Even though I have visited Rwanda many times before, reminders of the genocide still strike me everywhere I look. The brutality of those 100 days in 1994 when over 1 million people were butchered is still fresh in the minds of every Rwandan. 

I had the privilege of meeting with the First Lady of Rwanda Mrs. Jeanette Kigame and her staff this afternoon. We discussed ways that World Help can assist in helping the almost 1 million children that have been orphaned by the genocide and HIV/AIDS. We spent nearly an hour discussing potential projects. 

As our conversation drew to a close, I shared with her how in 1994 World Help had only been an organization for three years. We were young and had just eight employees. Although we wanted to help in Rwanda, we did not have the resources available. While America and the rest of the world sat by and did nothing, I told her that now is the time for us to stand up and help Rwanda rebuild. Now is the time for us to help the people of Rwanda. 

I told her of my visit to the genocide Memorial in Kigali where 250,000 Rwandans who died in the genocide are buried in mass graves. Only a few of their names are even known. As I left the museum, I read a sign on the wall that states simply, "I did not make myself an orphan." 

I also told her that as I walked towards the exit gate of the memorial, I was faced with a sight I will never forget. Lined up, waiting to enter the memorial were several dozen young Rwandans. Dressed in their best suits and dresses they stood with stoic expressions. Each one clutched a yellow flower to their chest. I’m sure they were there to pay their respects to loved ones who are buried there.  As I walked by I could only say, "I'm sorry." One of the survivors reached out, touched my hand, and said, "It's okay." 

But I don't think it's okay. The world stood by once and allowed the genocide to occur. We cannot stand by again when they are rebuilding their lives and country. 

I told all this to the First Lady and when I had finished, she was visibly moved and even teared up. As much compassion as we have for Rwanda, we cannot imagine their pain, sorrow, and loss. 

She then expressed her desire for us to join in her mission to not only help those who are hurting, but to give hope to the young people who are bearing the burden. I promised I would help and we ended the meeting in prayer. It was a very special time. 

One of the greatest needs in the rebuilding of Rwanda is the churches that were destroyed in the genocide. Many of the churches were the site of horrible atrocities. 

One of these churches has a special place in my heart. It was destroyed during the tragic killings and now the remnants stand skeleton-like, a constant reminder of the unspeakable acts that took place there. The funds to rebuild the church could not be raised. Now, the believers meet outside the church under the shade of a Mango tree. The church’s name has changed to The Church of the Blessed Mango Tree and almost every single one of these believers has lost family and friends to the genocide, as well as HIV/AIDS. 

I had the privilege of preaching there on Sunday. It was my first time to preach under a Mango tree and also the first time to use a drum as a pulpit. They asked me to share my testimony of cancer and speak on trials. As I spoke to them I told them that in every trial there is hope. And as I spoke, I knew I couldn't just tell them there was hope, I needed to help make it a reality in their lives. 

That is why I want to give this church a building. I want to do what hasn't been done in nearly 15 years and help to heal their wounds and be part of rebuilding their lives in a real and tangible way. So I'm asking you this Christmas, please help me rebuild this church. A gift of $100, $500, or $1,000 will make this possible. If everyone will do something, we can make their dream a reality.