Spreading Seeds of Hope

“It all started with a dream… Nineteen years later, Mrs. Sendi’s dream has changed the lives of many children, giving them hope and a chance for a bright future”

Walking up a narrow road, my husband Shane and I were met by gates that opened to the Seeds of Hope Children’s Home. There were huge trees providing shade from the Bali heat and there sat Mrs. Sendi in her wheelchair, with Mr. Sendi beside her as they smiled pleasantly upon our arrival. They had been waiting for us. We sat with them and introduced ourselves. We were so excited to meet them and learn about all God had put on their hearts.

Mr. & Mrs. Sendi shared stories of how Seeds of Hope came to be. It all started with a dream, as most things do. Mrs. Sendi was blessed with funds to open an orphanage in the year 2000. She was thrilled and couldn’t stop working. Suddenly in 2001, she suffered a stroke. Doctors told her she had three months to live. After many prayers and much faith, three months later the doctors were stunned that instead of deteriorating, her body began to recover and she started speaking again.

As we spoke, the children came home from school and greeted Mr. & Mrs. Sendi. They took Mr. Sendi's hand and placed it on their forehead as a sign of respect. With Mrs. Sendi, or “Oma” (meaning grandma) as they respectfully call her, they gave her a hug and kiss on the cheek.

Nineteen years later, Mrs. Sendi's dream has changed the lives of many children, giving them hope and a chance for a bright future. Many of the children have gone on to be doctors, pastors, lawyers, managers and much more. The home currently houses 47 children between the ages of 4 and 21. With Tommy’s help, and the help of the older children in the home, all the chores get done around the orphanage without fail.

Throughout our conversation, Mr. & Mrs. Sendi never took any credit, but gave all thanks to God for his faithfulness. The joy of the Lord was shining through them so radiantly.

We got a chance to interact with all the children, singing songs and learning about each other’s culture. Shane played basketball with the boys, while I conversed with the girls about everything from hair to dancing and faith.

As we said our goodbyes and walked back down the narrow path, our hearts were filled with joy and compassion. Seeds of Hope Children’s Home is truly making a difference in the lives of these children and the surrounding villages. We are thankful to know that Mustard Seed supports this home, and is investing in the lives of children all throughout Southeast Asia, as they are the seeds of hope for a brighter future.

Written by Sonia Abraham, volunteer of Mustard Seed International