We’ve been with these kids for over a year now and I’m still surprised at their perception of how they think we will react to a situation. Let me explain.
It is now the end of term 1 for the secondary kids and they have all returned home…meaning the house is loud again! Anyway, they have also brought with them their grades from the first term. Most of the kids either did about the same as last term or have improved, however two of them did not fare as well. We did set some rules for low grades, if a student receives a C- or below for a term than the following term they will not be allowed to participate in games, sporting events, drama competitions, etc. If they bring up their grades the next term then they will again be allowed to participate.
One kid came into the office after our meeting to discuss the issue of getting below C- two terms in a row. All the kids know (at least I thought they knew and understood) that if they receive two consecutive terms below C- then we would have to discuss their educational future. There was never any mention of throwing the kid out or cease educating them.
This child, sorry, young person, was nervous about coming home with a D+ and was actually thinking where could I go if I don’t go home? Honestly it kind of caught me off guard to think she would even contemplate in her thought process that we would kick her out for bad grades. But then I had to remember the culture and yes, many parents do kick out their kids for even lesser offences.
I said we would not kick her out and we are a family, we will discuss the good and the bad. To deal with whatever issue comes up together for the good of the child. Then God laid it on my heart to express to her that I’ve made some bad choices and done some pretty nasty stuff yet God continually forgives me. He does however make me deal with the consequences of my decisions, just like what will happen in this situation, but He loves me and doesn’t throw me away.
The relief on her face was pure joy in my heart! To see the realization sink in that she is a welcome part of this C4KK family, loved and wanted, praise God!
Father God I thank you for this opportunity to share Your forgiveness, love and acceptance, which You have shown me, to this child You have brought into my life.