THE HOPE FAMILYHearts That Preach Messages of Love

Every time people ask me to say what I do in life, I hesitate to respond. Not because I lack an answer—I have answered this question many times—but rather I’m figuring out which response would best describe what I do. You see, I’m a field scientist by profession, an activist by passion, an artist by hobby, a Gospel worker by obligation, and, most recently, a HOPE Malawi fellow by day. Of all the things I do with my time, it never occurred to me, not even once, that I would work with savings and credit associations (SCAs).

When I enrolled at the University of Malawi, I thought I would end up building a career in field sciences as an environmental expert. While in college, I served as chairperson for the Environmental Club and delighted in doing a good job there. But little did I know that God was preparing me for a career beyond just “doing a good job.” I was made for stewardship of valuable things, to care for nature, people, and the spiritual needs of myself and others around me.

It wasn’t until I joined the HOPE Malawi family as a SCA programs fellow that I began to realize the potential I have in my God-given talents. Through my involvement with HOPE, I have come to know that there are four relationships that must be maintained—with God, with myself, with others, and with God’s creation. Learning from Roman 1:20, we see invisible qualities of God (divine nature and eternal power) through things created by Him. I’m grateful that my studies in environmental sciences have improved my knowledge of God in this way. However, I would not appreciate the full ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:11-21) entrusted in me if God did not give me a chance to work with the most underserved communities to understand material and spiritual poverty.

When I joined HOPE, I had a mixture of fears for the tasks ahead and also excitement for a new career opportunity. My fears were that my skills—accumulated in the domain of science—would not blend in with the work that HOPE and its partners do. Through prayers and mentorship, I’ve learned to use all the talents that I have to achieve the mission of investing in the dreams of families in the world’s underserved communities! My fellowship has included valuable trainings, lateral learning, and hands-on experiences that have expanded my capabilities and make me a better steward than I ever imagined I could be.

Thanks be to God for this fellowship and the wonderful HOPE family I now have!