. In short, he did not grasp the magnitude of the power of Christ to launch a God ordained movement, in a hostile environment, that would forever change the world. The obstacles would be great with countless martyrs and sacrifices, but Christ’s church moves restlessly forward with 2.6 billion believers and counting. Have to admit, like Philip, I need to open my mind and heart to the unlimited transforming power of Christ around me every day.
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Willie had a clear understanding that transforming the educational system of a poverty ridden country would be a challenge fraught with trials and tribulations. Believing and trusting in God, with whom all things are possible, enabled him to sow the foundational seeds of change on a scale that defies expectations—and the work goes on. Where is God calling you to put your faith into action?
Dear Jesus, you are indeed Lord of all. Show me my path to faithful action.