“I spy with my little eye… something green!” said little Ramondy, as I held her in my arms. She, like many others in Oceanview at Marine Primary School are longing, and seeking for the love and attention that is missing from their home. My team and I have been ministering to the children and teachers at the school this month. We began the month by helping the teachers cover school books with plastic, to protect and make them last longer. It was nice to have the time to do that as a whole team as well, because it enabled us to learn more about and get to know one another better. We covered books while the kids were in class, and then during recess, we were able to go hang out with the children and love on them.
When we go out to the play area, the kids just run to us! It is in those moments that I have stepped out of my comfort zone. I haven’t often been in a field full of children, seeking so much attention from me at once. It was a little overwhelming at first, but as the week went on, I began to understand my role in their life, for the short time I am here. My team and I are here, to sow into these particular children’s lives and let them know that they are special, that they are significant, and worthy of love. Although this is hard to see now, I believe we are making a difference in their lives.
We have also gotten the opportunity to visit a local hospital, and pray with the sick. One elderly woman in particular, named Monica was suffering with severe arthritis. She couldn’t speak much English, but we were able to hear how we could pray for her. After we had prayed with her, she began to weep. Even though we weren’t able to communicate much, I believe she felt the presence of the Lord. We were also able to visit those in the TB unit, and pray for healing with them.
Another ministry we’ve done is night street ministry. My team and another team from our squad also ministering in Oceanview met and went out together through the neighborhood where people hang out to drink, smoke, and deal drugs. We walk out into the neighborhood and talk with people about their lives and ask to pray with them. It has been really cool to see the people open up and share what is going on in their world, and to be able to encourage them.
All of these ministries have stretched me in different ways. Each time I take one more step beyond my comfort circle, God is there, right in front of me with his hand out, encouraging me onwards. He is also in front of you; inviting you to step out. Will you come too?
“If God is for us, who can be against us?” Rom 8:31
