Buko

Today I saw one of my kids Buko playing on the street. He has not come to Ithemba since last year(Dec). I have seen him a couple times this year on the streets playing with other kids, and have also randomly met his father one day. He came up to us one day and started a conversation about his life and his son that I found out was Buko. I told him I was his teacher and he thanked me repeatedly for my work and time spent with his son, but I could smell the alcohol on his breath. Last week I saw both Buko and his father in the morning when he should have been in school. His father was clearly drunk and was dragging him along by his side. My heart broke, but what could I do I thought to myself. Then today as I was walking to Ithemba the kids were just getting out of school. I spotted Buko immediately; I ran over to him so excited and scooped him up into my arms. He looked at me and smiled, but something was different. He didn�t� want to look at me and he didn�t want to be in my arms. I let him down and asked if he could come to Ithemba. The other older kids translated for me and he got angry (which rarely happens) and walked away. I caught up to him and tried to talk to him, but he looked at me sadly, waved goodbye and kept walking. I wish I could describe to you better what went on or what I felt. It might not sound like a big deal, it could just be a kid having a bad day and not wanting to talk. But I knew in my heart and spirit that that is not what it was. Something else is going on. I remembered back to when I met his father and he said it�s just him and Buko. This little 6 year old boy is living with an alcoholic father to care, provide and give him emotional stability. I realized which he probably isn�t getting except the physical nourishment. I have not been able to stop thinking about Buko. My heart is completely broke

for him. I feel such a strong urgency to stand in the gap for him and whatever is

 going on in his life. I am asking you also to stand in the gap for him. I don’t think

 its a coincidence that I met his father that one day on the street or that I am

 seeing Buko randomly. God is showing me that he needs prayer, because what if I am

the only one in his life that is praying for him. So that is why I am asking you,

 my brothers and sisters to pray for him.

Pray for: Protection

The blood of Jesus Christ over him

Emotional, and Physical safety

Bondage broken for his fathers addiction to alcohol

Salvation would be come to their house

As soon as I know anything else of have more information I’ll be sure to update you
all. Thank you for your prayers and encouragement. Keep on!

Seeking His Heart,

-ellie