This past week I got the opportinity to go to the Shelter of Love Center with my team. This place is known to the world as an orphanage but it was made known to me as a special place of radiance. As we arrived, there was an overwhelming peace and joy that washed over me and filled my spirit. The kids immediately greeted us at the van and walked us around the property. I was in love already! One kiddo named Pheaktra came up to me and grasped his hand in mine. I had an instant connection with this boy and right away saw Jesus in his gentleness, playfulness, and kindness towards me. Walking the beautiful and enormous property, he picked me a bunch of flowers and plants and just kept adding to them. The people there were so down to earth, willing to show a care so deep and genuine.
With each encounter and playful game of soccer there was a lighthearted and welcoming feeling behind it. That was the atmosphere there, a place of a different, unexplainable love. My new little friend guided me to a giant field next to a lake. Oh. My. Goodness. I have never seen such a beautiful sight as a bunch of little children running and skipping through grass fields with the biggest smiles. It was magical! We played hide and go seek in the field. Their adorable faces peeked through the big stalks of grass! I stood there taking it all in, I began to get teary eyed. I have learned that usually when I have tears in midst of happiness it is because of this overwhelming emotion for the Lords presence is near. Wow was He there! I could see Him in the children, I found butterflies, which is my symbol He assures me with, and He probably was right alongside us running, beaming with delight! I have never felt such a freedom before, as I did running through that field and along the entire land barefoot with arms open wide or hand in hand with that sweet little boy! I was surrounded by a bunch of kids running with no cares and full of such a love and happiness in their hearts. There, in that field, with those kids, who may not have all the luxuries of life, but do indeed have the spirit of our Heavenly Father, I was just a little kid again playing with Jesus! This is how life should be lived. Being playful in the Lords goodness! Those kids were abandoned or left lonely, they have had hardship and struggle that no kid should have to experience and yet have such big hearts that are full of love. They are at home with the father in their sanctuary of love, peace, and happiness. Each one of those kids at that shelter got a little piece of my heart that day! Thank you Jesus for showing me more of you and your unfailing love through the people I meet and the places you take me.
