But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Luke 18:16-17
Life in the Dominican Republic has made this verse come more alive to me than ever before! A big part of our ministry this month has been something similar to what we call Vacation Bible School back in the States. Three times a week we walk down to a little park and play, sing, present a Bible story, and play some more. I have always had a heart for children, but the Lord truly showed me what this verse means the other day.
We had told the children we would be at the park at 2 o’clock on Friday afternoon. At about 1:15pm I was walking out our front door and saw three precious little faces peering through the fence (picture below). There they were 45 minutes early awaiting our presence, but why? Was it because they had some exciting fun story to tell us? No, we don’t even speak the same language. Was it convenient and they lived next door? No, they made the 2-3 block trek to find us. Was it because we provide their every want and need? No, as much as we would love to, this just isn’t really an option as there are 6 of us and 40+ of them. They were there awaiting our presence because they very well knew what we were bringing with us… a supernatural LOVE just for them.
By the time it was actually time to leave for the park there were another 4 outside the fence, and they were all ready to grasp our hands and walk to the park together. As we got within sight of the park many more came sprinting out of their homes to leap into our arms fully loved, fully accepted, fully loving, and fully accepting. As these events have played out several times now I feel myself continually being reminded of Jesus’ words, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
I feel the Father longing for me to approach him with the same mentality as the little ones here in the D.R. Waking up in the morning excited, ready, and awaiting my time spent with Him. Sprinting towards him faithfully leaping into his arms loving Him with all that I am and knowing that I am fully loved and accepted by Him. I am so thankful that the Lord is using me in the life of the children here in San Juan, but even more appreciative of the lessons they are continuously teaching me about how to Love the Lord with everything I have! 
