I am quickly realizing ministry is unpredictable and flexible is vital to not just survive but thrive. The other day my triad was going to help in a math class; the second we walked in the teacher was so excited for the presence of gringos that he dropped his whole lesson. Then, hands us 24 Spanish-speaking second graders with bundles of energy with the expectation to expand their English beyond hello. In about 3 minutes we were in front of the class, writing out words and warming up our voices. Our lesson was a little unconventional with waving body parts around and having them repeat names and directions terms but we were able to engage the students and create a whole new learning experience for the students. Tip: songs are great ways to maintain attention of the class, have fun and get a bit of learning in as well 🙂 check out our lesson lol The profe (professor) even joined in and broke out some instruments for us!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzgYnZaxYAQ&t=4s
Video above Amber, Courtney, & I…Hokey Pokey style is how we get the lesson done!
Reflecting on this lesson reminds me of The Body of Christ. We all have different gifts and talents that come together to create one body. Our squad and my ministry team is the prime example of this body being in use. We all are learning how to identify and use our own gifts to benefit each other and the people we are serving.
“…For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, from one body, and each member belongs to to all the others.”
Romans 12:4-5
This month’s ministry has had ups and downs. This specific class was so fun and encouraging and I saw purpose in our time there. Other days have not had the same feelings. Some classes we only play with the kids, help the teacher or watch the kids run around. We have gotten discouraged at times with not feeling our purpose for our presence there. However, reflecting back on our time we have realized that our presence there has impacted more kids than we know. The hugs we gave away and the conversations we had and the mere act of kicking a ball around or throwing a frisbee gave us purpose. They might not remember the words we taught but they will remember the gringos that came into their school and loved on them. I believe God used and will continue to use our smiles and presence at this school in mighty ways. We have been able to create more opportunity for the future. Sometimes our purpose is just to plant the seed.
Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
Galatians 6:9
Fun Fact: Mangoes are not in season. I have asked at every market, store and numerous street vendors…I guess I’ll have to come back in January and February
