Ssonko Nehemiah, a 78-year-old resident of Bukuuku village, is a man whose life is a reflection of hardships. His frail body and unsteady steps tell the story of a life weathered by time and trials. Unable to speak, his warm, childlike smile is the only expression of his spirit. JesusFe(JFM) met him, attempting to collect harvested maize—a simple task that highlighted his determination to survive despite his physical limitations. His struggles, however, extend far beyond his frailty; they encompass a life marked by isolation and a lack of basic necessities.
Living alone, Ssonko relies on the kindness of a neighborhood child who fetches water for him from a nearby pond. This water, however, is neither clean nor safe, compounding his challenges. The absence of access to clean water poses a daily risk to his health, further dimming the light of his already difficult life. Yet, even in these dire circumstances, Ssonko’s quiet endurance speaks volumes about the strength of the human spirit and the silent hope that sustains him.
When JFM encountered Ssonko, we responded with compassion and action. Providing him with free, high-quality rice, they not only met his immediate need for food but also offered him a glimpse of God’s provision. This simple act of kindness has given Ssonko enough food to sustain him for three weeks, during which he can reflect on the possibility of divine intervention in his life. It is a tangible expression of the gospel, demonstrating God’s love through action and care for the least among us.
Ssonko’s story is a call to prayer and action. His life embodies the struggles of many elderly individuals in rural Uganda who are often forgotten and left to fend for themselves. Through JFM’s ministry, there is hope that Ssonko will come to know the Lord’s grace and experience the joy of salvation. As we lift him up in prayer, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to care for the vulnerable, ensuring that no one is left behind in their time of need.