In the rugged, dusty terrain of the Ecuadorian mountains, where the echoes of forgotten stories lingered in the air, Luis and David often felt overlooked by the world. These kids grew up in the shadows, wondering where their father was and, most importantly, why he left them. Their questions were met with silence. “Who am I? Where did I come from?” These were mysteries, like lost keys to locked doors.
Life was a tangled web, with no clear path out. Their mother, Michelle, strong yet broken, did what she could, but hope was a rare commodity she could not afford in their world. Each day mirrored the last; she would sell her love to another man. Among them, one whose face or name she couldn’t recall, was Luis’s father. A couple of years later, repeating the same cycle, David was born. Despite the love she had for them, her children’s faces served as constant reminders of the challenging situations they’d faced.
Like Michelle, other women in her community turned to prostitution to support their families—a never-ending, relentless cycle and a constant struggle to survive. Michelle hadn’t finished school because her parents couldn’t afford it, so she had to work from a very young age.
Every year, your generous gifts enable us to reach thousands of children in Ecuador with the hope and love of Jesus during Christmas. Thanks to your generosity, we can bless more families and communities. This year, Michelle’s community was brightened by the most important gift of all: Jesus. Project M:25 partnered with a local ministry in Michelle’s community to bring the transformative love and hope of Jesus to the people. This partnership promised change and renewal, and a glimmer of hope began to emerge.
Michelle arrived with Luis and David at the celebration. It wasn’t easy, as they faced criticism from the community due to their circumstances. However, for Luis and David, this celebration offered a glimpse of a world where dreams could flourish, and where they felt seen, valued, and loved. While the children enjoyed the festivities, Michelle discovered the story of how Jesus came into a world that needed Him, rejected Him, and even sought to harm Him. It resonated with her, reminding her that love conquers all difficulties.
Clothing, toys, candy, food supplies, and more were part of the gifts Michelle, Luis, and David received. These gifts were more than material items; they were symbols of recognition and care. The impact will extend further, as the Project M:25 team plans to return in a few weeks to train local church volunteers on how to support and love those facing difficulties, helping them heal from past wounds. Please keep us in your prayers as we strive to be the hands and feet of God in this world.
Your contributions made it possible to share the joy of the season, offering not only gifts and festivities but also a sense of belonging and hope for a brighter future. Together, we have illuminated the mountains with the spirit of Christmas, writing a new chapter filled with hope, love, and endless possibilities.