God’s Goodness

Dear Shining Hope Family,

“Thou crownest the year with thy goodness.” ~Psalm 65:11

How can one verse describe so perfectly—and poetically—the past year at Shining Hope? God has been so merciful to us. So faithful. So compassionate. So kind. And so… well, good. 

Here are just three of the many ways we experienced God’s goodness this past year.

God’s Goodness in the Neighbor Children’s Lives

Over the course of this past year, we estimate that we served around 18,250 lunches to over 50 neighbor children. That could only have happened because of God—and your endless support. These children, many of whom come from broken homes and would otherwise receive only one meal a day, are thriving, filled with joy, and feel deeply loved.

Kalungi reflects, “I can imagine how these children feel after they’ve felt God’s presence when they started coming to us and we began introducing them to God. One thing God has surely simplified for them is daily bread, as Shining Hope has been able to provide it consistently. They have also grown stronger in faith, often telling me that they pray for us even when they are at home.”

God’s Goodness in our Children’s Education

Our 20 children, along with two neighbor girls and three of Justine’s children whom we have been supporting, concluded a wonderful three terms of school on December 6th. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our friends who have supported us relentlessly in this academic year; you’ve uplifted them to the next level in their education. May God bless you for your efforts!

Ernest, Edrine, and Gloria:

God’s Goodness in Nakato’s Life

“From my first treatment and surgery,” Nakato writes, “to the most recent one, each experience has been a lesson in my life. I was born with a condition I thought would be permanent. But then, the time came when I could finally get treatment to feel better. God has the best plans for us. When it’s His time, everything happens effortlessly.

“I didn’t have to worry about the cost of treatment; I just needed to be in the right place at the right time. Being part of Shining Hope has been a blessing for me. I can only say that it was God’s direction for me to be part of His work.

“It’s okay for us to do God’s work without expecting anything in return. His reward is always much bigger than any payment we could imagine. I thank God for all our friends who contributed to this need and who have made my life better. God’s reward to you will surely be in multiples.”

In closing, here is a beautiful prayer—a groan—from Kalungi’s heart:

“Dear merciful God, thank You for the good You have done for us as a ministry. I always appreciate Your presence. We started young, uncertain of how to progress, and life was harshly against us. We were at our worst when the kids only had a cramped, rented shelter to shield them from the rain and the cold nights. You gave us direction and blessings, guiding us to where we are today. Oh, God, I appreciate.”

To each and every one who has supported us over the past year: THANK YOU! Your tremendous kindness, sacrifice, and commitment to our mission truly mean the world. It is through your selfless acts that we are able to provide meals, essential care, and education to those in need. We have seen firsthand how God has used you to impact precious lives—lives halfway across the globe. 

As we walk into the new year, our eyes are fixed on the Lord, expectantly waiting to see how He will continue to use you to shine His light into our community and beyond.

With all our love and gratitude,

Kalungi + Rachel

“Thou art good, and doest good.” ~Psalm 119:68