Ten Thousand Homes

Big Announcement at TTH!

2011-10-04T08:30:00.000+02:00

A New Way to Access Hope and Homes!

Ten Thousand Homes is delighted to announce our new and improved website. We have poured information and creativity in and now invite you to help us raise awareness for the orphaned and vulnerable children in Southern Africa.

We believe this website will be a vehicle for God's work to be done in South Africa and around the world. This is another way God is inviting His children to serve His children. We need YOUR help!

Come and explore the stories, photos and videos of those the world calls "the least of these" and the people He calls "His Greatness". You are part of this movement. Join us in building Homes by visiting our Home page!

Creative Action

The Body of Christ was designed for every person on every corner of the earth to be personally involved with the orphaned and vulnerable. Whether you spend your days in a skyscraper or on a construction site, you can use your hands to make a difference today. We invite you to meet us in cyberspace to join the TTH movement and give others an easy and accessible way to do their part. This week, post the Ten Thousand Homes website link on your Facebook account and encourage all of your friends to get involved. If you are not on Facebook, send an email to your contact list or share about TTH on your blog. Everybody has an opportunity to help us build Hope and Homes today!

www.tenthousandhomes.org

A Message from the Heart

2011-09-27T11:42:00.001+02:00

Last month, Bay Area Community Church (BACC) from Texas hosted a tea time in Dwaleni for the 12 local volunteers who facilitate a weekly feeding program in their community. BACC came with tea, cakes, prayers, songs and encouraing gifts for each of the ladies. During their tea time, the visiting team presented each woman with a heart-shaped locket necklace. After celebrating how beautiful the volunteers looked adorned in their new jewelry, they shared with the women that God had an encouraging word He put in each one of their hearts. The ladies opened their lockets to find they each had a unique Scripture reference. Together, the BACC team, Ten Thousand Homes staff and the volunteers in Dwaleni read each woman's word from God in their native language. The women cheered together and rejoiced in the words spoken over them. The most impactful moment of the tea time was when, upon hearing the Word God had for her, Christina's face lit up, she waved her arms in the air and exclaimed, "I am going to go home and read this verse to my family and then teach it to my church. Everyone needs to hear this!"

Creative Action

God is specific and wants us to hear His specific words for us everyday. It was amazing to watch joy wash over Christina. Pray for continued joy and encouragement over the volunteers in Dwaleni, and that their joy will spread to every child they encounter at Dwaleni's weekly feeding program. This week, believe in God speaking specifically to His children the way Christina experienced it. Ask Him to show you one verse in the Bible to share with someone. Share this verse creatively and boldly like BACC did. Write it in a thank-you card, on a napkin in your child's lunch kit, or even send a text message. Share His Truth boldly, believing He has unique encouragement for each of His children.

Ending the Orphan Crisis as a Family

2011-08-30T07:00:00.000+02:00

Three-year old Lifa has become a cherished and celebrated part of the Ten Thousand Homes family. Abandoned by his mother at 7-months old, Lifa was left under the care of a family from Mbonisweni by his biological father. Staff member, Kacy Chaffin began building a relationship with Lifa in March 2010 when she stayed with this family for a community home stay as a DTS participant. Through consistent love, we have seen Lifa transformed from a silent, withdrawn child to a little boy overflowing with life.

Today, Lifa’s biological father, who was orphaned at a very young age, has come back into his life. Pastor Sthembiso and TTH staff are building a relationship with him that communicates his worth and the power of loving as a family. We are watching a story of God’s full-circle redemption in His orphaned and vulnerable children and are honored to be a part of it.

Creative Action

Lifa currently travels back and forth between his father’s house and staying on the TTH base with Kacy. His joy, security and faith rise with every visit. Lifa’s little voice singing boldly to Jesus speaks volumes to everyone around him as a testimony of transformation. We are watching together that the power of loving one child can change the world. Pray for Lifa to continuously find Home in Christ and to keep singing out Hope to those around him. Pray for his relationship with Kacy and TTH staff to be encouraging seeds of Hope that breaks through generational curses and restores family. As you celebrate Lifa’s story, be a part of the Love that can change the world. Make time this week to give a child extra, undivided love and attention. Do an art project, go to a park, or plan a special outing with a child just to impart the love of Christ.

Jillian's Story

2011-08-23T07:00:00.000+02:00

A recent visitor to Ten Thousand Homes, Jillian Hamp, shares a memorable moment and impactful part of her experience:

My team and I had a real desire to be a part of the community Mbonisweni, so despite incredible cultural barriers, we stepped out in faith and dove in. One day we saw 3 people from the community pushing a heavy wheelbarrow and we managed to communicate our desire to help them. They led us to their home, where we met John and Rosita. John told us, with impressive English, that he had been praying for 15 years that God would send someone to find and help him. We then prayed for healing for both he and Rosita, and while we didn't see immediate healing, I believe the relationship we started with this particular family is one that will leave a lasting impact.

Creative Action

It is often difficult to be the seed-planter or the communication starter. As demonstrated by Jillian’s story, you never know what one conversation, through gestures, prayers or words, can open up for God’s grace to flow through. Whether or not she ever knows the rest of John and Rosita’s story, Jillian left impacted and with increased faith as a seed planter.

This week, pray for John and Rosita and the seeds Ten Thousand Homes is planting around Mbonisweni and Dwaleni. In faith, practice being a communication starter and giving God space for miracles. Start a conversation with someone you’ve never spoken to before, even if you’re not sure what to say. Go beyond your comfort zone, and remember that we were all designed to experience Hope and Homes. Every person is wired to connect and communicate with God and His Body!

Seeing Double: Twins Responding to Hope and Homes

2011-08-15T23:25:00.003+02:00

Building a house for a mother and 14-year old twins, Samkelo and Bongani, this year created a platform for discipleship. Having a secure place to live planted seeds of Hope and Home in two young men who are already stepping up as leaders in their church. They are the only men responsible for caring for their extended family of nine, and seem to always be working on something. Ten Thousand Homes staff members have created a space for family-building and teaching times through Friday afternoon car washes. The twins have an incredible work ethic and desire to be a part of TTH, so some of the staff members bring their cars to Mbonisweni to have quality time, encourage their hard work, and teach the young men important lessons in budgeting. Instead of spending their earnings on sweets, Samkelo and Bongani have saved enough money to purchase seedlings and plant a garden, to pay for a school field trip, and are now saving up to open a tuck shop and sell treats and vegetables to their community.

Creative Action

We are so proud of Samkelo and Bongani and the ways they are quickly learning how to invest and increase with what God has given them. They understand their ability to make a difference and are gaining wisdom as heads of the household. Just a little bit of quality time and teaching from the staff at Ten Thousand Homes is making a lasting impact that will be a loud voice for generations to come. This week, take time to teach someone a life skill that opens up opportunities for them to make a difference. Whether it be teaching a child to tie her shoes or teaching a high school student how to balance his checkbook, know that the simplest life lessons make a way for God to strengthen character.

Speaking Siyabonga's Language

2011-08-09T07:30:00.000+02:00

At Ten Thousand Homes, we’ve had a growing awareness that we need to know the children beyond the feeding programs. This is challenging because talking about home-life, need or revealing parts of your story are cultural no-no’s here. TTH visitor, Lindsay Loveless helped bridge this cultural gap as her heart broke for 7-year old Siyabonga. She sent a suitcase full of winter clothing and shoes to replace the tattered items he pieced on every day. Lindsay included a letter for Siyabonga in his native language expressing God’s love for him.

These gifts of love opened the door for TTH staff to visit Siyabonga and his mother in their home. Truth was spoken over Siyabonga and his mom on that afternoon, and something was changed through the prayers lifted up for them. They responded to the invitation to go to church and are still coming a month later, hungry for more of the glimpse of Hope they have seen.

Creative Action

God started moving through a feeding, a suitcase and a card written in SiSwati. One person responding to one Christ-breathed whisper was enough to start a change that can transform Siyabonga’s life. Speaking the language of a person’s immediate needs often opens the door for God’s love to flow in the most unexpected ways. Pray for continued opportunities with Siyabonga and other families TTH encounters each week. As you pray, look around for someone with a direct need you can meet this week. Share a meal, but a cup of coffee, or just lend a helping hand. Meet someone where they are by noticing a need and meeting it, trusting God to speak to their hearts in His language.

Taking Things Into Our Own Hands

2011-08-02T10:41:00.001+02:00

Ten Thousand Homes is hosting a PhotoGenX DTS outreach team of nine students from six nations during July. This team is always looking for new ways to bless people through their creativity, which expands beyond their photography. In preparation for an outreach trip to visit a family of 15 in the cold mountains of Swaziland, the DTS team came together and taught themselves how to knit. They set their minds on knitting scarves for the entire family even though they had never made scarves before! After several long nights around fires with knitting needles, the team proudly presented scarves to the family. They were even able to teach the mother how to knit before they left. Team member, Josiah Dasher says, "Looking back, if we’d realized the amount of work it would take, we may not have chosen to do it. I’m glad we did, even though as an 18-year-old male it’s not easy to admit to knitting! It was really exciting to be able to bless an entire family with warm scarves, and the enjoyment they got out of it alone would make it worth it."

Creative Action

The family in Swaziland and the DTS team were mutually blessed by this intentional and creative act of kindness. Going beyond what we are comfortable with and putting our time, hands and effort into something new expands our picture of who God is and the creative ways He loves us. This week, take the opportunity to join in His work like the visiting DTS team did. Step outside of your comfort zone to find an out-of-the-box way to love the people around you. As you prepare a new recipe, knit a scarf, make a homemade card, or learn how to change the oil in a car, thank God for inviting us in to be a part of His creative love. Pray for Ten Thousand Homes to pursue more opportunities to creatively love the orphaned and vulnerable children around us.

67 Minutes to Make a Difference

2011-07-25T20:05:00.004+02:00

On July 18th, South Africa celebrated Mandela Day . Nelson Mandela spent 67 years fighting for freedom and human rights, ultimately changing South Africa’s history. To honor Mandela and to acknowledge that one person can make a lasting imprint, many schools and organizations were challenged to spend 67 minutes serving others and making a difference in their communities.

Last week in Dwaleni, a group of youth came to the local feeding program and spent 67 minutes playing with, serving, and washing dishes for the 300+ children whoshowed up hungry for a taste of Hope and Home. After all of their hard work, the youth of Dwaleni ended the day with smiles on their faces. They are looking forward to coming back and serving.

Creative Action

These youth became leaders to the “least of these” by serving them. What started as a 67-minute challenge made a lasting imprint on the youth, showing them that they can make a difference where they live. This week, pray with us for developing relationships with the youth and for opportunities to disciple them as they disciple the children. Spend 67 minutes serving locally to remember the way Nelson Mandela transformed his culture. What are the ways God is challenging YOU to bring transformation in your community?

Leaving Footprints

2011-07-19T08:46:00.004+02:00

Ten Thousand Homes is celebrating the creative expression of our Maker and the Truth that He takes what’s been broken to make something beautiful. Using broken, discarded tiles, we are coming together to make mosaic art. Last week at TTH’s Staff Connect time, we came together as a family to start building a creative path that each team will be invited to join in, just as they are invited to leave a legacy in South Africa when they visit. We are making mosaic stepping stones to pave the way around University Village, symbolizing the footprint each person makes just by bringing his or her piece to His Masterpiece.

