Twesigye Jackson Kaguri’s incredible story of triumph over his childhood poverty to achieve a degree in Human Rights from Columbia University, only to return to the village in which he was born and raised in order to build a school for orphans affected by HIV/AIDS greatly inspired me. So much so, that after only briefly reading some news articles that detailed his story, my immediate response was, “How can I give?”
Kaguri shared some facts that both shocked and encouraged me. For 2 cents American, a child in Uganda can receive a pencil, a requirement for school attendance. For $3, one can supply a child with books for an entire year. These facts greatly moved me; how often do I spend 1, 2, or 3 dollars on items such as a latte, or a snack, without even thinking? What I consider “loose change” or “coffee money” could mean the entire future of a Ugandan child. This information immediately motivated me to take action. I have for a while now felt spiritually convicted about financial stewardship, and I have realized that the better I can manage my finances, the more money that will be available to use for the kingdom of God. I personally struggle with the desire for instant gratification, and I often justify frivolous purchases with the rationale,”I deserve this.” This faulty reasoning suggests that I somehow deserve more and better things than people who live in poverty. It also places my frivolities on the same plane as the basic needs of people such as the Ugandan orphans that Kaguri supports. Too long have I waded in the stagnant waters of apathy, standing by while my brothers and sisters in Christ are swept away by the tides of poverty. Now is the time for me to take action, and I have Twesigye Jackson Kaguri and the Holy Spirit to thank for this realization.
I would highly encourage everyone to join me in rethinking our attitudes towards finances, and to support the ministry of Twesigye Jackson Kaguri and his schools.
No comments:
Post a Comment