One week of our ministry in India, our team had the blessing and privilege to travel to children's homes in the area to lead Vacation Bible School. Our theme was "On Fire For God". We acted out Shadrack, Meeshack, and Abednago, memorized John 5:16, went on an imagination adventure to build a fire, braided red, yellow, and orange bracelets, played crazy games, sang "This Little Light of Mine", "Jesus Loves Me", and "Ho ho ho Hosana", and taught the kids about letting their lights shine amidst the idol worship. It was fantastic. I had a blast playing with the kids.
At one of the villages, there was a little boy who captured my heart (at each home there was at least one). As we played games, he jumped up and down holding my hand and beamed up at me. I melted. He was affectionate and I could tell that we had made a connection, but when I spread my arms and asked for a hug, he just looked at me. I wrapped my arms around him and gave him a little squeeze. He kind of cringed and gave me a look that said "what in the world are you doing to me, you crazy white woman???". Awkward. I asked our ministry contact, Paige, about it later. She told me that families here are functional and the kids don't really experience affection. That broke my heart. I believe that kids need to be hugged and they need to know that they are loved. I noticed it whenever we visited the homes, they children are craving affection. One boy from the home we painted for 2 weeks came up to me repeatedly on the last day I saw him to request "Hug! Hug!", then he would cringe and giggle in anticipation as I wrapped my arms around that sweet boy. These kids need love.
Giving a hug to the sweet boy who kept requesting them
Our last day of ministry was one of my favorite days on the Race so far. 110 kids from the nearby homes gathered for a monthly event called Second Saturday. I have never felt more blessed than when I got to sit in and worship with them. It didn't matter that the only word I understood was "Hallelujah". That was enough. I felt the presence of God so strongly in that room. 110 Indian children worshipping Jesus Christ, their Savior. Some of the older children were so lost in worship. It was incredibly beautiful. Then Kelly led them in singing "This Little Light of Mine." I choked up as they sang the last verse: "All around India, I'm going to let it shine." 110 children singing out these words. 110 children who are receiving the education and resources to rise up out of poverty. 110 children who will be doctors, teachers, engineers, and leaders throughout India. 110 children who are being raised to know and understand that God loves them so much that He sent His Son to save them and bring them back to Him. 110 children who will spread this Good News and let their lights shine throughout India. 110 children who will bring freedom to this nation. Oh if only I could get a glimpse 10 years into the future to see what these children of God are doing for His Kingdom, it would be so sweet.
Needless to say, this past month in India has been amazing. Despite the overwhelming heat, filth, noises, and smells, my heart for India grew. I'm in love with the ministry organization we partnered with this month: India Christian Ministry. I love their vision and their passion for spreading God's love and truth in India. The Covenant Children's Homes program is incredible. I love all that they do to make sure these kids are cared for and brought up to know the one true God. Check out this ministry at: http://www.covenantchildrenshomes.com/index.html
