A high school principal in Ohio lost his job after choosing to help a homeless student and he has no regrets about it.
The student, Landerius Hayes who goes by DeDe, was having a really hard time as a high school junior. He could not live with his parents because of safety and personal issues.
On cold nights he had to sleep inside a car with the heater running just to stay warm. Then a letter arrived showing his mom moved outside the school district.
The rules meant DeDe had to leave Lakota East High School right away. District leaders told the principal that the boy could not stay because he had no local parent address.
Instead of just processing the paperwork like most people would, Principal Rob Burnside went home and talked to his wife Angel. Her immediate response was to offer DeDe a room in their house.
The couple had already adopted two kids in the past and they prayed together for guidance. Rob prayed “God, if this is your will for this young man to be in our home, make it clear.”
Five minutes later DeDe sent Rob a text message saying “Hey, Mr. Burnside.” That was all the answer they needed.
The Burnsides took DeDe into their home and became his legal guardians. But since the district still would not let him attend school, Rob let DeDe keep coming to class anyway.
That decision caused the district to force Rob to resign or face termination. DeDe even offered to leave so Rob would not lose his job. Rob looked at him and said “DeDe, you’re part of this family, we’re not gonna turn our back on you.”
Rob still cannot find a job as a principal in his area but he has zero regrets. He asks “What value can we put on the life of a young person?”
DeDe recently graduated from another high school with Rob and Angel cheering in the stands and he is working to become an aviation mechanic.
Many people think that living a Christian life is all about blessings, abundance, and comfort. But the truth is actually the opposite. Being a Christian is truly a path of sacrifice. Just as our Lord carried that heavy cross and died for us, God calls each of us to take up our own cross and follow Him.
That journey is not easy. It comes with loss, insult, mockery, pain, and hardship.
This principal knew that reality firsthand. He lost his job, his income, and his position in the community, but he showed us what true faith looks like in action.
Let us pray to God to give us a heart like Jesus to love and serve others selflessly.
Please pray that God opens new doors for Rob Burnside and protects young people like DeDe who need a safe home.
WATCH: Principal Leaves 30-Year Career Behind to Save a Student
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