Every person in every nation is an important piece of God’s Masterpiece. You were designed to leave a footprint in His Kingdom, just as every orphaned and vulnerable child we encounter each day is. This week, go on a walk outside in the dirt, the sand or anywhere you can leave footprints. As you leave your mark on His Creation, pray for the footprints around you and that every orphaned and vulnerable child in Africa will know his or her place in the Kingdom of God. Pray that Ten Thousand Homes and the community around us can create Hope and Home for these children, one piece at a time.

Digging up the First Fruits

2011-07-05T07:30:00.000+02:00

A few years ago a local farmer by the name of Johan began donating vegetables for the feeding programs Ten Thousand Homes sponsors. Partnering with Johan is the first fruits of a dream TTH has of seeing Africans respond to the orphan crisis. Whether Johan donates beetroot or spinach to the children, it is obvious that it’s a gift given in love. As Carla picked up the veggies this week, Johan had a crate full of juicy grapefruit. Carla shared how excited the kids would be to get these, as grapefruit is a rare treat and Johan then insisted on sending us away with a second crate of this treasure.

When asked why he donates to the feeding programs, Johan shared that sometimes the real blessing is being able to give. Please join us in praying that the crop Johan’s farm yields will be plentiful. As he gives freely and sacrificially, may God’s faithfulness and abundance be evident to Johan.

Johan recognizes the truth that it is better to give than to receive. As you pray specifically for his crops to be abundant as this local farmer gives his first fruit, ask God to bear fruit through your life. In committing to pray for Johan this week, take a moment to share something from your kitchen or garden with a neighbor, friend or co-worker as you share his story. Be blessed by the joy of giving freely, whether you are giving fresh produce, freshly baked cookies, or sharing a cup of coffee.

One Boy's Story

2011-06-28T08:00:00.000+02:00

With each week that Ten Thousand Homes staff and visitors spend time sitting with and serving the children in Mbonisweni, the Wednesday feeding program feels more like a family gathering. Ten Thousand Homes feels called to create a deeper sense of Home for each child. We want to know the children we are serving beyond the gates of the churchyard and beyond their Wednesday afternoons.
As TTH staff pray for opportunities to know the children better, stories, names and faces are emerging as a starting place for creating hope and home among the orphaned and vulnerable children. One boy who just started coming to the feeding program comes more hungry and dirty each week. He speaks very little and even the local volunteers cannot understand his name. The smile on his face upon entering a place to be loved and nourished says more than words ever could. This five or six-year old child is locked out of his home everyday to fend for himself while his mother goes to work. Sadly many children in Mbonisweni share similar stories. Ten Thousand Homes recognizes the invitation to make a difference in the life of this child and to help rewrite his story to one of Hope, Home, and of being Known by his Father in Heaven.

Every person has a story and deserves to be known and loved completely. Please join Ten Thousand Homes in praying for God to break through the barriers that keep us from knowing the stories of the children we encounter each week. As you pray for us, allow God to use you to bring Hope and Home to the people around you. Think of someone you encounter in your weekly routine and ask that person to share their story with you. This is a precious opportunity to speak value to that person and to remind them that they have a story worth hearing.

Love Transforming Every Day

2011-06-21T08:59:00.006+02:00

Last Thursday, South Africa celebrated the national holiday, Youth Day. Everything shuts down for holidays in South Africa – including schools and Sizinani Home-Based Care in Dwaleni. The Sizinani volunteers actively respond to needs in their community daily. The 12 women of Sizinani HBC pray weekly for God to meet the needs of the 300+ children pouring into Thursday afternoon feedings, the sick and struggling they make home visits to, and the well-being of their own families as each woman works full-time without pay.

The Sizanani volunteers welcome a holiday to relax and enjoy their own families. The staff at Ten Thousand Homes was moved profoundly last week as the Sizanani volunteers demonstrated what a servant’s heart really looks like. The women rearranged their schedule and hosted Dwaleni’s feeding on Wednesday, so they could enjoy some much-needed rest Thursday and the children could still receive the love, encouragement and nourishment they were created for.

As you go through this week, look for opportunities to rearrange your daily routine that will speak value to the people you love. Maybe that is taking off work early to attend your child’s ball game or waking up early to cook a nice breakfast for your family. Whatever the action, let love and a heart to serve be your motivation.

Capturing Home from a New Angle

2011-06-14T09:10:00.001+02:00

Ten Thousand Homes recently had the privilege of hosting a team of talented, passionate photographers for 6 weeks during their tour around the world, capturing the beauty of God’s Kingdom from behind a camera lens. While they were with us, the PhotogenX team participated in community stays, spending a few days living with local church members in Mbonisweni to capture the full experience of community life. They made an indelible impact on the homes they stayed in by blessing each home with a photo album of family portraits. Photos are rare and prized possessions in the local communities we work in. Joining families in their daily lives as well as giving them such a treasured gift was an incredible proclamation of hope and home to those who welcomed the visiting teams into their homes. A simple book of photos memorialized family, moments and worth to many. The children who received photos are still showing them off to every visitor who enters their home! We would like to thank the PhotogenX Round The World Track team for offering their gifts to further the Kingdom of God and to bring Hope and Home to Ten Thousand Homes and South Africa.

Building Hope at Home

2011-06-07T07:00:00.000+02:00

A first-hand glimpse at Hope and Home

John and Carla Shaw have been on staff at Ten Thousand Homes for 2 ½ years, and have been faithfully praying for provision to build a home for their family at the Ten Thousand Homes campus, University Village. John, Carla and their daughter Rae have been living in tight quarters since they arrived to South Africa. They have never stopped believing God would create hope and home for them just as they are called to do in the communities we serve. After a hopeful start in March 2010, the Shaws found their house construction at a standstill before the foundation was complete. Hope broke through and started building a home in March 2011, however, when a visitor came and caught the real meaning of “Home”. She wanted the Shaws to know they are valued, they belong and they have inherent worth, just like every orphaned and vulnerable child they feed and care for daily.This faithful visitor with a heart set on creating hope and homes, made a donation toward the Shaws home that was enough to jumpstart hope and complete the first floor of their two-story home.

Carla shares, “Although we had been receiving donations from friends and family, getting a large donation from someone we didn’t even know really broke me. As I talked to God that morning, I told him, ‘I don’t even know her.’ But He said, ‘I know you.’ Then it hit me.That’s what we are here to do. We want the ones that we build homes for to know that God knows them.”
Carla experienced the mission of Ten Thousand Homes first-hand. Pray for the roots of home to continue to run deeply through the Shaw family this week and for financial provision to complete their house. As you pray for the Shaws, consider how God can even use tools and building supplies to teach His children He knows them and that He’ll never stop building hope in us. Put a creative reminder in your daily routine this week to remind you are known and God is building hope and home in you as well as the Shaws. Put a tape measure in your purse, a hammer on your nightstand or something as simple as a rock in your backpack.You are known and God is working in you and in the Shaws. To contact the Shaws, email Carla at cshawbunch@gmail.com.

Seeing Hope and Homes By Candlelight

2011-05-31T07:00:00.000+02:00

A few weeks ago, staff members Keri Dodge and Stanley Mbowane took a Photogenix outreach team to Motjane, Swaziland to serve the Kunene family. Petros and Elisabeth Kunene served as YWAM missionaries until last year when they welcomed seven of their orphaned nieces and nephews into their home.

Keri, Stanley, and the outreach team slept in tents outside of the Kunene’s four-room home for one week. For Keri, a highlight of the trip was eating dinner every night with the family. Keri said, “There were over 20 us in their small living room, sitting on the floor, eating by candle light. Every morning and evening we prayed and worshiped together. For an entire week, I saw Petros and Elisabeth provide love, hope and home to each child. Petros told us that he considers all of the children his. Rarely do you find so much love in one home. I’m thankful and blessed to know this family and hope to be a voice on their behalf, to tell people what they are doing.”

Each child was give a blanket provided by a group of knitters from Lago Vista, Texas. Please click on this link http://www.vimeo.com/24000997 to watch the video put together by Marisa Groff.

Keri, Stanley and the Photogenix outreach team experienced hope and homes in the midst of a winter campout in the mountains of Swaziland, with no electricity or running water, and in an unfamiliar culture. Sharing meals and worshiping together changed every person crammed into that small candle-lit living room. We are a part of hope and homes when we join alongside people right where they are. Pray for increased strength, financial provision and a continued unwavering hope for the Kunene family this week. Celebrate hope and home they way the Kunene's and their visitors did this week, and give yourself an opportunity to remember how accessible our Creator is, even without formality or a controlled environment. This week, share a meal with your family or friends by candlelight. Turn off all sources of electricity at mealtime and enjoy the presence of God and one another. Pray together by candlelight for the family in Swaziland who is also experiencing hope and homes by candlelight.

Prayers Changing Plans

2011-05-21T07:00:00.000+02:00

We invite you to pray along with us regarding our next Compassion Discipleship Training School. After much prayer and processing, our team feels we are supposed to postpone the school, which was originally going to start July 3rd. We don’t want to move forward and make plans just for the sake of making a school happen. Our desire is to hear clearly from the Lord on what the school will look like, who the leader will be, the dates, etc. We’re holding everything with open hands, trusting that whatever God speaks will be better than what we can come up with on our own! Our heart continues to be for discipleship and we’re excited about the many ways that is happening in the communities where we serve.

The Lord's Prayer

2011-05-20T10:44:00.001+02:00

The Lord's Prayer takes on a whole new meaning when you're sitting on the dusty floor of a sanctuary in South Africa, surrounded by hundreds of orphaned and vulnerable children. One of the volunteers was teaching the children this prayer, so they said it again and again until the words were ingrained in the mind of each child. There was a desperation and earnestness accompanying this prayer we've so often uttered.

"Our Father, which art in Heaven..."

Imagine the significance of recognizing God as Father to children who have probably never experienced the safety and security of a father's love here on Earth.

"Give us this day, our daily bread."

It's easy to say that line and not understand the weight of what it's saying. That's probably because most of us don't have serious doubts of where our next meal will come from. Many of these kids don't know what it's like to eat and truly be satisfied. They are getting a nice meal once a week at the feeding program in Mbonisweni. Some might get a meal at school. But what do they do during the long school holidays? The discomfort of an empty tummy is all too familiar for some of the kids in Mbonisweni. Hearing these children ask God for their daily bread was heart-wrenching for me.

The highlight of my time in Mbonisweni yesterday was seeing the kids all line up at the gate to receive a small food parcel to take home with them. This is not a typical thing, but was made possible by a recent donation that was given. I don't think it was planned to hand the food out the same day they were teaching the kids The Lord's Prayer, but I think it happened this way for a reason. It felt like God was trying to show the kids that He is a God of abundance. He knows their needs, but He wanted to bless them above and beyond receiving their daily bread.

Believing WITH and FOR the Big and Small

2011-05-19T07:00:00.000+02:00

Before Keri Dodge and the Kaufman family ever left Africa, the volunteers we work with in Mbonisweni surrounded us and lifted up prayers of faith for God’s full provision during our trip. It wasn’t about us going and getting OUR resources to bring back to them. It was about us standing in agreement and trusting God TOGETHER to meet the needs of the children we serve in Africa. There is power in that! From the 6 year old girl placing a $5 bill in our hands to feed a child in Africa for a month to the CEO funding an orphan home to be built, we’re seeing the Body of Christ respond. We’re so thankful for the opportunities we’ve had to share about all God is doing in South Africa.

