The guilt and struggles we face can be detrimental to our well-being and mental health. Guilt may lead to depression, low self-esteem, and strained relationships over time. These feelings can evolve from guilt and worry to shame and anxiety.
Xolani Malebo knows this too well as he struggles to overcome guilt. When he arrived at the KwaSizabantu Mission on 12 December 2019, he was homeless and an alcoholic. At the time, he was estranged from his family because of his wrong life choices, and he neglected his two children. His choices landed him in prison for 15 years, which gave him enough time to reflect on his life.
CYPSA visits communities, schools, and even prisons nationwide as part of their outreaches. Xolani heard about their programme when they came to the prison where Xolani was incarcerated. They also shared the Good News about Jesus Christ and how He died for all our sins. Upon his release, Xolani went to the mission, and on 16 December 2019, he heard Rev Stegen preach. This service changed his life forever.
“The reverend preached about the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32), and said, ‘This is my story and your story too.’” These words changed Xolani’s life, as he realised he also received an inheritance from his Heavenly Father. Today, Xolani is free from the shame he felt of neglecting his children and family. He has been blessed with a job at KwaSizabantu. He is a laboratory technician at aQuellé, a position he had never envisioned having in his life. And he loves it!
Xolani has the following message for those wanting to learn from his experience: “It now rings true that only God knows what He has planned for you, and I am now the father to my children that I always should have been.”
Read Xolani’s full story as well as other inspiring stories in the Devoted magazine:
Image credits: All pictures provided by KwaSizabantu
