Moses* approached his Hope Program dad, Nehemiah, one Sunday before church.
“Daddy, can you ask the pastor if I can recite Bible verses in church today?” he asked, and Nehemiah nodded quickly.
“Yes, I will. But let’s also pray God would prepare you for this moment,” Nehemiah responded.
What Nehemiah didn’t know was that Moses had already been preparing on his own. When no one else was watching, he was memorizing Scripture.
Later at church, the pastor stood to lead his congregation, looking at Nehemiah and asking, “Is your son ready?”
Moses walked to the front of the church. He was calm and steady, and he felt confident as he greeted the congregation and started to speak. One minute went by, then two, then five. Moses just kept going, moving from one passage to another, reciting entire chapters of Scripture from memory. The congregation grew quiet, slowly leaned in, attentively listening.
The church was still as he finished. The pastor spoke softly, “Thank you, son, for blessing us with God’s word.” Applause filled the entire room.
On the ride home, there was unmistakable joy on the bus, and voices filled the aisle:
“Well done, Moses!”
“Thank you, Moses!”
“That was amazing!”
Together, they shared lunch, and the energy was different – lighter, fuller, because they had watched one of their own friends stand up and remind everyone what was possible.
These moments aren’t accidental.
Without opportunities to grow and be encouraged, to be given a chance, voices like Moses’ go unheard. His confidence felt unformed, and his potential was left waiting. But this time was different; he stepped forward and spoke from his heart. Everyone in the room witnessed what happens when a young person is given the space to become exactly who they’re meant to be. Your ongoing investment allows moments just like this to happen all around the world. Together, we will ensure no child is left in distress.
