When my team and I were told that we were going to be teachers at a school this month, I think we all pictured a small village school that lacked wealth and seasoned teachers. Our expectations were not met in slightest when we walked into Anderson School on our first day of ministry here in Ecuador.
This Christian school has a beautiful facility, complete with a soccer turf, volleyball court, basketball court, a snack bar for the kids, cooking classes with corresponding chef outfits, a rigorous IB program, and very competent and capable teachers. Materialistic wealth and prosperity are evident here at Anderson School. At first, my team and I were at a loss as to how we could be of any help and make an impact at a Christian school that seemed to be doing just fine on their own. However, after forming relationships with many of the students and faculty, it became very clear what our purpose was here.
My role as the PE teacher allows me to see every age group during the week, which gives me the opportunity to create a wide variety of relationships with so many different students. During the first week of ministry, I met an atheist teacher, multiple agnostic teenagers, an 8-year old that didn’t know the name Jesus, and 3 high school girls that have left the church due to bad experiences. So, while this school is materialistically very wealthy and prosperous, spiritually these grounds are so, so poor. And none of that wealth means anything without Christ.
I came to realize very quickly that everyone needs Jesus, and that ministry isn’t solely for those who live in the slums or orphans, but also to those that seemingly have everything. One’s social and economic status doesn’t exclude them from being ministered, discipled, helped, or cared for.
Everyone is in dire need of His grace, His love, and an intimate relationship with Him.
