Our first month of ministry is already over – it went by way too fast! I want to share a few things I’ve learned.
This month I taught preschool with Haley (the rest of our team worked with the older kids). If you asked me at the beginning of the month what I thought of my ministry placement, I was unsure and doubtful that I could lead a preschool class. The first week was rough, but I decided to throw myself into it and give my all.
By the second week, I knew that God had placed me there for a reason. I realized that I’m capable of more than I think. Even though I didn’t feel equipped or confident enough to teach, I did it with the Lord’s help. And looking back, I’m so glad I got to work in the preschool! The children have taught me so much, which is kind of ironic since I was the teacher!
Although they were crazy at times, they didn’t always listen, and they took a lot of energy, I’ve seen a joy and a love in each one of their personalities.
And I’ve felt God’s love in a brand new way.
The children give love so freely…. Last week one of the boys drew me a picture and gave it to me, and told me “I love you, Allana.” My heart nearly melted, I felt so loved! He asked me if I was going to leave soon to go back to America, and he looked so sad when I said yes.
On our last day in the preschool, the same little boy cried when we left – his mom said he didn’t want to say goodbye. I almost started crying too…
I’ve built real relationships with these kids, and with the preschool teachers, and it’s hard to say goodbye. How to you make friends within a few short weeks, and then say goodbye not knowing if you’ll ever see them again?
Even though it isn’t easy, my time here was worth it. I’m so thankful for the opportunity I had to love and serve these kids, and to see God’s love through them.
Thank you God for placing me in the preschool this month, and for using child-like faith to teach me more about you.
