“But the very hairs of your head are all numbered” Matthew 10:30
Ever since I applied for my first missions trip three years ago, my heart has always been to go to an orphanage. Even as a child I loved being around children. I’m not sure exactly what it was/is that draws me to being around kids, but I just feel so at home with them. My hope has always been to go to an orphanage so that I could love on the kids that do not always receive the love that they deserve. I was extremely blessed to grow up with two parents who loved me and took care of me, making it their top priority that my sister and I felt loved. It breaks my heart to know that there are children out there that do not have that feeling of being loved for and taken care of.
And I’ve finally made it to an orphanage! We are here in Cambodia, in the city of Banan, in the district of Battambang, the second largest city in the South of Cambodia. Did you catch all that? Basically we are about 3 hours from the border of Thailand, in a rural town that is green and beautiful with mountains covering the landscape. The view out our window is like a gorgeous painting. And more than just the scenery, we are blessed by the people we are surrounded by. The children are Sa’aat (beautiful) and make me sab bye (happy) to be here.
While we are here, we will be going to several small group meetings, helping out with some work around the house, sharing at church on Sundays, and teaching an English lesson each night after dinner. But what I am looking forward to the most is being at the house and hanging out with the kids. To love on them with a simple game, by holding their hands, singing them a song, sharing some crackers with them, or even just sending a friendly smile their way, shows them the love of God.
As you know, I’ve been learning a lot about love this trip, and what true love from God really looks like. Heading into this month, I’ve really been praying a lot that God would give me his love for his children, and he really has answered my prayer. I can honestly say that I love these kids, not for who they are, not because they are cute, not because they are fun to be around, but because they are God’s children and He loves them more than I can even begin to understand. He knows the hairs on each of their head. He knows them and he loves them, so he sent me to show them that love. I am so honored and so excited to be a part of that love.
Thank you God for letting me be a messenger of your love for these children. I pray you will continue to give me your love for these children and that I would be obedient in sharing that love with them. Bless the Four Square Orphanage and the children that live here. Protect their health, and supply them with all of their needs. I pray that every day they will feel loved by you, and that they would grow up in your truth and your knowledge, learning how to be more like you everyday. Thank you for allowing me to be here. I love you Lord. Amen.
