“Jesus is always right.” It started as a joke with the boys, but it became real. We would pray and they would shout out that phrase during the prayer. We would teach them English and, in return, they would teach us how to thrive in a village. We allowed them to pick on us and we just loved on them. What they didn’t notice was the amount they were teaching us. At such young ages, they were more grown up than us. They had to fully rely on Jesus more than we ever have.
They asked for volunteers to pray for us as we were to leave. We just finished a mighty dance party and so many were eager to pray for us. Three residents were chosen and began to pray. They prayed for safety. They prayed for our health. They prayed for us to make friends. They prayed for us to seek God. And in those prayers, tears strolled down my face. It wasn’t the words they were saying. It was the passion and love behind each word. It was their faith, despite their disabilities, that moved me to tears.
We asked her if she would sing for him since he wasn’t feeling well. She changed between “This Little Light of Mine” and “Jesus, Messiah.” And then we asked if she knew how to pray. She nodded that she did and even put her hands together. We then asked if she could pray for healing over him. With an agreement, she stood and prayed the only prayer she knew, The Lord’s Prayer. As we sat and listened, I felt the Spirit move. I felt healing coming from this little girl as she prayed for one of us. I don’t know her name, age, or any of her story, but she has a great faith in our Papa.
These stories come from different countries, living situations, ages, etc. But they all come from a strong, child-like faith in our Father.
I’ve just recently realized how child-based my Race has been. Within 6 out of 7 countries, children have been a part of ministry. I’ve had the opportunity to pray over babies that don’t understand to grown adults with disabilities, which limit their brain capacity to that of a toddler. I’ve spun around way too many times to count with a child holding on to my hands. I’ve carried sleeping children until my arms have gone numb. I’ve learned new games and taught new games. I’ve been a jungle gym to 4 children at once (maybe more).
Through all this, I’ve learned that I absolutely love children. And, I’ve learned that children can teach this world a thing or two.
Their words change the atmosphere.
Their joy is contagious.
Their prayers are powerful.
Their love is unending.
Their trust is immediate.
Their faith is unbreakable.
Maybe we should take time to listen to children more. You never know how your faith could grow by just one interaction.
