You would not know it from Darren's** sweet attitude, but his life has been filled with fear. He and his younger brother were literally roaming the streets at the age of six and four until their loving grandparents took them in to raise. They have now been regular "fixtures" around Aslan for the last four years. Even though Darren and his brother have not lived with their mother for seven years, it still was a tremendous shock to them when their mother died from AIDS only a few weeks ago. There are so many times Darren could easily have just given up. On the contrary, he is instead developing into a real leader - both in Aslan Youth Ministries and his school.
Last Wednesday afternoon something truly amazing took place at our Long Branch program where Darren serves as a junior counselor. When he did not show up on time, Lynn Ann assumed he would not be able to come that day. However, just as things were starting who should walk in with his trademark smile but Darren. The first words out of his mouth were, "I'll bet you wonder how I got here, don't you?!" Then came the big surprise. Darren's uncle gives him five dollars each week to "share" his room. This Wednesday he told his uncle if he would drive him to Long Branch, he would not have to give him the five dollars. What a wonderful sacrifice Darren made, and how graphically it shows how much being a part of Aslan means to him!
It is such a privilege to just be here for Darren and so many, many others. These children are lost in fear, but the warmth of God's love shines through to them in the ministry of Aslan. Thank you for being a part of this important work through your prayers and gifts.
Most sincerely,