During every visit to Daystar University, our staff is overwhelmed by the wisdom and gratitude poured out by the scholarship students supported through our office. As each of the students share stories of their childhood, their financial hardships, and their seemingly impossible dreams, several themes standout. This blog series is inspired by these students who are now our teachers in the lessons of life, faith, and service.
Proverbs 2:10 – “Wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.”
Isn’t it interesting how we often say we have “no words” to describe something so meaningful or beautiful, yet we continue trying to describe it? We have found ourselves witnessing this when we ask Daystar scholarship students about what their education means to them. We have seen how hard it is for students to find the right words to adequately describe their appreciation, let alone the possibilities that come with their education.
We read a similar story about speechlessness in the Bible, found in Daniel (10:4-19). Daniel has just seen a great vision and is left speechless, even terrified, because of the greatness of the story unfolding before him. An angel comes to him and says, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them.” Through the angel, God gives strength to Daniel to take in the incredible news and move forward confidently.
Daniel and the scholarship students carry a high calling, as the requirements for qualifying for financial aid at Daystar are extensive. Academic excellence, demonstrated leadership abilities, and personal interviews are required to determine the need and character of scholarship applicants. These students have set their minds to gaining understanding, applying principles learned in class to daily life, and remaining humble in light of the gift of education they received. Many have come to Daystar from life in Nairobi slums, abusive or divorced families, even persecution, yet they found hope that gave them strength to continue one day at a time.
Though we don’t always have the right words we can always share an encouraging word with others. Consider people in your community in need of encouragement and reflect on what could help make their day: an encouraging word, a small prayer of faith, or a token of appreciation. You never know what might make someone speechless with gratitude.