Meet Ruth

2011-05-17T12:35:00.003+02:00

Ruth is a 31-year old single mom who lives in a dilapidated shack of scrap aluminum and wood. This shelter can’t stand up to the strong South African storms, leaving Ruth and her 2 sons even more vulnerable every time it rains. Ruth fought tears as she told her story. She’s been desperately seeking work, but for the past seven years has only found temporary jobs that provided minimal and unreliable income. When asked what she wanted prayer for, Ruth openly shared that she was scared to live in her house and she was afraid of running out of food. She is longing for protection and to feel like she’s worth being cared for. TodayTen Thousand Homes staff will visit Ruth and her family to announce that we will begin building a new home for Ruth and her 2 boys! We believe this home will be a testimony to the community that God has not forgotten this family. We see the construction of this home as an opportunity to rebuild Ruth’s hope and her belief that God has good plans for her life.

Home in the Handiwork

2011-05-10T07:30:00.000+02:00

A home is a place to belong, to be known and to be loved. We are building hope and homes together in as many creative ways as possible.The staff at Ten Thousand Homes was delighted to celebrate belonging this week as we watched the nations come together to love and to give hope to the hopeless. Ten Thousand Homes received a package of knitted squares from an American church partnering with Knit-A-Square ministry to be sewn together to create warm blankets for orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa. From American to South African hands, the youth from Mbonisweni came to the home base for Ten Thousand Homes' staff and ministry, University Village, to put their hearts and hands into sewing hope. This week, the sewn blankets are traveling to Swaziland with a team visiting Ten Thousand Homes to be delivered to a family who has welcomed seven orphaned children into their family of six. Taking time to make a few stitches in America has created an opportunity for South Africans to become missionaries, as well as given a warm gift of home to orphaned and vulnerable children in Swaziland.

Just as the staff at Ten Thousand Homes watched warm blankets come together one stitch at a time this week, they saw the Body of Christ come together by putting their hands to work. Pray for the visiting team extending hope and homes in Swaziland this week, as well as the family receiving knitted blankets. As you pray this week, consider the power of building hope and homes in putting your hands to work. Make it personal this week by using your hands to extend belonging and home to someone else. Plant a tree or flower in someone's garden, help change a tire, or offer a helping hand with homework. Your hands can be a part of creating home and extending hope to the nations.

Everyday Worship

2011-05-03T12:12:00.002+02:00

Mbuso Tsela is a 26-year old from Mbonisweni who has decided to live for God beyond what his culture expects and do more than go to church on Sunday. Mbuso was an important part of constructing Ten Thousand Homes’ latest house: Uvikelekile. He opened his heart one day at the Uvikelekile construction site and shared how his story gave him a passion for volunteering. Mbuso struggled in school until he went to a school to help his learning disabilities. He tried to reenter school in Mbonisweni in grade 9, but couldn’t keep up. His self-esteem was shattered, and he left school. Mbuso started getting involved with his church and community in 2007 so he wouldn’t feel so lonely during his empty days. “I loved putting the roof on this house because it’s something I can do well. I’ve done it before at my own house, and it feels good to do something I’m good at. And to do it for God.”

Creative Action

Mbuso said he thought before that volunteers were crazy for working without making money, but now his heart is in it. He is honored to be doing something for God. Pray for Mbuso as he continues worshiping God in his every day life, using what he is good at instead of being discouraged by what he is not. Pray also for the every day tasks in the work that Ten Thousand Homes is doing to bring glory to God. This week, take note of the tasks that can seem mundane and pray for God to show you a way you can serve Him in your daily life. Whether it be a meeting, a class, or a drive, pick one part of your daily routine and give it to God in prayer before beginning. Expect for God to surprise you with his love in the most routine tasks like He did for Mbuso.

Announcing: A New Home!

2011-04-26T07:00:00.001+02:00

Welcome Home!

When tragedy struck a small family in Mbonisweni, the staff at Ten Thousand Homes grieved with a mother and her twin 13-year old sons who had just lost their house in a fire, and then recognized an opportunity to make God's provision of Hope and Home known. The staff cried out to the nations and were responded to with a donation to build a new house almost immediately. Soon after, the community of Mbonisweni, Ten Thousand Homes staff and visiting teams came together to begin rebuilding a house to lay a foundation of hope for a struggling family. This past week, the house was completed and ready to be called home! Eager visitors helped move the family's few possessions and Pastor Sthembiso announced to the Evangelical Reform Church that we were celebrating home with the family that day. Despite slippery red mud and rain drops, several members of the church joyfully made the trek to the new house. Staff member, Kacy Chaffin, announced that this new house was now a home for a family, built with love and by the hands and provision of God. Together, we encircled the home, sang and prayed blessing over it to commemorate hope and home.

Creative Action

Announcing and acting on God's heart for this family has changed the countenance of Busi and her twin sons, Samkelo and Bongani. No matter where they are or what they are doing, Busi and her sons seem to have a smile on their face. They feel taken care of by the Body of Christ. Inviting someone into your story, as broken or burnt as it may be, creates a space the Body to bring hope. Pray that the completion of the construction of this new home is only the beginning of home and hope being instilled in Busi, Samkelo and Bongani. Just as this family feels cared for by hands and feet coming together to build a house, take care of someone this week. Listen for an invitation into someone's story, even if they are only describing the events of their day, and take care of them with your words. Announce hope, offer a compassionate word, or encourage someone. We all have a role in creating hope and home to those around us.

Calling All Disciples!

2011-04-21T07:00:00.000+02:00

There is an excited buzz around the University Village campus as we gear up for the 4th Annual Compassion Discipleship Training School. Compassion Discipleship Training School (CDTS) is an unique opportunity to spend five months seeking, living and learning about the compassion of Christ while living amongst "the least of these". Students from every nation are welcomed to put their hands, feet and hearts into Africa's orphan crisis. They will spend time engaging in the ministry of Ten Thousand Homes, learning in lectures and through creativity, and joining other ministries throughout Africa.We are raising up disciples locally, alongside disciples from the nations, to make a global impact for the Kingdom of God. There is still time to join us for this year's CDTS from July 3, 2011 - November 18, 2011. If you are interested in learning more, emailDTS@tenthousandhomes.org.

Engaging In More Than A Moment

2011-04-19T07:00:00.000+02:00

Courtney Connor visited Ten Thousand Homes and came committed to engaging God, Ten Thousand Homes and the children in the communities fully.

“Two months ago I was on a plane coming here and I didn’t know names or stories, but over these past two months, names and stories have captivated my soul and assaulted my heart. I’ll never forget this place. I’ll never forget the scenery, the children’s laughs and the warm culture that helped me discover what living a full life really looks and feels like. My favorite ministry was the feedings. I really saw God show up, and I was able to love on His broken-hearted children. I will come back… I have to come back.”

Courtney experienced God in every part of her trip to South Africa, from the parts where love came easy to the parts that devastated her heart. Our God is a God Who operates in all fives senses, and can be found wherever we are. Dedicate every day this week to one of your five senses. As you wake up each morning, ask God to reveal Himself to you in touch, taste, sight, sound or smell. Be amazed by the ways He communicates with you when You are fully engaged in Him. As you experience God more fully, pray for visitors who come to Ten Thousand Homes to do the same while they are here. We are called to give ourselves fully as we act as His hands and feet and engage in South Africa’s orphan crisis. We can make a dramatic difference for the Kingdom if we are fully engaging with God.

Uvikelekile Has Been Proclaimed!

2011-04-14T07:00:00.001+02:00

(uvikelekile: a safe place; a sanctuary)

We believe there is value in speaking out Truth and claiming every house we build as a home. Ten Thousand Homes staff members have sensed the overwhelming fear that fills the property and minds of the four boys we are currently building a house for in Mbonisweni. After prayer and conversation, we decided to name this house Uvikekile, so that in every step of construction, we are calling out God's promise for this house of brothers. We shared with the boys our hopes and God's promises in naming their home. We introduced the name with a creative word scramble using icing and sugar cookies, and then has some bonding time together through art. Twenty-one-year old, head of the household, Sipho, looked visibly relieved when the staff of Ten Thousand Homes explained they wanted to build a sanctuary for their family. The staff members explained that a sanctuary is a place in which you can go in and not be afraid. You are protected and out of danger. Please join us in praying for this young family to experience the safety of God in their new home.

Honoring Home

2011-04-12T09:56:00.003+02:00

This month a team from New Hope Church in Wiley, TX came to Ten Thousand Homes like a whirlwind of blessings. They hosted discipleship training for the youth of Mbonisweni, and we watched in awe as every heart was transformed. The team's faith, passion and love overflowed onto the staff at Ten Thousand Homes too! They came prepared honor us in our home so we could bring Home into the communities. New Hope's team hosted an Honor Night at University Village, formally inviting each staff member to an incredible dining experience. Everyone dressed up and was served a delicious meal while being lavished with encouragement and great entertainment. At the end of the trip, many of New Hope team shared that they were equally impacted by the honor night and the joy in blessing others.

Finding the Forgotten: Creating Home

2011-04-05T07:00:00.001+02:00

Last month Ten Thousand Homes started construction on a house for four orphaned boys. The boys are 14, 14, 17 and 21 years old, and are living on their own, scared in an unsafe house that is slowly being washed away by rain. South Africa is full of child-headed households, and these boys have had to learn to survive on their own while taking care of one another. Their property is hidden in a patch of overgrown grass in Mbonisweni, and, from where they reside, it is difficult for them to find hope. The family is disconnected from community, from faith and from any sense of belonging. In the midst of their loss, they are clinging to false beliefs. They welcome us as visitors on their property as we build relationships alongside a new home.

Creative Action

Creating home goes far beyond building a house. These orphaned boys, hidden amongst the weeds in Mbonisweni, are longing to be found, to feel known and to be embraced by the security that may start with four walls, but comes in fullness with knowing Christ. Ten Thousand Homes is inviting you into this story to pray with us for these boys, for the construction of their home and for safety. This week, look for something lost: a book, a sweater or some forgotten belonging. As you seek the owner, pray for the boys in Mbonisweni, far more valuable than an object, that may not have anyone looking for them.

Healing Through Hope

2011-03-29T07:00:00.000+02:00

Linnea Bethany Coon visited recently, and was a major part of bringing hope and homes with Ten Thousand Homes.

“I gave a testimony about my leg disease and, for the first time, gave glory to God publically about all He is doing through me and how He’s healing my leg. The doors for prayer were opened. One volunteer shared openly with me about her HIV status. I learned how important it is to be obedient in what God does in my life, and how he will change and open hearts when I give Him the glory.”

Creative Action

Linnea’s obedience and openness created a path for transformation. Ten Thousand Homes has seen the healing and hope-building impact of sharing stories and building relationships in the communities we are involved in. This week, pray for more openness and more opportunity to communicate hope and love. As you pray for us, invite a friend out for coffee or ice cream and share a part of your story that you do not normally share. Watch how God uses everything you give to Him.

Building a Home in Mbonisweni!

2011-03-23T08:00:00.001+02:00

Ten Thousand Homes has set a goal of building 10 houses in 2011, as well as bringing hope and a sense of home to the houses through relationship-building.

Currently, we are working on two houses in Mbonisweni. We have been blessed to have teams join alongside us to build, invest and pray into the homes.

As we build, we know we are not just mixing cement and laying bricks. We are communicating the character of God to the families through what we are building and how we are building - He is our strength, our fortress, our protector. He knows us and cares about our needs.

We want to be a part of creating home - a place to be known, to be loved and to belong - that instills a hope beyond circumstances in every one who crosses the threshold of the houses.

Check out the latest on a house for five orphaned boys, currently living in a mud hut. Pray for these boys as we build a place for them to be safe. They are scared and looking for something to hope in! Look for more of their story in a couple of weeks!

