We met the kids TODAY! What an amazing event. My words will not do it justice....just try to imagine over 30 smiling faces greating you as you pile off of a bus. I watched as some of our team got off the bus and walked right into the arms of the most precious little children ever. I stood there on the bus, watching as they hugged last years vets. They all remembered Jon, Mark and Mike WELL and it showed. The children just clung to them and called out their names. As I stepped off the bus, I could only hope to learn a name or maybe get a small hug from a child or two but that was not in the plans for these children...they greated me with open arms as well. We hugged like we'd known each other all of our lives. As we stood there hugging I thought, ïf Heaven is anything like this when I enter the gates, then I have a LOT to look forward to". It was a little piece of heaven that God gave me here on earth. I held back tears long enough to enter the church where we would have our service. And then the tears came. I was so overwhelmed with what God had already done for us in just the first meeting....AND WE HAVEN'T EVEN BEGUN!
The children sang songs before and during the service that was such beautiful music. We couldn't understand much but we knew that God was there with us. The sermon was given today from John 12. As the pastor spoke (in Khmer) I decided to read on my own from John 12. This scripture tells about the last 6 days of Jesus' life. The scripture that stood out to me was John 12:26 "Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me." It has been an honor just to be here and serve. It is quite an honor to be the hands and feet of such an amazing God.
We taught the children the Easter story, they made journals in art that they LOVED (glitter and Cambodians....crazy combination) and we played games to teach them that leaning on one another is very important.
It was a great day. We're tired. My bed is calling my name.
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God is using you mightily Mistye & the blessing will be great.
ReplyDeleteSafety & blessing to you and all your team members.
Cal & Brenda Wilson
John,
ReplyDeleteI can't stay off the website. I read what you wrote today and was using my shirt to keep my face dry long enough to finish reading it. I really miss the kids and know that you and your team are a perfect fit for them this year. Heather and I are very excited about hearing how the trip went and how it changed your lives as well. You really had me on the bus looking through the windows at all of the childrens faces as you drove up. I agree, if Heaven is anything like that, I can't wait either. We will continue to pray for your health on the trip and that God works through you and your team to penetrate the kids and feed their hearts and souls with the word. God does remarkable things through remarkable people. Have fun and hug a kid for me.
Craig and Heather......
WOW! I'm having flashbacks...
ReplyDelete...okay, I'm back to reality now, sorry. Thank you so much for sharing that, I remember when I stepped off the bus Takna grabbed my hand and then took my backpack from me and carried it all by himself! We're all praying for you to have a wonderful experience and safe travels. Also, that God will use you as a living example to the children there of the meaning of John 12:26!
Tad
How amazing... "If heaven is anything like this, then I have a LOT to look forward to.... made me cry... (but I am just that way)
ReplyDeleteHow touching that the children remembered the team members from last year! You can see what a difference that you all make in these little ones lives....
"Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me."
You are touching my life as well.... I will try to remember this always.
Love and hugs from home to all of you....
Mike W's mom
Mistye, you have a wonderful way of connecting. I was smiling and teared up half-way through. I can envision the smile on your face. Sounds like an awesome day.
ReplyDeleteHeath Wilson
I just love reading the blog and following your journey. It makes me feel as if I am right there again with the children. I think you did an amazing job in describing meeting them. If heaven is like that it will be joyous and overwhelming. Thanks to all of you for sharing with us back at home. We are keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. I pray your words and actions pour the message into these little souls. I am sad that I can not be there this year but I am joyous to read along and see all that is happening. Thanks again!!
ReplyDeleteJon we can't wait to see you soon. I know Molly is missing you! :) John and I are keeping you in our prayers as you guide the team!
Wow, this sounds so incredible! I love keeping up with the trip! Jon, we are thinking about ya'll and praying for the group- what an incredible opportunity God has given ya'll!!!
ReplyDeleteMistye,
ReplyDeleteI didn't know you were writing "A Little Piece of Heaven" until I reached the bottom of the page. I should have known it was you, describing Heaven in your own sweet way to me like when we were little. And wow, you did describe it in such a great way. A way that I hadn't even thought Heaven would be like, with tons of smiles and open arms coming your way. I prayed for you all throughout the day on Monday as you led and I hope the beach trip and ride goes well.
Love you, Cherish
Mistye, we enjoy reading the day's events. Your dad told Heath yesterday you may bring six little ones home with you. Love you, Mama and Daddy
ReplyDeleteMistye! I loved reading your post. Heath is right that you have such a great way connecting! Sounds like such an awesome experience and a way to be greeted by the children you are working with. All of us in sg can wait to hear the details when you get back! Hope you enjoy the last few days with the kids and your free time this weekend.
ReplyDeletePatrice