Awoken by the sound of roosters, most of our team was greeted by a rather brisk morning at the IAA orphanage. The day was busy beginning with breakfast and then an invitation to their Sunday services. The call to worship was given through local music that increased in volume closer to when the service began. The gates of the compound were opened so that those who heard the music would be welcomed to come and join in the worship.
The service was filled with testimonies by children in and around the orphanage and their love of Jesus. One profound word from an 8 year old: Worship God today, you may not be able to tomorrow. So beautiful. Even more beautiful is the unabashed joy as they sang and danced for the Lord. Songs of praise and adoration shouted in swahilli accompanied with clapping and nearly 100 dancing children, some as young as 2 years old.
Our hearts melted as little ones climbed into our laps or took our hands as they led us to join in celebration of our Lord and Savior. Nearly 3 hours of worship past as the service began to dissipate and we got to know the children even more as we played with them outside (soccer, swings, hair braiding, playing with toys, and taking pictures).
The children were fascinated with our womens’ long hair and the soccer skills of our guys. Long painted nails captivated as did watches, wheelchairs, and cameras. The children were deliriously happy to have people to play with. Notably, these children have very little. Their clothes are tattered and their shoes were riddled with holes; electricity is a commodity and food is treasured (especially cookies).
Most have no idea about facebook, twitter, cell phones, or internet; yet they love the Lord and worship Him with all their might. They are grateful and they reminded our team of the truly important things in life.
1 Corinthians 13:13 – And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.
A short break was followed with a training session that focused on the sessions that lie ahead in our 2 weeks here in Kenya. As we prepare to teach and minister in the community to those suffering from various traumas.
Tomorrow is a very full day where our team is splitting up and visiting an IDP (internally displaced persons) camp, and a school with 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Your prayers and support have been tremendously felt with our safe travels and keeping us healthy and allowing the Spirit to move through us.
-Libby
No comments:
Post a Comment