Noticing Needs

2011-03-22T07:00:00.002+02:00

Every week a group of volunteers from Sizanani Home-Based Care go beyond their daily acts of service in their community, Dwaleni, to serve the orphaned and vulnerable children. The women recognized a need in their community and responded by partnering with Ten Thousand Homes to host a weekly feeding program. For over a year, the women have strained their backs, chopping vegetables and preparing a feast for the children without proper tables or chairs. Recently, a visitor at Ten Thousand Homes saw their need and responded by donating tables and chairs for the volunteers. We surprised the volunteers by setting up tables and chairs, and they were overjoyed by the generosity of the new gift.

Creative Action

The volunteers from Sizanani Home-Based Care experienced God’s love when a visitor noticed a need and responded. When we make time to notice others, we are communicating the ways God notices us. Just like in each one of us, every orphaned and vulnerable child in South Africa longs to know they are noticed by people and by God. This week, pray for the community volunteers to be noticed and responded to as they are tirelessly communicating God's love to the children. As you pray, ask God to show you one person in your daily life that you can take note of and make a difference to.

Happy Birthday Mbonisweni!

2011-03-15T07:00:00.000+02:00

Last week Ten Thousand Homes and the Evangelical Reformation Church in Mbonisweni celebrated a one-year partnership of feeding and creating hope and homes for the orphaned and vulnerable children in Mbonisweni. We celebrated with the children and the visiting team from New Hope Church in Wiley, Texas with a time to honor local volunteers, eat popcorn and have fun. Approximately 35 children attended the first week of the feeding program in 2010, and now we are serving over 100 children weekly. Throughout the year, Ten Thousand Homes has been delighted to watch leaders rise up and the local community volunteers take ownership in serving and discipling in their own communities. It is evident that, through relationship building and consistency, the children and volunteers at the weekly feeding in Mbonisweni are experiencing the love of Christ and discovering there is a reason to hope.

Creative Action

Celebrating milestones helps us to see the way God is moving and respond to His guidings. Take some time this week to sit down and write out a timeline of your life. Notice some of the major milestones in your story and celebrate how God has moved in them. Pray for the weekly feeding in Mbonisweni to continue to grow, nurture and disciple. We are building relationships to disciple local leaders who will make an impact in Africa’s orphan crisis.

10K on the Road

2011-03-08T12:20:00.006+02:00

March 12th marks the beginning of a 5-week fundraising tour for Ten Thousand Homes. Keri Dodge and the Kaufman family will be traveling all over the U.S. to share about what God is doing in South Africa. Our ministry needs additional funding to keep up with the growth we are seeing take place. We are confident that God has called us here to impact a generation of orphans and that He will be the provider of all our needs.

The calling God has placed upon Ten Thousand Homes to bring Hope and Homes to the orphaned and vulnerable children of Africa is a calling that extends to the entire Body of Christ. We cannot do this alone. We need YOUR help. We ask for your prayers.

Raising funds is an obvious and necessary goal for this time in the States, but it is not the bottom line. When we share at churches and within other personal relationships, our heart is to provide more than an opportunity to donate to a good cause. We want to invite people to invest in the cause incredibly close to our Father’s heart.

Our team is planning on being in the following locations during the fundraising tour: North Carolina, South Carolina, New York City, Texas, and tentatively the West Coast and Tennessee. Please contact us at LindseyKaufman@TenThousandHomes.org if you would like more information on meeting with us or having us share at your church.

A Missionary at Home

2011-02-22T07:30:00.003+02:00

Mzwandile Ndlovu is a missionary in his own community. At 21 years old, Mzwandile is dreaming about seeing his community develop into people who know Jesus and desire to be involved in God's work. We met Mzwandile while coming alongside his church in Mbonisweni. Ten Thousand Homes participates in a weekly feeding program hosted at the Evangelical Reform Church for the orphaned and vulnerable children in the community. Through working with the Ten Thousand Homes staff and taking on leadership roles in his church and amongst his peer group, Mzwandile has learned to manage the feeding, shop for food and supplies weekly, and build relationships with the volunteers and children. His active faith and passion for God's Kingdom has set big dreams for his own home in Mzwandile.

Creative Action

Ten Thousand Homes believes in discipling locally and investing in hope and homes from right where you are. Mzwandile is making an incredible impact in his own community by walking out his passion for God extravagantly amongst family and friends. Practice this in your own home this week. Prepare a dinner for someone in your family and serve them, just as Mzwandile serves his own family weekly. As you eat together, pray for Mzwandile's dreams, leadership and mission field to increase and that he continues to be poured into.

10K Tuesday

2010-11-30T07:30:00.000+02:00

Lennon Malambe

Lennon Malambe knows Ten Thousand Homes through its participation in his community, Mbonisweni. He joined staff after completing Discipleship Training School. Lennon is a local community member and staff member at Ten Thousand Homes. He has a unique role and an influential voice. As a local missionary serving his own community and hosting international visitors, Lennon shares that God has shown him the value of working as a team for Christ.

Creative Action

Pray for Lennon this week to continue to courageously use his unique voice as an ambassador for Christ, locally and internationally. Lennon is working on raising a support team to sustain him and continue the work he is called to do. This week, as God meets your needs, pray for Lennon's needs to be met. Each time you go through a checkout line at a grocery store or pay a bill, pray for Lennon to experience the Body of Christ reaching out to celebrate his irreplaceable role with Ten Thousand Homes.

10K Tuesday

2010-11-23T07:30:00.000+02:00

Making Music - Brady's Story

I was nervous on our first trip to Mbonisweni, knowing we would face communication and cultural barriers. When we got there, I realized they were the most genuine people I've ever met and we had great conversation. I met Kenneth and Meshach, who make music with the same software I do. We got to connect on a surprising level, and I got to give them tips and be a part of something they were passionate about. It was a great experience and an honor to connect with these young, local leaders and serve beside them.

Creative Action

Brady was able to connect with the volunteers by utilizing his gifts. When we make ourselves available, it's amazing what God can do. This week, pray for God to show you a gift or skill He's given you and use it to encourage or teach someone else. As you give freely, pray for ways of creative giving to flow through Ten Thousand Homes and the communities we serve.

10K Tuesday

2010-11-16T07:30:00.000+02:00

Ladies Day

Staff members, Keri Dodge and Kacy Chaffin, have been creating time to laugh, celebrate and encourage a local leader. Thuli Nkambule pours love endlessly into her community, Mbonisweni. Thuli and her husband, Sthembiso, lead the Evangelical Reform Church and shepherd the orphaned and vulnerable children they serve each week at the feeding scheme. Thuli, Keri, and Kacy look forward to Friday afternoons when they can get away from normal routine and pour into each other so they have more love to pour out.

Creative Action

This week, pray for Thuli to feel encouragement and restoration in her ministry as a spiritual mother to many. Ask God to point out a woman in your community who leads or shepherds. Take time this week to encourage and pour love into a woman who is pouring out into her community as we honor Jesus’ command to love one another as we love ourselves.

10K Tuesday

2010-11-09T07:30:00.001+02:00

Cristol and Nicki

Dwaleni is an amazing community. I was blown away by Nicki, one of the volunteers, at the feeding program. She keeps those children in line! She provides clear boundaries and expectations, but also sings with the kids and jumps in to play soccer with them. Even after a hard day of working as a home-based care volunteer and preparing their meal, Nicki’s words and actions show how much she loves those children and is dedicated to her community. The children see and feel her love and respect for them every Thursday afternoon, and I was happy to be a part of it.

Creative Action:

Cristol was moved by the way Nicki completely engaged in loving these children, despite busy or tiring circumstances. Pick one night this week to go the extra mile to love someone fully. Dedicate yourself to a community event, sing your child a lullaby or go out for a special evening with a friend. Pray for continued discipleship through Nicki in our communities as you live our Jesus’ words, “By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-11-02T07:30:00.000+02:00

DIscipleship

Ten Thousand Homes staff have been remembering together the ways Jesus discipled and the ways we've been discipled. We're recognizing the ways we can walk through daily life with one another in love and encouragement. Staff member, Carla Shaw, has been teaching staff and local leaders how to teach Christian fundamentals. Staff members John Shaw, Lennon Malambe and Stanley Mbowane are taking time together weekly to acknowledge the need to be discipling one another from home first. Staff member, Kacy Chaffin hosts sleepovers at her home on TTH base to celebrate friendships and invite community members into daily life with her.

Creative Action

Discipleship is a creative and ongoing process. Beyond intentional meetings and prayer times, we learn how to walk with Jesus by walking alongside one another. This week, as you pray for Ten Thousand Homes to learn more about God's heart for discipleship, think back to a time when someone invested in your life. As you remember how meaningful it was for someone to invite you into their life, invite someone into your daily life this week and spend some time investing in them.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have questions, comments or stories, please post on this week's discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-10-26T07:30:00.000+02:00

Alan’s Story of Hope

“It’s funny that people come here thinking that we are bringing hope. The truth for me is that we are bringing hopelessness with us. When we engage the staff, volunteers and the beautiful children, we engage Jesus. During this time of engagement, something was released in me. When I look into the eyes of the people here, I can see straight into their hearts. The moment I saw Jesus in their hearts, I felt hopelessness in me being released. This release was a life change that brought my relationship with Jesus to a whole new level.”

Creative Action:

When Alan visited Ten Thousand Homes, he was moved by the value and reality of engaging in the people around you to know Jesus more. This week, engage in a part of your society that you associate with hopelessness. As you give yourself fully by volunteering at a soup kitchen or spending time with someone in a hospital, pray for a new understanding of hope beyond circumstances.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-10-19T07:30:00.001+02:00

Creating Home at Home

A family in Mbonisweni recently lost their home to a fire. The staff members at TTH have developed a close relationship to the mother, Sharon and her 13 year-old boys, Samkelo and Bongani, and were devastated along with the family when they lost everything. A young neighbor, Colani, was walking to the clinic that day and saw the home being destroyed by the flames. He instantly felt God tell him to give the new bed his parents just bought him, the only piece of furniture in his room, to this family. He would not sleep on the bed again because he believed it no longer belonged to him. Colani joyfully gave an extremely precious possession to a family in need.

Creative Action

Colani loved others with all he has by making this huge sacrifice for Sharon's family. Just as Colani chose to bring hope and homes to his community, pray for eyes to see the needs in your own sphere of influence. Then step out in faith and meet the need God puts on your heart. You have no idea what impact a sacrificial gift of time, money, or resources could do in the life of another.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-10-12T00:30:00.000+02:00

Finding Her Place:

Melissa Clemmons came to Ten Thousand Homes to experience God’s healing and see more of Him through the orphaned and vulnerable children. After a year full of change in her own life, she knew she needed something beyond daily routine and was longing to be a part of something bigger than herself.

While she was here, Melissa fell in love with the children, volunteers and staff. Even more than that though, she heard a unique calling in her life. Melissa learned that her role in the Kingdom of God and in the orphan crisis looked different than the volunteers who prepare meals every day or the staff of Ten Thousand Homes who live in South Africa. Her role is to share her stories of how God changed her in Africa and to support the supporters. Melissa returned to Texas last week with new hope, new perspective and a confidence in her place in the Kingdom of God.

