I smiled at her. She smiled at me.
She sat beside me. I asked for her name: Karina.
She asked for mine and braided my hair.
I offered her paper and markers.
Karina sat on my lap, and drew in my notebook.
I rubbed her back and prayed for her.
A daughter of the King – 6 years old, born of San Juan.
I know God has brilliant and life-changing plans for her life, it’s humbling to even consider being a part of her life.
She understands no English – but the Holy Spirit speaks directly from my heart to hers.
She walks alone in her neighborhood, but that’s all she knows.
The church is safe – and the church offers friends.
Pastor Selenda loves all the ninas and ninos welcoming them in.
Karina is quiet and shy, but clings to my side.
Her name is Johannes – a mother, a friend.
She loves her three ninas, Carolina, Katherin and Sar-ah.
Her mother is sweet, and kisses you on the cheek.
Her husband teaches math, and laughs a lot.
Welcoming us into her home, her church, her life –
A beautiful relationship and Christ-centered sisterhood is what we see.
With her family we read scripture, and the language barrier does not exist.
Smiles, kisses, hugs, and the phrase “Dios te bendiga” have founded a friendship.
Katherin is five, going on six.
She sings to the Lord with reckless abandon –
and waltzes everywhere in her cute little high-heel sandals.
She walks in kindness and joy, tackling every opportunity set before her with boldness.
She speaks with soundness of thought and assertiveness.
I see a confidence and intentionality in this little girl many adults wish they had.
A simple smile and visit to her house, solidified our friendship, and her family has welcomed my team to be a part of their family and home as long as we are in the D.R.
Ana loves to laugh, and smile, and play.
At ten years old, she stands in wonder of God’s Word.
Together we read in English + Spanish from my Bible (her Biblia).
We met her day #1, and each day she greets us on our way to the church.
Her brother Anthony is quite a site – his smile could fill the neighborhood with light.
A tall girl with lots of character – this girl operates with little fear.
but a woman who fears the LORD, is to be praised.”
-Proverbs 31:30
