concert of hope

Went to a "Concert of Hope" at my church... put on by a group called Watoto - an children's choir from Uganda. All the kids were orphaned at one point of time. But now speak of a hope and a love they have received.

One girl said "God healed our hearts. And He gave us peace."

Such a simple truth, yet somehow after being "churched" for too long, we forget it. It's simple, really. God heals hearts and restores it with peace.

Three of the kids stayed at my house for two days. So much fun just chatting and eating... three other boys came over and the six of them put on a show for me at my house.

At the concert I found out what the three boys wanted to be when they grew up.

Hakim, age 11, wants to be President
Douglas, age 9, wants to be a Policeman
Michael, age 9, wants to be a Taxi-driver... yes a taxi-driver!

Yes... in my home represented ambitions to affect all realms of Ugandan society.

These Watoto kids (about 1300 kids in total) are truly the future of Uganda. It makes me wonder what it will look like in say, 10 years... the nation will truly be a changed as each of these children become men and women of godly character, high morality, and leaders of the country and the African continent.

The kids really smile. Like really. Not fake ones.. because even their EYES smile! Here are some pics... I have some more on my camera - but since it's film, I need to take 20 more pics before I develop it! :)

After watching them for two days, I'm encouraged and wanting to SMILE more too... A few of us were sayin, we're put to shame because we don't smile enough!

It's their first time in Canada... or outside of their country. Last week they rode an escalator for the first time... and also an elevator. Freaked them out eh! We take a lot for granted...