Creative Action:

Pray for Melissa this week as she transitions back into work and life in Texas. Pray that she hears God to find ways to creatively live out her new calling to care for God’s children, specifically missionaries. As you pray for Melissa this week, celebrate her new understanding and calling on her life by surprising someone with a gift. Whether it’s a new book, a cup of coffee or something that reminds you of them, relish in the joy of giving freely, just as grace was freely given to us.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-10-05T00:30:00.001+02:00

A New Creation

Mona Scholz spent the entire month of September with Ten Thousand Homes and became part of our family quickly! She adjusted to the pace of life, built relationships with several volunteers in the communities, experienced transformative moments with the children, and joined in daily life at University Village seamlessly. Mona came with no expectations and we were all amazed to see how her openness led to life-changing encounters with God. During Mona’s time here, she went beyond a mission statement or action plan. She vested in relationships, ministered to people and was ministered to intimately, in one-on-one personal relationships.

Creative Action

This week, remember what it’s like to enter into something new by breaking away from a regular routine. Take a new route to work or school, go to a different coffee shop or take a walk in a park you’ve never been to. As you explore the unknown, pray for Mona who is returning to Germany completely different than she was before. Pray for her to experience the new Home she’s found in Christ as she makes new plans and embraces change.

10K Tuesday

2010-09-28T00:30:00.000+02:00

Taco Tuesday

Every 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month, Ten Thousand Homes celebrates community by bringing staff, visiting teams and community members together. Taco Tuesdays are a time to enjoy sharing a meal together and to be intentional about living in community. All are welcomed around the table to join in a culture that chooses to walk through life with one another in every aspect, whether it’s creating a sense of Home for an orphaned or vulnerable child or eating dinner togeher. Last week, we had a blast teaching a family from Mbonisweni and teachers from Dwaleni how to “build” a taco! There is something special about exchanging and creating culture together.

Creative Action

This week, be intentional in living in community. The Body of Christ can be mobilized and make a huge impact on the orphan crisis if we are working together. Pray for Ten Thouand Homes to continue building strong relationships in the community and to make a difference in the orphan crisis in South Africa. Make a personal choice to live in community this week by inviting someone from a different walk of life over to prepare and share a meal together. Be active in building relatinoships to make a difference in your culture.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-09-21T00:30:00.000+02:00

Life Together

A few weeks ago, a team from Young Nak Celebration Church in California came to join in with Ten Thousand Homes. They came to observe, to learn and to actively participate in how life works here. The Young NAK team came as a blessing to the orphaned and vulnerable children with their energy, enthusiasm and compassion. They made a huge impact on Ten Thousand Homes and the community volunteers by coming with genuine interest in experiencing and participating in what it looks like to bring hope and homes through the daily life activities. Team member, Diane Shin stayed longer than the others and spent intentional time seeking conversations with everyone around her to know them and to understand how God is moving in the day to day moments. The Young NAK team was a joy to host and left with a greater perspective of how to find God in daily life with people.

Creative Action

Pray for the Young NAK team as they adjust back to daily life in California, that they would remember to join in with the way God is moving in theirs and others’ daily lives. This week make a plan to share a way you see God in daily life with one person each day, whether it’s through face-to-face interactions or facebook. As you are intentional in celebrating God’s movement in your everyday routine, remember that God is orchestrating a sense of hope and home in the everyday of Africa’s orphaned and vulnerable children.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-09-14T07:30:00.000+02:00

Giving Fully

Last week we said goodbye to Brittany Deniston, a staff member and cherished part of the Ten Thousand Homes family for two and a half years. Brittany came to visit Ten Thousand Homes for a short mission trip and, in obedience, decided to stay as long as God called her here. Not only did she stay, but she gave, lived and loved so uniquely and so exquisitely. Brittany is incredibly insightful, authentic and extraordinarly generous in her giving. She used her photography to transform hearts, her passions to inspire the movement and her whole heart to love fully. Ten Thousand Homes was changed by her presence.

Creative Action

This week, as we celebrate Brittany and the ways she uses her gifts and strengths fully, pray for her transition back to the States and that God provides another community for her to be loved and celebrated in. Also, pray for God to show you your gifts. Ask God to show you and cultivate a gift or strength he's put uniquely in you, and then ask Him for ways you can use your gifts for the Kingdom of God and for the orphan crisis. It may be photography or graphic design like Brittany. Maybe it's baking a cake, hosting guests, giving someone a ride, or writing. Take one action step this week. Give fully in a creative way.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-09-07T07:00:00.001+02:00

Social Justice

South Africa's civil service workers including teachers nurses, hospital staff, petrol attendants and home affairs staff, have been striking for higher wages and a housing allowance for the past several weeks. The effects of the strike are affecting every part of life here in South Africa. Pray with us this week for justice in South Africa. Pray for the civil service workers to feel appreciated and provided for, as well as those being affected by the strike indirectly. The children have had weeks without school and the safety, love and hot meal that comes with it. The sick are not being attended to, and so many others are feeling the stress of the strike.

Creative Action

God has a heart for justice and is big enough to meet the needs of all His children, no matter what side of the strike line they stand on. This week, let's acknowledge His sovereignty by acknowledging His children. Take time this week to intentionally appreciate civil service workers. As you celebrate nurses, teachers, police, government workers, etc., celebrate God's heart for restoring justice and creating peace one gesture at a time. Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-08-31T00:24:00.000+02:00

Pursuing Dreams

This week we said our goodbyes as Hayley left to go back to America to pursue her dream to become a teacher. Hayley was on staff with Ten Thousand Homes for over a year, and quickly became an irreplaceable part of our community and ministry. We miss having her here with us, but are excited to join wiht her prayerfully as she purused the dreams God has placed in her heart.

Creative Action

Pray for Hayley's transition bck to life in America and the practical steps that come with going to school and starting a new chapter in life. As you pray for Hayley's dreams, share your dreams with someone this week and invite them in to the practical steps with you.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-08-24T06:00:00.002+02:00

New Staff

Last month, we had a new member join our team here at Ten Thousand Homes. Lennon Malambe is from the local community of Mbonisweni and recently completed our Discipleship Training School. We are so excited to have him with us and know his presence will greatly add to our family here.

Creative Action:

This week, take the time with your family or a group of friends and put together a puzzle. Not only does Lennon love puzzles, but it symbolizes his life melding with ours. Pray that he will find his place quickly and his joining will be seamless.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-08-16T23:40:00.003+02:00

Prayer Garden

These past few months, we've been working on creating a prayer garden on the University Village campus. It will be a place of quiet and solitude for anyone who needs to escape with God and be refreshed. There is something precious about finding rest in the sunshine and among flowers.

Creative Action:

Go out of your way this week and find a quiet place in nature to be with God. Whether that's a park, your backyard, or going to a lake somewhere. Revel in the creation He's made for you and in your quiet time, pray that God would use this garden at U.V. for a place of safety and refuge for many.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10KTuesday

2010-08-10T00:40:00.002+02:00

Remebering the Year

We recently hit the year mark at our newest feeding scheme in the community of Dwaleni. Though we know that we are only at the beginning stages of building relationships, we are so encouraged to see the progress that has been made over the past twelve months. Not only do we feed more children in Dwaleni than at any other of our feeding schemes, but trust continues to be built with the volunteers.

Creative Action
Find a photo of yourself from a year ago and give a prayer of thanksgiving to God to celebrate the growth that has happened in your life over these past months. Lift the community of Dwaleni up in your prayers thanking God for all that He's done and will continue to do and ask for his continuing favor in the coming year.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-08-03T00:00:00.001+02:00

University Village

During the month of August, several of our staff members are making trips to the States with the specific purpose of raising funds for the University Village property. U.V. is not only a home for almost all of our staff and a resting place for short-term teams, but a refuge for orphaned and vulnerable children. A place where they can receive love and training for their future.

Creative Action

This week, make it a point to tell someone of the dream for University Village. Be a part of the movement and spread the word about what God is doing in Africa. Pray that the fundraising team will have divine appointments in the States and God will place people in their paths that have a heart for the orphan crisis.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions or stories, please post on our discussion board.

2010-07-27T10:58:00.001+02:00

Active Listening

This past month, we had three girls from California visit us, Lisa, Jackie, and Stephanie. They were an enormous help and participated in everything from a soccer camp, to our regular feeding schemes. All three have huge hearts and we were sad to see them leave.

Creative Action:

This week, intentionally seek someone out who you know has a story to share. Take them to coffee or invite them over and actively invite them to share. Pray that these three girls will find someone to talk to about their adventures and the tragedy they were introduced to on a daily basis. It's so vital to process a trip like this and we hope that the girls find people who will listen.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-07-20T08:00:00.000+02:00

This past Sunday, the whole country celebrated Nelson Mandela's 92nd Birthday. He is a man that has been an instrument of great change for a country that at one point was almost torn apart by racial tension. When we celebrate his life, we celebrate the reconciliation he inspired and continues to be a part of.

Creative Action:

This week, be an active agent of reconciliation in your own life. Take a moment and ask God who you need to make peace with and don't let the sun go down another day without resolving the conflict. It's not about keeping the peace, but more about making peace and maintaining it.

10K Tuesday

2010-07-13T08:00:00.000+02:00

Back to School

For the past five weeks, schools in South Africa have been closed for the Winter Holiday and this week the Holiday is over and kids go back to class. Uniforms are being pressed, supplies purchased, and children everywhere are groaning that the World Cup has ended and 'normal' life begins once again.

Creative Action:

This week, every time you pass by your local school, pray for the students of South Africa. Pray for inspired teachers and teachings. Pray that God will move through Africa's educational systems and revolutionize these buildings where children are supposed to learn and dream. Pray that God will stir passion for change in the hearts of these kids.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories please post on our discussion board.

Soccer Match

2010-07-08T08:00:00.000+02:00

The past few months we've been talking about having a soccer match in the community of Mbonisweni between members of Ten Thousand Homes and the youth from the Evangelical Reformed Church. This past week we finally had the big match! With the help of our South African workers, two short term volunteers from Los Angeles, and a visiting YWAM outreach team consisting of Brazilians, Europeans, and Australians, Ten Thousand Homes won the match 3 to 2!

The weather was perfect and the day was filled with lots of laughter and fun! We can't wait for the next match!

10K Tuesday

2010-07-06T08:00:00.000+02:00

A Joint Effort

This care center in Kabokweni will be such a blessing to the orphans and vulnerable children living in the community. One thing that makes it so special is that it wasn't the work of one person or organization. Churches, individuals, and teams from all over the world have sown time, money, and effort into this building and it's a powerful example of what the Body of Christ can accomplish when we're united.

Creative Action:

This week, make a deliberate effort to demonstrate unity and love in your life. Resolve unsettled conflict, sacrifice your time and resources for something worthwhile, take someone out to coffee or invite them over for dinner. Pray and ask God how you can further His kingdom by stepping out of your comfort zone.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any questions, comments, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

Staff Outing

2010-06-30T14:31:00.002+02:00

This past Saturday, our staff all got together and went to a local paint-balling course and spent all afternoon getting covered in bruises, paint, dirt, and sweat.

Friendly competition arose between the teams as each tried to 'kill' the other first whether that meant crawling through underground tunnels or sharpshooting from the wooden fort on one side of the course.

It was a great day of fun, relaxation, and laughter!

- Brittany Deniston

10K Tuesday

2010-06-29T11:33:00.000+02:00

Saying Goodbye

This past week, we said goodbye to one of our staff members, Derek Deniston, who moved back to the States after almost a year of service with Ten Thousand Homes. Derek was a valuable member of the team and had a huge heart for those around him. He was instrumental in this past Discipleship Training School and co-led the outreach to Zambia and Johannesburg. Derek is very loved and will be missed greatly by all of us.

