Big Sister, Little Sister
Hello Friends,
Easter is the celebration of the greatest victory in human history–Jesus’ resurrection. He took our sins upon Himself and died on the cross for us, absorbing the wrath of God that we deserve. Through Jesus, our sins are forgiven, and we are reconciled with God. At Toronto City Mission (TCM), we continue to share this good news with children and families impacted by poverty through our free after-school programs.
The forgiveness we receive from God empowers us to forgive others. It is only by His grace and transformational power that we can repent and reconcile with those around us. We would like to share a story of two sisters who are being transformed by God:
A hug may seem like a simple expression of love, but it takes the grace of Jesus for Bella to hug her sister, Sophia.
Bella and Sophia started to participate in TCM’s after-school programs last year. Like many sisters, they often compete or argue with each other, and this sibling rivalry creates ongoing conflict and tension at home. During our programs, we often see them say hurtful words to each other, especially body-shaming comments. We usually have to correct these behaviours and remind them to speak more kindly.
Over the past year, we have witnessed God’s work in their hearts, especially Bella’s, the older sister. Bella has shown an incredible interest in exploring her faith and relationship with Jesus. She took the initiative to attend Bible studies at a local church and even asked for a Bible. Through building a relationship with her, she is opening up to our Outreach Workers more, asking us questions about God. This allows us to share our faith with her. Gradually, we saw an undeniable change in her. Bella shared with us that she felt convicted of the way she had been treating Sophia growing up and prayed that she could love her sister better.
This transformation is beautifully highlighted in a recent event. One day, Sophia suddenly started sobbing uncontrollably during the after-school program. We had her sit in a separate room while her sister, Bella, had her arms around her. We found out from Bella that their family is experiencing a really tough time. A week later, we asked Sophia what made her cry so hard. To our surprise, she cried because her sister hugged her and said she loved her for the first time. When Sophia asked her sister why she did that, Bella said it was because of Jesus changing her heart. We give glory to the One who is transforming the sisters’ hearts!
We desire to see more families, like Bella and Sophia, live transformed lives through Jesus.
With $35 a month, you can help TCM continue offering after-school programs at no cost to children and youth impacted by poverty so that more families will hear and receive the life-changing Gospel that brings joy, peace, and hope.
In His Service,
Elliott Shin
Executive Director