This week has been so challenging for our team and this ministry in a number of ways. The darkness is trying to rise against us and it can definatly be discouraging. However, God has shown me a perfect picture of finding joy in the darkness this week.
On Monday we took the kids from the tutoring class in one of the slums to a beautiful beach away from the darkness and grime. They dressed in their best clothes and you could see the light and excitement bursting from thier smiling faces. We had a picnic with lots of cookies and soda and chips…things they don’t usually get to eat. Then we headed down for some fun on the beach! As soon as we started walking up to the shore the kids were rolling up the pants legs, taking off thier shirts, and running towards the water…they were so excited! It all started with wading in the water with them, then catching tiny fish…a little bit of playful splashing…and suddenly I’m completely soaked. We all had splashing fights, wrestled in the water, swam around and it was glorious. As they were splashing and playing with the biggest smiles on thier faces I realized that they had absolutley no worries. They didn’t have to worry if they had something to eat, they didn’t have to worry if they had nice clothes or about where they lived….or if someone was going to beat them. They had pure joy and freedom bursting from within them. It is one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen. Helping be a part of making these kids feel carefree, even for just a moment, was one of the best feelings I’ve ever experienced.
As believers, we should have this freedom and joy bursting from inside of us all of the time. God is in control, he is always protecting us and providing for us. We never have anything to worry about and to know that and realize that is so freeing. Now, every time I get overwhelmed with worry or with fear, I will think of these kids and I will be inspired to choose joy in Christ. To smile wide and face the waves with a light heart and a trusting spirit.