Creative Action:

This week, every time you make your daily journey to work or school, pray for Derek. Pray that God speaks to him about this next season in life. Pray for direction as he makes decisions about his future. Pray for blessings as he takes this next leap of faith and for people to surround him with blessings and encouragement.

10K Tuesday: Fifa World Cup 2010

2010-06-22T15:37:00.002+02:00

Hosting the World Cup is a great honor and the whole of South Africa has been anticipating this event for years with bated breath and untold excitement. But large events like this always have a darker side and the World Cup is no exception. Sex trafficking is a huge concern and vulnerable women and children are at risk every day of the competition.

Creative Action:

This week, take time to play a game/sing a song/read a book with a child as your creative prayer. With sex trafficking the enemy's goal is not just to harm the physical, but to steal and destroy joy and innocence. Take a step in the opposite direction and laugh with the ones you love.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-06-15T12:46:00.002+02:00

Youth Day

Youth Day [June 16th] in South Africa is a Holiday that commemorates the start of the Soweto Riots of 1976 that were initially sparked by a government edict that all instruction in black schools would be held in Africaans. The Holiday honors Hector Pieterson, a child that was shot to death by police during the riots. His death shocked the world and brought about the beginning of the end of the Apartheid regime. Youth Day is a chance to lift up and encourage the children of the nation toward a better and brighter future. It's a day where children are given a voice and told that they can make a difference no matter their age.

Creative Action:

This week, take the opportunity to encourage those children and young adults around you. Tell them that their voice matters and that they are the future of their nation. Tell them that they can make a difference and not to wait for those around them to stand up for what they know is right. Take a moment and pray with them about their future and their passions and remember that it took the boldness of a child to bring about equality and peace in South Africa.

Thank you so much for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-05-18T17:26:00.002+02:00

Keys to a New Home

Not too long ago and with the help of many people, Ten Thousand Homes was able to purchase a house that had been nearly destroyed by violent riots last year in the community of Mbonisweni [read more]. We bought the house intending to fix it up for two orphaned, young boys Themba and Sunnyboy. It took time and lots of hard work, but the repairs have been completed and the boys have finally moved in!

Creative Action:

This week, every time you take your keys out to unlock your house, pray for these two boys and their new home. Pray for safety and security and that this house would truly become a place of belonging and hope.

Thank you for participating in 10K Tuesday! We love to hear from you so take a moment and post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-05-11T10:22:00.002+02:00

Outreach to Johannesburg

The DTS Outreach has almost reached it's final stage. On Thursday, they fly from Lusaka, Zambia into Johannesburg where they will partner with The Joseph Project for a few weeks before heading back here to White River for their debrief week. We are so excited for them to come home so we can hear their stories!

Creative Action:

This week, pray for unity amongst the team. As Outreach draws to a close, it's easy for attitudes to suffer and for conflict to arise. Step in the opposite spirit in your personal life. Pray and ask God to bring a person to mind that you may have unresolved conflict with and go have a conversation with them. The Father calls us to unity with one another and often it's the hardest thing to maintain.

Thank you participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! We love to hear from you so please post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-05-04T10:51:00.001+02:00

Tea in Dwaleni

Every other Wednesday, a few of our staff members get together for tea with the volunteers of the feeding scheme in the local community of Dwaleni. This was originally created as a time to discuss how the work was going with the children, but has now evolved into a time of sharing and fun with one another. They do everything from crafts and games to sharing their favorite Bible verses. It's a time of fellowship and community and growing friendships.

Creative Action:

This week, take a friend out to your favorite coffee shop or restaurant and share what's going on in the community of Dwaleni. Take a few minutes to pray for these volunteers together. Pray that God would continue to develop these relationships and create a new openness in this community.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! We love to hear from you so take a moment and post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-04-27T10:48:00.004+02:00

This past week some of the staff was able to go out and finish David house. His neighbors have been a big help in building his house (supplying water, tools, ect). His neighbors are very happy that he is coming back to the community. We recently have found out that he has been scared to live in the house (because of the break-in rate being so high). But we know it’s not the four walls we have built buts it’s the community around David’s house that is going to keep him safe, and loved.

Creative Action:
Today when you have some down time, draw a big picture of a house, inside the house write words that make it a hom. Each day this week pray for the children of Africa and that they will be able to find those words/actions in their home. Thank you for participating in this weeks 10K Tuesday. If you have any questins,comments, or stories please post on our bulletin board

10K Tuesday: The Teka Takho Drop In Center

2010-04-20T09:01:00.004+02:00

With Windows and doors put on the Teka Takho Drop in Center things are moving along pretty fast. Just last week we had someone donate the roof to help finish the project. We have a few more things left before the Care Center will be up and running. Creative Action:

This week tie a small bow onto your dinner chair, every time you see the bow pray for the feeding programs, volunteers, and children that will be using the Care Center. Thanks you so much for participating in this weeks 10K Tuesday. If you have any questions, comments, or stories, please post on our bulletin board.

2010-04-14T02:52:00.001+02:00

A couple of weeks ago we talked about outreach prep for

our DTS students, well outreach has come and they

leave today! Our students are on their way to Zambia for four weeks, and then will be in

Johannesburg for three weeks. Not only our students traveling, but we also have several staff that have been traveling to

different parts of Africa, and some are either in America or

will soon be in America in the next couple of weeks. The base will empty quickly.

Creative action:

With all the students and some of the staff traveling, every time you see or hear an airplane send up a little prayer for the bus drivers, pilots, anyone that they might come in contact with while they are on the road.

Thank you so much for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday. If you have any questions, comments, or stories, please post on our discussion board

Sacrificial Giving

2010-04-06T19:11:00.004+02:00

Last week, a local volunteer at our Kabokweni Care Center was seen counting her money. When asked why, the volunteer replied that she had seen that one of the orphaned children needed new school clothes and she wanted to help. This volunteer is a single mother with several children of her own and she struggles everyday to put food on her table,but despite all of her own trials she gave from her heart even though it must have hurt.

Creative Action:

This is a challenge for all of us this week. Find a way to give even when it hurts. Whether that means sacrificing your money, time, or emotions, find your own way to give sacrificially, which means ESPECIALLY when it hurts.

Thank you so much for your participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post and questions, comments, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday: Meet David

2010-03-30T15:09:00.002+02:00

A little less then a month ago we starting building a home for

a boy name David. David lives in a local community called

Masoyi. David lost both of his parents and was staying alone in his one room shack, he is

currently living with a neighbor. Since he is living with his neighbor he is also selling fruit

for her at a street stand. A couple of weeks ago some of

the staff were able to meet David and learn a little more

about him. David loves to play football (soccer), he is in grade 10, and his favorite subject in

school is English. When he has free time he likes to hang

out with his friends and he has big dreams for his future.

Creative Action:

This week, take a small piece of paper cut it into a circle and draw it into a soccer ball. With that soccer ball put it in your wallet and every time you see it send a little prayer up for David, and for the community of Masoyi.

Thank you so much for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday. If you have any questions, comments, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-03-23T12:00:00.000+02:00

Preparing for Outreach

These last few months, time has flown by and now our Discipleship Training School is just three weeks away from leaving for their two-month outreach. With a 48hr bus ride to Zambia looming in the distance, the students are expressing both excitement and nervousness.

Creative Action:

This week, carry a small stone around with you in your pocket and every time you feel the weight, pray for these students. Pray that all their funds would come in on time, pray that God would prepare their hearts for what He has for them, and pray for the unity of the team as they work together to bring new life to the people they go to serve.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any questions, comments, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday: What's in a name?

2010-03-16T18:40:00.002+02:00

What's the one thing we hear in the middle of a crowded city street? For almost every

one, it's our own name. It's more than just important. It's

a big part of our identity. It represents that we are important and cherished.

At the Care Center in Kabokweni there is a shelf with the names

of the children who come every week. These names all represent the story of an

orphan or vulnerable child who has found a place to belong. It may only be a shelf, but it

means that a child has found a home.

Creative Action:

This week, look at our website and say a prayer for one of the faces you see. Commit to pray for that child every day this week by drawing a heart on your calender at home or at work.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-03-09T12:00:00.000+02:00

Place of Belonging

This Wednesday is the official kickoff of a new feeding scheme in the community of Embonisweni! The food has been purchased, games are planned, and the whole team is excited to see this day come together. We've been involved in this community for quite some time now and it's amazing to see plans moving along and friendships progressing.

Creative Action:

This week, tie a length of yarn, ribbon, or string of some sort around your wrist to remind yourself to pray for the community of Embonisweni. Pray for regular funds to come in for the feeding scheme and pray for willing hearts and hands to come alongside us as we actively seek to create a place of belonging for these orphaned and vulnerable children.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-03-02T12:00:00.000+02:00

Continued Progress

As we wrote a few weeks ago, work continues on the care center in Kabokweni. Just last week the footings were poured and bricks are being laid as the foundation is built. Excitement is building for this place that will represent home and hope for so many.

Creative Action:

Write 'Kabokweni Care Center' in bold letters on your weekly calender. As you go about your day, remember to intercede for the practical side of building the center, finances, labor, etc. Ask that God would lavishly give His daily 'manna' in preparation for this home.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please write any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board. We love to hear from you!

10K Tuesday

2010-02-16T12:00:00.000+02:00

A New Home

A few weeks ago, a visiting YWAM Orlando team completed a new home in Kabokweni for a grandmother looking after seven young children all on her own. The team not only worked tirelessly building the physical structure, but poured their hearts into developing relationships with the family desperately in need of compassion [to find out more click here].

Creative Action:

As you go about your daily household chores this week [mopping, sweeping, laundry, dishes, etc], intercede for this special family and their new house. Pray that God will continue to meet their physical needs and that the children would grow strong in the Lord. Pray that their house would not just be a safe place to eat and sleep, but a true home filled with laughter and joy.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any questions, comments, or stories please post on our discussion board .

10K Tuesday

2010-02-09T12:30:00.000+02:00

New Ventures

Eunice Ngwenya joined the TTH team last year after completing her Discipleship Training School. During her outreach to Uganda, she learned how to handcraft beautiful paper necklaces and is now in the process of carving out an almost exclusive chunk of the local market here in South Africa. Three shops have already approached her wanting to sell her necklaces and bracelets and Eunice has pulled together the women around her to help meet the demand. Many of these women are in dire need of an income and Eunice is using this as a unique opportunity to teach both practical and business skills.

Creative Action:

Take a dollar bill [real or fake] and carry it around with you all week either in a pocket or a purse. Every time you see it, remind yourself to pray for Eunice and her new venture. Pray for favor with the local businesses and financial blessings to come in fantastic ways!

Thank you so much for participating in 10K Tuesday! If you have any questions, comments, or stories please visit our discussion board .

10K Tuesday

2010-02-02T12:00:00.000+02:00

To Rest and Renew

With visiting teams, Discipleship Training Schools, and ongoing construction projects, here in White River, South Africa down time is a valuable commodity. We all go through seasons of busyness and stress in our lives, and many of us cope by sleeping, zoning out in front of the television, or reading a book. It's easy to distract ourselves and think we are resting.

But while the distraction method feels good, rarely is it truly restful. We all find life and rest in different ways and discovering how God created us to receive that renewal is a lifetime journey.

Creative Action:

Take a whiteboard marker/lipstick/washable crayon/eyeliner and write the word 'REST' in big bold letters on your bathroom mirror. Every time you wash your hands or brush your teeth, remind yourself to pray for true rest not only for the team here in SA, but for your family and yourself.

