The -Mber months are here again, but it will be a blessed season if we start budgeting for the less privileged now than ever, writes Pastor Ngozi H.Asoya. What are your budgets for the widows and orphans?
Introduction:
Our hearts are filled with excitement and expectation as the Christmas season approaches. It's a holiday when we gather with our family and loved ones to exchange presents and promote the message of love and optimism. It's important to realise, though, that not everyone is as lucky as we are. The growing cost of life in Nigeria, daily rises in the price of products, and the general economic slump have imposed a severe burden on the marginalised, notably widows and orphans. Let us turn to the wisdom of Isaiah 1:17 in the spirit of the season, which says, "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause." Let us heed these words this Christmas and campaign for the less privileged to participate in the joy of the season.
Understanding the Struggles:
Widows and orphans in Nigeria encounter several obstacles. Many families are struggling to make ends meet as a result of the economic slump, and widows are frequently left as the primary breadwinners, saddled with the obligation of providing for their children. These women are struggling not just with the loss of their husbands, but also with the brutal reality of poverty and societal prejudice.
Time for new clothes and toys: a widow's nightmare
Furthermore, growing living costs have made it more difficult for widows and orphans to obtain basic essentials such as food, shelter, and education. Children who have lost their parents are frequently denied the opportunity to acquire an education, keeping them in a cycle of poverty.
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Rallying for Change:
It is critical that we hear the appeal of Isaiah 1:17 in these trying times. We must learn to do good, seek justice, and bring injustice to an end. Our society's marginalised, particularly widows and orphans, require our assistance now more than ever. Here are some ideas on how we may make a difference this holiday season:
- Donate to Charities: There are numerous charitable organizations and NGOs in Nigeria that focus on helping widows and orphans. Consider making a donation to support their efforts. You can also start a little effort within your community. The indigent don't live on the moon, they are with us, and within our reach.
- Volunteer your Time: Your time and skills can be invaluable. Offer to volunteer at local orphanages or community centres that assist widows and orphans. Visit the orphanages. Organise a reading exercise, share gifts and make the children feel the excitement of the season.
- Organize Food and Clothing Drives: Collect non-perishable food items, clothing, and other essentials to distribute to those in need. Many homes are filled to the brim with unused and used children's wears. Wash them, iron them and these orphanages may be happy to have clothes over their children's backs. Just make sure to give only serviceable gifts that still have some live in them. God blesses in strange ways you know.
- Book Reading Competition: I recall how Dr Tony Nwaka came to the rescue of my Myhappiday Foundation last year. His books were used to organize a reading and spelling exercise in one of the orphanages around me in Ginti, Ikorodu. You too can do the same. Variety is the source of life. The children will learn and be excited. They will have issues to discuss for days to come.
- Support Education: Help sponsor the education of orphaned children. Education is a pathway to a better future, and your support can change a child's life. School fees are skyrocketing in obedience to the withdrawal of fuel subsidy. You can sponsor a child's school fees. I challenge you to do this and see if you would not have the heaven of your blessings opened.
- Raise Awareness: Use your voice and influence to raise awareness about the struggles faced by widows and orphans in Nigeria. Encourage others to join the cause. Like I am doing through this medium, raise awareness about the marginalized members of society. Take responsibility for one or two and we would have helped in creating God-consciousness and hope in those lives.
Conclusion:
Let us remember the less fortunate among us this Christmas season and respond to the appeal of Isaiah 1:17. We may make a big difference in the lives of people who are struggling by pursuing justice, eliminating oppression, and advocating for widows and orphans. We can provide hope, joy, and a brighter future to those in need by working together to exemplify the genuine spirit of Christmas.
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