It’s hard to think that many (haha kidding!! Only a few) years ago, I had a this idea come in my head about a Children’s orphanage pop up. That is when I started to grow more in my faith, so I can set that example for these kids. But never did I think that I would go on a year long missions trip and get the chance to experience it. Ive been teaching alot of English over the past 4 months but now it’s time for a change. These kids have a heart of gold. They aren’t necessarily orphaned but they are kids in need. They look up to Gadisa and Jordan as fathers. Just one week here and they took to us strongly. They didn’t know us well but that didn’t stop them from loving us. But this isn’t goodbye. One day, we will get to see them again! Thank you Testimony 25:40 for allowing us to come and spend time with them.
Tis the season to be jolly, right? Why are we only joyous during a certain season? I’ve experienced something far more greater than a Christmas joy this past week. Coming into Ethiopia, we were homeless after the Awakening. Not long but for a few hours. Our fearless team leader, Kenzie freakin Bell, came up big. We didn’t want to stay at the main compound the whole time so she found a place on Airbnb. The team and I moved to the new location to volunteer at an orphanage. They, also, worked with other world race teams before. Crazy, right?? God is cool.
I couldn’t have asked for a better time than this week. These children are truly incredible. It hit me right in the feels as we were saying goodbye but that is not the end. They showed me what it is to be joyful in every circumstance. There is nothing that can stop these children from showing God’s love to everyone. Walking down the street, they gave you a hug. Walking in the property, you got a hug. But they always ran.
Do I run to God just to give him a hug? I learned more from them what it is like to be a child of God and child-like faith. I want to run as fast as I can just to hug him. I want to run as fast as I can just to say “I love you!”
I don’t need a gift wrapped up in a box. I got what I needed. I received the Love of God. This Christmas season, I want to challenge you to something you most likely have never done before. I want you to go out and share the Love of God to someone in need. Stop always wanting blessings and go be a blessing to someone.