Don't you know He enjoys giving rest to those He loves?
Psalm 127:2

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any comments, questions, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-01-26T12:00:00.000+02:00

Building a Foundation

After almost a year of prep and planning, we've finally broken ground for the new Care Center in the community of Kabokweni! Our hope and dream is that this center will be a place of family and home for many local orphaned and vulnerable children. A home where they can come for food, tutoring, clothing, nurturing, and love.

Creative Action:

Take one meal a day this week and instead of using a machine take the time to hand wash all of your dishes. Use that extra time to intercede for the new Care Center. Pray that funds and supplies will pour in and building plans will continue without interference. Pray that God will bring willing hands and hearts together to see this home built.

Thank you for your participation in this week's 10K Tuesday! We love to hear from you so if you have any questions, comments, or stories, please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-01-19T13:34:00.003+02:00

United in Hope

A few weeks ago during the prayer time at our first staff meeting of the year, we were praying for the coming year, for relationships, and community. We prayed that our work would flow out of our relationships with God and each other.

We have entered into a time of intense busyness with our Discipleship Training School starting, visiting teams, and various ongoing construction projects. It would be easy to let the tasks overwhelm us and allow the relationships to suffer.

Creative Action:

Take the verse below and meditate on it. Please intercede for our team during this time. We know that without unity and great love for one another nothing we do will last. Pray against the enemy’s machinations as he is always seeking to destroy what God binds together.

“Let me give you a new command: Love one another. In the same way I loved you, you love one another. This is how everyone will recognize that you are my disciples- when they see the love you have for one another.”

John 13:34-35

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! If you have any questions, comments, or stories please post on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-01-12T12:00:00.000+02:00

Meet Pinkie

Not too long ago, we shared Pinkie's story and told you about her struggles and triumphs as an orphan caring for her younger sister. We are so excited to announce that Pinkie is now one of our students in our Discipleship Training School starting next week! The building up and training of orphans is the heart of our ministry and we are looking forward to investing in Pinkie's life.

Creative Action:

Take a pink slip of paper with Pinkie's name written in bold letters and tape it in your car, on your mirror, fridge, or computer. Every time you see it, remind yourself to pray for Pinkie and the journey the Lord is taking her on. Pray that she would come to know God in a new way and be an encouragement to her community.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10KTuesday! If you have any questions, comments, or stories please share with us on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2010-01-07T09:07:00.003+02:00

New Year’s Resolution

When making a New Year’s resolution list, we tend to put things like lose weight, stop smoking, save money, or even give more money charity. These are goals that are measurable, tangible. We look over the last year and resolve to live life better this time around.

What if this year we set a goal to love each other better, to truly care for the person next to us or even half a world away. What if this year, you impact just one African child? What if each of us decided to impact just one? What kind of difference would we make in our world?

Creative Action:

This week, ask yourself “Who is my neighbor”? Find a way to impact just one orphan or vulnerable child this year – a child you may never meet. Be creative and deliberate in your kindness – and don’t be afraid to dream big! Resolve this year to make a difference in the life of ONE African child.

Thank you so much for your participation! Please post any comments, stories, or questions you may have on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2009-12-08T15:00:00.000+02:00

Merry Christmas

In South Africa, December is a month for relaxation and holiday. Shops and restaurants close down and the streets empty as people take a break for the year. In the Western world, the opposite seems to be true. People are so busy attending parties, buying gifts, and working extra hard during the holiday rush that it seems impossible to stop and savor what’s truly important this time of year.

Creative Action:

During this Holiday season, be deliberate and take the time to stop and breathe. Rest with your family and be sure to tell them they are loved and valued. During your prayer times, renew your relationship with God and remember those in need. Let’s start the New Year with truly refreshed hearts and minds!

This is our last 10K Tuesday for the year 2009! We will be starting back up in the beginning of January. Please post any questions, comments, and stories on our discussion board. We love to hear from you!

10K Tuesday

2009-12-01T15:00:00.000+02:00

World AIDS Day

December 1^st is the internationally recognized, World’s AIDS Day. We’ve all seen and heard the HIV/AIDS statistics for Africa. Whether it’s from a missionary standing at the pulpit in your church, on the news, or read on the Internet the number of adults and children dying is hardly a secret. What a lot of people don’t know is that with the proper medication, diet, and exercise HIV can be controlled for a long time and a person can live a long, healthy life. Children who are born with HIV have a harder time, but it is possible.

Creative Action:

Pin an AIDS Ribbon to your jacket everyday this week, and gather people to pray with you for AIDS education and health in South Africa. Pray that the fear of stigma would not keep people away from being tested or taking their medications. Pray for the orphans left behind and/or infected from their parents.

Thank you for participating in this week’s 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

10K Tuesday

2009-11-24T15:00:00.002+02:00

Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving may be a strictly American tradition, but the principles can be celebrated worldwide. The idea is to offer praise and thanks to God for His blessings. It’s a time to join together as a family and remember all that we have been given and how much we are loved and adored for who we are.

Creative Action:

This week, be deliberate in including others in your family circle. Not everyone is fortunate enough to have a family, but we all long to feel that connection and love. Whether it’s a coworker or a college student from your church, be intentional and share your blessings with others. Sharing a meal is one of the best ways to build relationship, so step outside your bubble and be a blessing to those around you!

Thank you for participating in this week’s 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

Staff Spotlight

2009-11-19T14:14:00.001+02:00

Michael and Lindsay Kaufman are one of the founding couples of Ten Thousand Homes. The first to make the move from the States in 2007, they've lived in White River ever since. Both from the Southern part of America, they met and married in Youth With A Mission years ago and have hearts to see transformation in Africa. With their beautiful daughter Isabelle and a son on the way, they are an amazing and vital part of the Ten Thousand Homes team.

To find out more about the Kaufmans, visit their blog.

10K Tuesday

2009-11-17T15:00:00.001+02:00

Young Mothers

It’s common in Africa for young, unmarried women to become pregnant. In fact it’s fairly unusual for an African woman to reach the age of twenty-five without giving birth to a child or two despite the negative connotations associated with pregnancy outside of wedlock. These past few months, we’ve received news that several of the young girls we work with at the care centers are pregnant.

Creative Action:

This week, as you sit down to eat dinner with your families pray for blessings for these young, soon-to-be mothers and their unborn children. Pray for health and that their communities would surround them and help care for their children. Pray that the fathers would take active roles in their children’s lives. Pray that God would give us wisdom in handling and mentoring these girls.

Thank you for participating in this week’s 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any comments, questions, or stories on our discussion board.

Compassion DTS: January 2010

2009-11-12T12:00:00.000+02:00

We are so excited to officially announce next year's Discipleship Training School! Starting January 17th and ending June 6th, the first three months of the school called the 'Lecture Phase' consists of visiting teachers, local community outreaches, and time spent bonding and growing with your fellow students and staff members. The last two months are a time to put into practice all that you've learned and the students are sent on an intense outreach.

DTS Outreach 2009 at the Source of the Nile, Uganda

Why Compassion? Our DTS focuses on the care of orphaned and vulnerable children, especially those affected by HIV/AIDS. We believe it's an issue close to God's heart and we devote much of our ministry time to children.

As time flies by and January swiftly approaches, we are busy accepting student applications, appointing staff positions, lining up guest speakers, setting up the classrooms and getting dorms ready along with many other details.

If you'd want to find out more about the Discipleship Training School or would like to fill out an application, please visit www.compassiondts.com

10K Tuesday

2009-11-10T15:00:00.000+02:00

The Innocent

AIDS is still a very sensitive topic in most cultures today. You must have done something wrong or shameful to become infected. Even in Africa, the stigma associated with the disease keeps people from being tested and taking their medications. That may have been true ten or twenty years ago, but the truth today is that the ones most affected by HIV/AIDS are the children who never had a choice. These kids have struggled and lived under a burden of shame since their birth, because their parents or their grandparents made a bad decision.

Creative Action:

This week, look for one person you can tell about the HIV/AIDS crisis in Africa, whether it’s someone you meet in the line at the local coffee shop, a friend, family member, or coworker. Tell someone that AIDS is no longer about people making bad decisions, but about the innocent children that are dying with no family or support system. Take some time and pray that the world’s outlook and response to those infected with HIV/AIDS would change.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any questions, comments, or stories on our discussion board.

Orphan Sunday

2009-11-05T15:00:00.000+02:00

On November 8, 2009, churches, musicians, and christian organizations all over the world will join together to raise awareness for the orphaned and vulnerable children of the nations. Take the opportunity to tell your community, small group, and church to take an active step in fulfilling God's call for the orphans.

To learn more about Orphan Sunday, visit their website.

10K Tuesday

2009-11-03T15:00:00.000+02:00

Creative Exploration

At Ten Thousand Homes, we are trying to create a movement that emphasizes the importance of creativity. God is a creative being and as we are all formed in His image, we believe that means we are creative as well. By including all sorts of different art forms onto our campus and into our prayer and worship times and sending out creative prayer actions in these 10K Tuesdays, we believe we are exercising a God-given weapon in spiritual warfare.

Creative Action:

Spend a few hours this week interceding for the children of Africa using your own unique creative outlet. If this is a new concept for you, or you’ve never considered yourself creative, we challenge you to think outside your box when it comes to art. Explore your creative side whatever it looks like, whether it’s painting, writing, knitting, blogging, photography, scrapbooking, creating music, interior design, cooking, or being innovative in administration and business. There is power in using our gifts in prayer.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any stories, comments, or questions you may have on our discussion board.

Voice for the Voiceless

2009-10-29T15:00:00.004+02:00

A few weeks ago, Susi and Matt visited us from an organization called Voice for the Voiceless. Both photographers, they are part of a movement that is dedicated to sharing the stories of those without a voice in the world. It was amazing to have them visit even for such a short time and they were able to stay in two different communities that we work with, Kabokweni and Mbonisweni.

To learn more about, Voice for the Voiceless, visit their website.

10K Tuesday

2009-10-27T15:00:00.000+02:00

Praying for Nutrition

The orphans that we work with generally only receive one meal a day, usually in the early afternoon. A typical meal is a small amount of stew and a large portion of pap (pronounced ‘pop’), a substance made from corn with the texture somewhere between mashed potatoes and cream of wheat. Pap has almost no nutritional value, but because it’s cheap and fills your stomach it’s a staple in most African’s diet.

Creative Action:

Try eating the same meal for lunch everyday this week. While you eat, pray for the orphans who lack the proper nutrition to help sustain their bodies and fight off illnesses and bacteria. Pray for the local schools, that they would see the desperate need to keep their children well fed. Pray for a movement in the communities, that the adults would see the needs of these vulnerable children and take action.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any stories, comments, or questions you may have on our discussion board.

Foundations of Community Development School

2009-10-22T15:00:00.001+02:00

For the past two months, we had the honor of hosting a team of four from the Foundations of Community Development School based out of YWAM Montana. After completing the twelve-week lecture phase, they made their way to South Africa to put to practice some of what they learned.

The team was made of two guys and two girls, one from Zimbabwe, one from Germany, and two from North America. Though culturally diverse, they worked well as a team and participated in many of our community projects. They had a passion for gardening and were able to share what they had learned during a seminar they held in the community of Mbonisweni. They also had the chance to make their way down south to the Cape and volunteered at an international YWAM conference that took place a few weeks ago.

Thank you Montana team for being faithful to God's calling and for all your hard work these past two months!

