Small Blessings
Are the greatest gifts!
Many times, I have felt the overwhelming weight of trying to respond to the very real and obvious needs of so many people in Mahajanga. Over time, however, I have learned that God often asks me to share His love in very simple ways. When we are burdened by the magnitude of the larger needs around us, it is easy to miss these small opportunities. Yet it is often in these moments that we experience the greatest joy.
This week, I had the pleasure of meeting a 14-year-old young man. During our conversation, I asked what he hoped to do after finishing school. Without hesitation, he said he wanted to become a professional soccer player. When I asked if he was any good, he confidently replied, “Yes!” It was clear that he was bright and precocious. I asked how he was doing in school, and he proudly told me, “Very well.”.
Then he asked if I could get him a soccer ball. Instead of answering immediately, I suggested we make a deal. I asked him to bring me a letter from his teacher stating that he was a good student—polite, hardworking, and committed to his studies. If he could do that, I promised I would get him a soccer ball.
The next morning at 10 a.m., my phone rang. It was the young man, excitedly announcing that he had the letter. Within the hour, he was standing at my door, letter in hand. My translator confirmed that it was indeed from his teacher, who praised him as a wonderful student and even went so far as to suggest that he deserved a soccer ball!
I had the great joy of taking this young man to purchase a soccer ball. In the store, soccer balls ranged in price from 40,000 to 75,000 ariary ($10–20 USD). He chose a 55,000‑ariary ball and carried it away as though he had been given the crown jewels. It was a very small investment, but one that I hope will encourage him to continue striving for excellence. Perhaps he will become a world‑famous soccer player—or perhaps not. Either way, your generosity allowed me to affirm and encourage him in his hard work.
I share this story simply to say thank you for your support, both prayerful and financial. These may seem like small things, but God often uses small things to make a big difference—after all, He once changed the world through a poor baby born in Bethlehem!
To make a donation in support of my ministry please use either of these links:
Darrell, I have been trying to reach the Church of the Good Samaritan to ensure they have my address to send my tax receipt to, however, every attempt has failed. Could you let them know both my email address and home address: frbkirby@telus.net Rev. Fr. Brian Kirby 254 Snowdrop Way, Parksville, BC V9P !e7