The Faith of a Child

We talked for a while tonight about how amazing our time with the kids was today.
We began the day by reading a story with the kids and getting them to act out the roles (which was hilarious...they are quite the little actors). Afterwards we gathered them together with us to decorate some little tote bags and hats that we bought for them. They could have colored on those things for hours. We were so blown away at how much they love each other, and how well they look out for their other brothers and sisters. They shared markers, older kids drew outlines for the smaller kids, and others helped with spelling and writing words in English. What's so amazing about these kids is that they have such a genuine faith, and it even shows up in their creativity. They were able to draw or write anything they wanted on their hats and totes, and so many wrote things like "I love Jesus" and they seemed to beam with joy over those words. They not only openly talk about their love for Christ, but they so visibly show that love to the neighborhood children. They let the kids from the surrounding area participate in their games, share in their gifts, and accept them as if they were family. It was an outward expression of what they know in their hearts about Jesus' words to his disciples in Matt 18. "...Whoever receives one such child in My name receives Me."
Mark, who was here last year on a construction trip, was telling us about how much of an impact teams such as ours have had on these kids. As he stood there with the children looking at photos on their wall, they could name specifically past team members' names as they pointed to them. It made us all feel very special to know that the small part we are playing in their life stories will hopefully have a positive impact for years to come. One of our goals on this trip is to make memories. We want to create "wow" moments so that even if they can't remember who we are, they will hopefully remember an experience, trip, embrace, or conversation that will bring a smile to their face and become a lasting memory. I know each of us has a unique “wow” moment already.
I can honestly say that we are blessed to be a part of this experience, and I know that our lives will never be the same.

Our hearts swell with joy when we look into their little faces, and we just want to thank all again for providing the prayer and financial support that has allowed us to be a part of this amazing experience.