10K Tuesday

2009-10-19T13:07:00.004+02:00

Action not Indifference

We’ve all watched the television and seen the destruction and horror HIV/AIDS is causing all over the World. People have a variety of reactions when hearing the stats and seeing the pictures. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, hopeless, indifferent, or judgmental. We believe that no matter the cause, God is stirring us all toward passion, not pity. Action, not indifference. Grace, not judgment. So what does that mean for us? Do we quit our jobs, pack our bags, and move to Africa? Not all of us are called to move across an ocean, but if action is required what does that look like?

Creative Action:

Take a moment this week and ask God what your response to the HIV/AIDS crisis might look like. It may be holding a prayer meeting, volunteering at an AIDS clinic, sending money, or simply wearing an AIDS ribbon and spreading the word. No one can tell you what your response should look like, but there is a whole generation of orphans desperate for any response at all.

Pure and lasting religion in the sight of God our Father

means that we must care for orphans and widows in their troubles,

and refuse to let the world corrupt us.

James 1:27

Thank you for participating in this week's 10k Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any questions, comments, or stories on our discussion board.

Stanley Mbowane

2009-10-15T15:00:00.001+02:00

Stanley has a special place in my heart, because he attended the Discipleship Training School that I led earlier this year. He comes from a child headed household and his story is quite heartbreaking, but God is so good, isn't He?! This might get a little long, but, trust me, you are going to want to keep reading.

I asked Stanley to tell me in his words the story of his family life and what it was like growing up in a child headed household. I felt like I was reading a book as I read his heart on paper.

"I lost my mother when I was 6 months old. I never knew her but I wish I had. I was raised by my aunt in a village called Marite. I stayed with her for 5 years. My father would come and visit me there. I didn't even know that I had brothers.

Then, in 1990 I moved to another village called Masoyi where I met my brothers for the first time. We spoke different languages so that was difficult at first. My father took another wife but my stepmom did not like me. I was getting one meal a day. My father didn't support me, with clothes, food, school fees, etc. He didn't do anything for my brothers, but my grandmother was the mercy one who cared for us. She paid our school fees, and bought us food and clothes with the hope that my brothers and I would get a good education and have a good life.

My father would spend more than 3 months at a time in Johannesburg without coming home. He would send money, but we never saw the use of the money at home, because we weren't getting food. Our stepmom was buying food and hiding it in her bedroom. So when she wasn't around, we would go in and take the food and whatever we found useful. She would tell my father and he would beat us when he came home. We would sleep on the floor with one blanket. Life wasn't easy, but we got used to it and faced what we had.

In 2002, my father died and our stepmom ran away. We tried to call her, but she never answered her phone. We never saw her again. So we became a child headed household. Life became even harder. My grandmother could only support us R100 a month (equivalent of $10) to pay for food, clothes, and electricity."

How did you come to know Jesus?

"My aunt encouraged us to speak with a social worker. We met an organization called Masoyi Home Based Care which brought us lots of hope. They provided us with food parcels, school uniforms, and school fees. It was also in my heart to help people because of how I grew up. I started to get involved with the youth program. I had a passion to work with youth and a great time. I worked there for 4 years as a volunteer. Every Thursday, I met with a man to talk about Jesus. I realized there was a Father who loves me so much. And I gave my life to Jesus.

I saw God provide for me in so many ways, but I still didn't really understand what it meant to be a Christian. I struggled with my spiritual life for 3 years. Then I told my friend that I wanted to go to a missionary school."

Why did you want to do the training school and how has God impacted you through it?

"I met some of the staff from Ten Thousand Homes and in 2008, they invited me to attend the Discipleship Training School. I prayed about it and felt like God said I should do it. They said there was space available, so in January I came.

I had a big change in my life that I can't explain. I am not the same Stanley that I used to be. I am so glad that I did the school. I don't live the same life that I used to live. I have a new home where there are people who really care about me. Not just by words, but also with their actions. I am really enjoying what I am doing. If they said I could do the school a second time, I would! I have gotten to know God more."

Since the training school finished at the end of May this year, Stanley has become a valuable part of our staff and we are so glad to have him among us!

By Jen Price

10K Tuesday

2009-10-13T15:00:00.002+02:00

Restoration of Innocence

Children often have an easier time believing in the fantastic. Whether that's Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, or a child's blind faith in God. As we grow older, our minds adapt to the world's philosophies and we have a harder time trusting in the things we can't see. The more we witness the degradation of the world around us, the harder it becomes to believe in something so inherently good.

But what about the ones that grow up without the childhood that allows them the luxury of believing in the fantastic? How much harder is it to trust God when everyday of your life you've struggled for food, shelter,and safety? How much more difficult is it to relate to a God of goodness, mercy, love, and justice when you've never experienced it in your own life? When you've lost the innocence required to take that leap of faith?

Creative Action:

Every night this week, as you lay your head down to sleep and snuggle underneath your covers, pray for the orphans of this world to feel God's love wrapping around them in a fantastic, supernatural way. Pray for a renewal of their childhood, that God would protect their ability to dream and believe in the things unseen.

Welcome Home

2009-10-08T17:58:00.002+02:00

Over the past few weeks here, we have been working on building a house in Kabokweni for two girls whose father left and mother is dying of HIV/AIDS. With the help of our staff and visiting teams, we were able to finish this house in just over a month. These young girls who are 15 and 12 years of age, are basically left fending for themselves, while taking care of their sick mother. When we met them and saw the shack they were living in, we felt God’s calling to act upon it.

We at Ten Thousand Homes believe in more than just building the physical structure of a house but creating a home for these children, a place of safety, security, and comfort. These girls have that once again, when we welcomed them into their new house on Tuesday with singing, prayers and cake!

A big thank you to all those who had a hand in creating a home for this family!

Hayley Nicholls

Photos by Rae Dunn

Ten Thousand Homes TOUR!!!

2009-10-07T20:26:00.006+02:00

Hello Friends,
That’s right. We are setting off for the month of November! David Henry and Nathan Pearce are hitting the road November 1st.
The goal is simple and two-fold:
1. Tell the story of Africa's beautiful orphan and vulnerable children
2. Help you and your tribe of friends to Engage with this movement of HOPE and HOMES

We'll be going through Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, the south, and a few surprise appearances elsewhere. Stay tuned for a list of specific dates and locations. We'll also still have open dates in some places, so if you're interested in having us come through email: davidhenry@tenthousandhomes.org

We'll be posting videos, photos, tweets, so you can follow our adventure, so keep checking back for updates and join our facebook and twitter pages.

This is your chance to come hear about how you can be on the front lines of ending the Orphan Crisis. We have a lot of work to do but with all of you we can achieve what needs to be done to build HOPE and create HOMES. Come see us, say hello, and we will dream and dare together to make this happen.

With Hope,
The Ten Thousand Homes Team
David Henry

10K Tuesday

2009-10-06T11:06:00.003+02:00

The One You Know

When faced with a crisis as large as the HIV/AIDS pandemic, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer number of people affected. You hear of millions of children left orphaned and it’s as if a part of your brain shuts down. You feel compassion, but what can you do in the face of so many? One way to make a difference is to focus on the stories you know. Instead of praying for millions, pray for the one you know.

Creative Action:

Take a small notebook and attach a picture of one of the following children to the front. Read their stories and carry around their notebook with you all week recording your prayers and any words you may receive.

Lebo, Bheki, Pinkie, Busisiwe, Lifalakhe, Sweetness

If you feel led to, mail the notebook to us and we’ll make sure it gets to the right child.

P.O. Box 4450

White River, Mpumalanga, 1240

South Africa

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any stories, comments, or questions you may have on our discussion board.

University of the Nations Workshop

2009-10-01T15:30:00.000+02:00

A few weeks ago, a bunch of us from Ten Thousand Homes journeyed down to the southern Cape of South Africa to participate in a U of N conference that was taking place simultaneously in four locations around the globe - Kiev, Ukraine; Lausanne, Switzerland; Cairo, Egypt; and Cape Town, South Africa. It was a great opportunity to delve deeper in relationship with fellow YWAMers, and to see what God is doing all over the world.

We had an hour and a half one afternoon to hold a workshop, titled What is HOME? Engaging the orphan crisis. We didn’t know how many people to expect, but to our surprise the room was packed and the attendants eager and ready to participate.

We’ve been making a push lately to engage in creative prayer, so we decided to end the session with a time of prayer and had a large canvas with a simple structure of a home. Everyone was invited to write words, scriptures, or paint pictures to depict what made up the principles and values of a home.

It was a beautiful and inspiring thing to watch others get excited about the future and wellbeing of Africa’s children!

10KTuesday

2009-09-29T14:45:00.001+02:00

In Their Shoes

Footwear is one of those things that most of us have and we don't even think about. Not only do we have shoes, but we have multiple pairs and some of us have ones for every conceivable occasion. Among Africans, shoes are a sign of prosperity and wealth, even if the shoes are full of holes and do nothing to protect your feet from the elements. Needless to say, if an orphan has a pair of shoes, they are rarely adequate. This lack of proper footwear is not only damaging for the obvious reasons, but can keep them from going to school for not meeting the uniform requirements. So much can rest on a simple pair of shoes.

Creative Action:

This week, we challenge you to wear only one pair of shoes,no matter the weather, no matter the possible fashion disaster. Every morning as you slide your feet into your shoes, think of the orphans who go without.Pray for more than the blessing of footwear, pray for the government schools to become more lenient with their shoe policy or at least provide shoes for the children who have none. Pray for a whole nation who judges an individual, not on their character, but by their appearance.

Thank you for participating in this week's 10K Tuesday! Please take a moment and post any stories, comments, or questions you may have on our discussion board.

Ten Thousand Homes

Big Announcement at TTH!

A Message from the Heart

Ending the Orphan Crisis as a Family

Jillian's Story

Seeing Double: Twins Responding to Hope and Homes

Speaking Siyabonga's Language

Taking Things Into Our Own Hands

67 Minutes to Make a Difference

Leaving Footprints

Digging up the First Fruits

One Boy's Story

Love Transforming Every Day

Capturing Home from a New Angle

Building Hope at Home

A first-hand glimpse at Hope and Home

Seeing Hope and Homes By Candlelight

Prayers Changing Plans

The Lord's Prayer

Believing WITH and FOR the Big and Small

Meet Ruth

Home in the Handiwork

Everyday Worship

Creative Action

Announcing: A New Home!

Welcome Home!

Creative Action

Calling All Disciples!

Engaging In More Than A Moment

Courtney Connor visited Ten Thousand Homes and came committed to engaging God, Ten Thousand Homes and the children in the communities fully.

Uvikelekile Has Been Proclaimed!

Honoring Home

Finding the Forgotten: Creating Home

Healing Through Hope

Building a Home in Mbonisweni!

Noticing Needs

Happy Birthday Mbonisweni!

10K on the Road

A Missionary at Home

10K Tuesday

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10K Tuesday

Creative Action:This week, be an active agent of reconciliation in your own life. Take a moment and ask God who you need to make peace with and don't let the sun go down another day without resolving the conflict. It's not about keeping the peace, but more about making peace and maintaining it.

10K Tuesday

Soccer Match

10K Tuesday

Staff Outing

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday: Fifa World Cup 2010

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday: The Teka Takho Drop In Center

Sacrificial Giving

10K Tuesday: Meet David

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday: What's in a name?

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

10K Tuesday

Creative Action:

This week, be an active agent of reconciliation in your own life. Take a moment and ask God who you need to make peace with and don't let the sun go down another day without resolving the conflict. It's not about keeping the peace, but more about making peace and maintaining it.