Our Iris Madagascar Center, located in the capital city of Antananarivo, is full of beautiful children overflowing with joy and the love of Jesus! Every child living at the center has their own unique story to tell. The testimonies of all the Lord has brought them through before coming to live here at Iris are enough to even bring unbelievers to their knees. Story after unimaginable story, tell the awesome power of God and His ability to protect, rescue, and transform those often forgotten by the world. To see these amazing children now, you would never know the hardships they have already endured at such an early age. As we stop for each one the Lord puts in front of us, we are able to see Jesus take what is broken and transform each life into something powerfully beautiful. That is a true picture of the redeeming power of the love of God!
Ravaka’s Story
Ravaka has been at our Iris Madagascar Center for eight years and was one of the first kids to join our big family.
Ravaka has three older and two younger siblings who all live here at our Iris Center as well. Her smile truly lights up the room, and she has such a pure, gentle spirit. She is incredibly bright, and aspires to become a doctor one day. We have no doubt the Lord is going to use her mightily to advance His kingdom here in Madagascar.
A couple of months ago, Ravaka came to one of our staff and asked if we could do something special for her. She was a bit shy to ask at first, but eventually told us that she really wanted to go and find the family who had cared for her when she was living on the streets. She said that the Lord had put it on her heart to go and thank them for taking care of her as if she was their own. It had been years since she had seen them, and we weren’t even sure if they still lived in the same place. So, we prayed, and we went. Our first attempt was unsuccessful, as the family was gone on a holiday, but we were able to give the neighbor our number and asked to have them call when they returned.
A week later, we received a call. The family was so excited to learn that Ravaka was doing well and could not wait to see her! We went that afternoon, and it was such a joyous reunion! We were able to thank the family for all they had done for Ravaka, and to encourage them in the impact they have had on her life. It brought closure to Ravaka and gave her peace knowing that she had been able to give thanks to the ones the Lord had used to save her from the streets!
God’s Great Purpose
This story about Ravaka is just a small testimony to the great work the Lord is doing in the hearts of the children here at Iris Madagascar. As they learn that God has a great purpose for their lives, they are growing in their confidence and ability to hear from Him and begin to walk in their individual callings. They are the next generation of believers who will change their nation as they begin to “stop for the one” in front of them.
For those of you who pray and give, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support of our kids means more than you know, and is truly making an eternal impact on their lives and for the kingdom of God.
Love and blessings from us here at Iris Madagascar, Antananarivo Base!
See more children like Ravaka that are learning the great purpose God has for their lives.