…That’s What it’s All About!

Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.

Matthew 19:14

 

Kids songs are catchy…and when you get them stuck in your head, it’s hard to get them out! The last two weeks, I have had countless childrens songs in my head.
I’ve sung them before, but working with 2-5 year olds every morning for
ministry, it has become a MUST to sing, dance and “make a fool” out of
yourself in order to make the kids laugh, smile and learn English in the process!

 

God blessed me and my teammate, Renee, with an opportunity to serve as Kindergarden teachers at Sprout, a Childrens Developmental Centre. The ladies who work there have a PASSION, LOVE, and DESIRE to see these children grow up knowing English, loving God and being leaders of the next generation! As much as the children were adorable, amazing, inspiring, and exhausting, it was the women I ended up loving and becoming eager to see each and every day!

 

When we first arrived, I was expecting more kids than what showed up. What a blessing it was to only have a few there, so that we could get to know these beautiful women of God who want to bring Kingdom here in Ukraine. They are reaching the younger generation, and touching hearts and lives because of it. They exhaust all they can day after day to minister to these children – and their parents. I was inspired and blown away by each one. I knew within the fist few hours I was at Sprout that my ministry was going far beyond the kids – it was to and for these women – and for me. We were to become a sisterhood…praying each and every morning for God to lead and direct us every step of the way!

 

Upon arriving, and having more adults than kids, I began to “float” around the facility, helping out with various tasks. Renee fell in love with Lera and the 4-5 year olds (check out her blog here with more of my pics). I did everything from helping Brittany with English Club, Katia with art projects, taking photos (my passion) and handing out flyers to promote the Centre down the boardwalk along the river – which gave me the opportunity to build a relationship with Julia and enjoy a Ukrainian fall!

 

I loved everything about this ministry. These women became my friends and my sisters. Eating traditional Ukrainian food for lunch and our morning tea and prayer times were blessings. This is where God needed us to be. I believe they were there to bless us as much as we were there to bless them. As much as I was there to teach and love, I firmly believe I was there to listen and learn. Children have so much faith, trust and wisdom – and I have so much to learn!

 

What has a child taught you today!? Patience? Love? Grace? After all, isn’t this what it’s all about!?