As we look to the new term, we consider how we can ‘Be Great’ and inspire others. In Matthew 25, we read the words of Jesus, inspiring those listening to make a difference to those in need.
Our partnership with the charity Compassion UK is core to our international mission focus. But what do you know about the charity? Here is an introduction to the beginnings of the charity…
More than 65 years ago, Rev. Everett Swanson flew from Chicago to South Korea to minister to American troops fighting in the Korean War. During his time there, he grew increasingly troubled by the sight of hundreds of war orphans living on the streets, abandoned by society.
One morning he saw city workers scoop up what looked like piles of rags and toss them into the back of a truck. He walked up to the truck for a closer look — and was horrified to see that the "piles" were not rags, but the frozen bodies of orphans who had died overnight in the streets.
Swanson could not turn his back on these unwanted children and vowed to find a way to help them.
Swanson was inspired by the words of Jesus in Matthew 15:32:
Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I have compassion for these people; they have already been with me three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, or they may collapse on the way.”
Jesus then went on to bless the small amount of food brought by a small boy, and it was enough to feed 5,000 men plus women and children. Jesus took the small amount, gave thanks, broke it and gave it to his disciples. As we consider what we have been given by God, let us remember to give thanks and use it for his glory.
Needs are everywhere and it can almost feel overwhelming to imagine what one person can do to make a difference. But we know that, when a small stone is thrown into a lake, the ripples stretch further than the original splash. So too, we believe that our actions as a school in connecting with Compassion through sponsorship can have a greater reach to inspire others. We sponsor five children, but we make a difference in five families in one project in Rwanda. Who knows what Joseph, Olivier, Guadence, Jeanette and Liliane will go on to achieve because of our prayers, love and support.
