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My heart was broken last Saturday morning when we visited a garbage dumpsite for large city in the Philippines. I was so touched by the condition of the children who live there. They survive on the garbage. They wear clothing and shoes they dig out from someone's else's trash. Sometimes they even scavenge for food. They dig through the trash to find items they can clean up and sell or that can be sold to re-cycling shops. They are dirty and many have no shoes, not even cheap flip flops.
When we arrived, about a hundred children greeted us with big smiles and great joy. They were so happy to see us. Of course we took lots of good food to give them.
This was the situation that Ras Robinson saw when his life and ministry changed direction in 2001. He had preached in conferences and crusades around the world. He was finishing a trip in the Philippines where he had ministered primarily to pastors in many locations across the islands. At the last stop, he visited a garbage dump and cried like a baby when he saw the children. He heard God say to spend the rest of his life making sure these children and other like them would not have to repeat the endemic cycle of poverty they had inherited. That is what he did.
He knew the only way those children would ever escape that way of life and have a future would be to get an education. It was also important for them to come to know Jesus and to be mentored and discipled. We sponsored the first group of 7 children which has now grown to more than 1200 with a lot of help from many caring people. More than 200 sponsored children have graduated from college and have jobs. They have escaped the cycle of poverty. They could not have done it on their own. They had no hope for a good life. That has all changed for them because they were sponsored.
Our students have expressed much gratitude for the sponsorship blessings. They know it's value. We too are thankful for every sponsor who has given hope to these awesome children and youth who are working so hard to have a better life.
On this trip we have seen hundreds of children who need sponsors. All of our pastors have children on waiting lists who are praying that they will be chosen. Will you pray with us as be believe God for many sponsors?
If God puts it on your heart to help with the cost of the trip and/or ministry, we can surely use it and will be thankful. This is an expensive trip. To give online, click on the "Give" link below and select "Philippines Mission Trip" in the drop down menu. If you prefer to send a check, make it to "FCM" and mail it to Fullness in Christ Ministries, PO Box 136117, Fort Worth, TX 76136. Please indicate on the check where you would like us to designate your giving.
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