To Give and to Receive

We felt incredibly blessed this morning to worship with the people of Monte Calvario.  We serve a God that does not know any language barriers.  His presence and spirit could be felt as people from all different backgrounds came together to worship.  

 

After worship we were given an opportunity to minister to the children in the church.  We shared the story of the Good Samaritan with them and tried to show them the importance of kindness and love.  

The children then participated in a craft activity.  One little girl loved to pick the backs of the stickers off and place them on her visor.  We watched her face and could feel her excitement without a word being spoken.  
Shortly after three team members performed a short skit using puppets.  The story was about the love of Christ and the forgiveness He gives to His people.  Before leaving we prayed over the children that God would continue to be the focus of their little lives as they continue to grow.  

 

After leaving the church we had an opportunity to spend some time with the children at CIPI.  Some of the children chose to participate in a game of kickball while others had their nails or faces painted.  The children were full of energy and love.  We had fun and could see that the children were thankful we were there.  

 

Finally, we made our way to the young moms staying at CIPI.  We were able to watch their babies in order to give them some “me” time.  We painted their nails and talked to them about their children and their futures.

One girl in particular shared with us the goals she had for her future.  She was also very honest with us about the fear and doubt she sometimes felt.  We were able to speak with her and share the hope that lives inside of us.  We encouraged her to work hard and pursue her dreams.  To never give up.  And most importantly to trust in the Lord. Before we left we prayed with her.  We are praying and believing the promises of God’s word that He has a hope and a future for her and all of the young moms we encountered today. 

 

We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus.  As we reflect on today we feel so honored and privileged to be a small part of God’s plan for the people we encountered.  We come here to pour out Christ’s love.  To fill the people we meet with his love and hope.  And at the end of the day, we are the ones that have greatly received.  

 

He is faithful and He is good!