Ian meeting children in a Rohingya refugee camp, while visiting one of our Bangladesh partner organisations, in 2018.
At times, we have had front row seats to the work God has been doing through you, in some of the most fragile communities in the world. By God’s grace we have been deeply encouraged by what we have witnessed, and pray as you read these stories of faith in action, that you will too.
Pulled from our 50-year special edition of the Correspondent – Tearfund’s annual magazine – we share stories of impact and extraordinary moments of faithfulness, both God’s and yours.
We begin with a reflection from Tearfund NZ CEO, Ian McInnes.
I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy.
Psalm 140:12
God’s faithfulness to those in poverty is irrefutable. He doesn’t simply remember people in their hardships; he actively moves on their behalf.
The Psalmist reminds us of the lengths God goes to rectify their situation: "I know that the Lord secures justice for the poor and upholds the cause of the needy” (Psalm 140:12).
Tearfund supporters have been living instruments of God’s mercy and grace for 50 years. Not only does this usher in the Kingdom of God on earth, but we’re also told it’s how we truly encounter Jesus.
In Somaliland, Ian visits a drought response with Tearfund’s partner Medair, providing vital relief during a severe water crisis, in 2009.
Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.
Matthew 25:40
Since our partnership with Compassion began in 1986, we've been wrapping love and nurture around children. Today, through our extensive, government-backed programme tackling exploitation and elevating livelihoods, Tearfund’s work is a testament to faith, faithfulness, and perseverance on behalf of those less fortunate.
In acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly, we arrive at a place where pity has no place. The poorest people on earth are also some of the most dignified people I’ve met. Their determination to rise from poverty, their love for their children, and their willingness to fight injustice never fail to astound me.
Ethiopian children light up with joy as they receive gifts from their Kiwi sponsors, at their Compassion Centre.
Encouragement from a Delhi slum lane
During my first week as CEO at Tearfund, I watched a Year 9 girl take to the stage in Delhi, India. Straight-backed and confident, she explained to a large gathering of dignitaries why she leads her Children’s Committee in her slum lane and ensures every child attends school. The Indian Finance Minister sat in the front row at these 25-year partner celebrations. He followed her to the stage and praised her leadership.
Remarkable as that scene was, it’s not unusual. All over the world, Tearfund’s vibrant and unique mix of independent partners unearths the extraordinary potential that lies within communities and churches, for the betterment of all. Our part at Tearfund, and your part as a supporter, is to recognise God at work and generously get behind that work in a variety of ways - whether through prayer, petitioning for legislative change, or giving to a worthy project, cause, or a child who would benefit from sponsorship and the love of a church community.
Bless you, and thank you for 50 years of faithfulness.