I’m supposed to be doing homework, however, I have decided to reward myself by blogging (and resting my brain from the overload of Statistics).
When I first moved to Dallas and began attending The Village Church, I found out about an organization called Champions of Hope. This is a mentorship program based in South Dallas. There are many mentor type programs in the area, but this one is…
1. Faith-based: All our mentors are Christians and are upheld to a signed statement of faith. 2. Long-term commitment: We ask our mentors to mentor a child from the 4th to the 12th grade. 3. South Dallas: We are solely focused on reaching children in South Dallas. Our mission and desire is to see individual and community transformation in the South Dallas/Fair Park neighborhood. We are currently targeting children in the Lincoln High School feeder schools. All of our energy and efforts are focused on this one community to see lasting, generational change in the years to come. http://www.championsofhopedallas.org/
Like I said, I heard about this about 3 years ago. But because of the long-term commitment (and my plans of being back in Swaziland by now), I was hesitant to make this commitment. The opportunity of attending a mentor training session came up. So I went up to the church to find out more. The Lord had placed this organization on my heart 3 years ago and it’s still there. Could I have been pouring into the life of a South Dallas youth for these years? Probably, but I also realized that the Lord has been bringing me through a time of renewing my mind, refreshing my spirit and drawing me closer to Him. In my years of ministry, I have above all learned the importance of having my foundation in Christ. This is the only way that I will be able to continue in ministry. Ministry outside of God’s strength has proven to be draining, frustrating and overwhelming. There was no way I could jump back in and pour into others when I felt so broken, lost and detached.
Not that I have all my ducks in a row, but in the season I am currently walking through, God has given me a desire to pour out to those around me, to walk in Biblical community, to walk under spiritual authority and to move beyond the fears that have been holding me back. Only Jesus is the one that has produced this change within me (and it’s still a work in progress).
I am so excited about this relationship that will soon begin, not only with my “mentee,” but also with her family. I have no idea what this is going to look like, but I’m in it for the long run! Please be in prayer for this new relationship, that the Lord will be the foundation and for safety and wisdom while I’m in South Dallas.
What a wonderful opportunity for you and the Mentee!!!