Like A Child
Then they brought little children to Him, that He might touch them; but the disciples rebuked those who brought them. But when Jesus saw it, He was greatly displeased and said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not forbid them, for of such is the kingdom of God. Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” And He took them up in his arms, laid His hands on them and blessed them. – Mark 10:13-16
This month, really this year, I have learned so much from CHILDREN. There have been so many children that have come into my path that have changed my life forever. From little gifts to hugs to the way they love everyone. I want to be like a child again.
Jesus says to be like a child. How better to learn that then spending time with them. I have been around children this whole race. Coming in to the race, I always told people, “kids really are not my ministry, I do better with high school, college-age and older people..anything but kids.” I think that is precisely why God put me with children as the primary focus for 7.5 of the last 10 months. God wanted me to trust in Him and not my own abilities. Also, God wanted me to learn from the children.
Jesus’ disciples’ thought they had it all together, they had been with Jesus and had done miracles and all these things. But He said to them, “Therefore, whoever humbles themself as this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven” (Matthew 18:2). If I want to be great, become like a child….ok.
Some beautiful memories with the children this month
One day, Aon and I played all afternoon. We played badminton, swung on the swings, I followed her on our bikes. She didn’t have a care in the world. She just wanted to spend time with me, no more and no less. Simple.
Everyday, the girls work hard. They do all their chores. They are devoted. They serve. They love. When I am still sitting, they take my dishes with a smile. They clean everything and do everything together.
Thai girls are so sweet. They are very shy but I love it. They never want to embarrass anyone or put anyone in an awkward position. If you ask a question they don’t know or do something to make them mad, they just smile or laugh. They don’t lose their temper.
Bann is a beautiful girl with a heart of gold. She gives the love of God. I did not do anything to deserve it, but she freely gives. She gave me stickers and notes. The other day, I was just sitting and had no energy, when she came up and started cleaning my nails. She spent a half hour taking off the chipped nail polish and cleaning. At the end, she said “beautiful.” She gives without expecting anything in return.
Pat loves God and is always singing and helping the younger girls. She tells me of her dreams to minister to the Geisha’s in China. She said, “I want to tell them Jesus loves them, someone has to tell them.” She has a beautiful smile and beautiful heart. I know God will use her.
New girls. At least once a week, we get a new girl. It has been amazing to watch the older girls comfort the younger ones. The younger girls will cry, and the older girls will hold them in their arms until they go to sleep. They are just children, but they understand the importance of their presence and love.
Yesterday, we saw a father bring his daughter and all her belongings. I watched the whole thing. You could see how hard it was for the father, and Siye just followed him closely. The next day, her father was gone. Siye is doing fine. It’s a new day, a new life, and she has faith that it will work out.
Thang has been my saving grace. I had a horrible day and just her presence made me feel better. She didn’t say anything or give me anything. She just sat with me and hugged me and smiled. We have spent a lot of time together. Sometimes, we read the Bible, sometimes we cuddle, sometimes run around and tickle each other, sometimes we just sit and stare off. When I am with her, I don’t have to do anything. I am free to be me, even if that is just a tired selfish girl. She does not care. She just loves.
Sharing. I have never seen anything like it. If one of the girls has one thing of candy, she will share it with everyone. They do whatever it takes to make people feel special. If they see someone wants or likes something, they give it away. They don’t think about it, they just do it.
Freely Give.
My presence is important.
Just enjoy life.
Work Hard.
Don’t question.
Serve others.
Trust.
Don’t think too hard.
Obey.
Do things together.
Play.
Live simple.
Love everyone all the time!
P.S. We are safe in Malaysia. We will be working in a farm in the Jungle outside of Kuala Lumpur for the month. Please pray for our last month!!! Praise God.
