…Saturday was my very last day of ministry.
And I didn’t even think I would do anything special. But another team staying at my hotel was going to an orhpanage and I decided to go along. I didn’t expect much out of it because usually it is hard to build relationships in one day, especially at an
orphanage.
But my expectations were exceeded immensely!
The kids were incredible and I think it was the most fun I have had in a long time! Most of the kids were orphaned because of AIDS. We spent about 5 hours there and I didn’t want to leave. One girl in particular clung to me the whole time and even gave me a bracelet. At the beginning, she was so playful and joyful! She laughed at everything and kept trying to communicate with me even though I know hardly any french.
At one point, I noticed her sitting on the wall looking very sad. I went and sat with her and she would barely look at me. She was upset about something but I had no idea what. She covered her face and tried to secretly wipe away tears. My heart broke. There was absolutely nothing I could do or say, so I just sat next to her and stroked her back. It took everything in me to not start crying right there. Eventually she was able to cover up however she was feeling and was back to playful self again. I couldn’t imagine all the things she has to deal with as a young girl, probably not more than 12 years old. Once again I was reminded of why I am doing what I’m doing and why I’m living this life. It is not my own, but I belong to Christ and he has shown me his heart.
And I didn’t even think I would do anything special. But another team staying at my hotel was going to an orhpanage and I decided to go along. I didn’t expect much out of it because usually it is hard to build relationships in one day, especially at an
orphanage.
But my expectations were exceeded immensely!
The kids were incredible and I think it was the most fun I have had in a long time! Most of the kids were orphaned because of AIDS. We spent about 5 hours there and I didn’t want to leave. One girl in particular clung to me the whole time and even gave me a bracelet. At the beginning, she was so playful and joyful! She laughed at everything and kept trying to communicate with me even though I know hardly any french.
At one point, I noticed her sitting on the wall looking very sad. I went and sat with her and she would barely look at me. She was upset about something but I had no idea what. She covered her face and tried to secretly wipe away tears. My heart broke. There was absolutely nothing I could do or say, so I just sat next to her and stroked her back. It took everything in me to not start crying right there. Eventually she was able to cover up however she was feeling and was back to playful self again. I couldn’t imagine all the things she has to deal with as a young girl, probably not more than 12 years old. Once again I was reminded of why I am doing what I’m doing and why I’m living this life. It is not my own, but I belong to Christ and he has shown me his heart.
When it was over, my heart was aching. God has shown me so much of his sovereignty by giving me these opportunities and I trust his perfect timing, but I wish I had more time with these kids.
While I was so frustrated and discouraged all month, doing little projects here and there, God was so faithful in the end!
I truly feel as though I have accomplished the will of God for me this month. And I feel such peace about moving on to Nigeria. I cannot even begin to explain all that God has taught me this month, but it is almost more than I can even process. He is so good to me and I have been blessed beyond belief here in Togo!
I truly feel as though I have accomplished the will of God for me this month. And I feel such peace about moving on to Nigeria. I cannot even begin to explain all that God has taught me this month, but it is almost more than I can even process. He is so good to me and I have been blessed beyond belief here in Togo!
NEXT STOP: LAGOS, NIGERIA!
