Three years ago relatives dropped Meghana off at an orphanage. For months she cried and begged for her parents. They would not return, however. Many Indian orphans wrestle with feelings of profound abandonment, betrayal and rejection like Meghana does. The good news? Hope is within reach.
Meghana felt alone in her struggle. Through counseling with her Auntie and Uncle – her Life on Life leaders – she learned that while hardship is a part of life, as a child of God she is fiercely loved and cherished by her heavenly Father. Meghana grasps the reality that Jesus will never leave or forsake her—He won’t abandon her at the door of an unfamiliar dwelling.
Healing deep wounds is a complex process in kids’ hearts, but three aspects of J127 Clubs are key: Counseling techniques and group discussion bring the dark places to light and bring understanding. The Word of God cleanses, teaches, and cuts to the heart. Worship gives the Holy Spirit unique access to do tender mending of the soul.
Because Integrity Music is part of the David C Cook family, we have complete access to the most powerful worship music in the world. The music and lyrics of a particular song are woven into J127 curriculum’ lessons and activities. Children memorize the words, come up with their own hand motions, and find unique, culturally relevant ways to seek God.
Consider the song, “The Same Love” by singer and songwriter, Paul Baloche.
You choose the humble to raise them high
You choose the weak and make them strong
You heal our brokenness inside
And give us life
The same love that set the captives free
The same love that opened eyes to see
Is calling us all by name
You are calling us all by name…
Healing takes place within worship. It sets the scene for children to draw near to God (James 4:8), experience the fullness of joy in His presence, and opens the door for Him to make known the path of life (Psalm 16:11). Through worship they experience a love that “sets the captives free.” In a culture filled with vengeful gods, Indian orphans and semi-orphans eagerly bow down to the One who welcomes them into the safety of His arms.
“The Same Love” by Paul Baloche is incorporated into lessons on coping with betrayal. For children who feel worthless and deal with the sorrow of broken trust, Baloche’s words are a balm to their hearts. There is great healing in his lyrics, but the reality that the God of the universe is calling these children by name forever changes their lives.
No doubt worship changed Meghana. Her Club leaders say she is a new girl. The process of healing will likely continue, but for now Meghana has left her sorrow behind. She makes friends easily and loves to sing in the choir.
Children who experience betrayal and abandonment are heartbreaking—and bewildering. And in the absence of God’s power, generational cycles of despair, rejection, broken relationships, and abandonment repeat themselves. Thankfully real and lasting hope breaks through darkness and redeems the most wounded.
Update: In 2018, David C Cook transferred oversight of the J127 clubs to an in-country partner which continues to shepherd and grow this program. By supporting David C Cook’s Life on Life curriculum, you will be helping support this program as well.
