God has placed a piece of Himself and His light in each and every one of us. It is deliberate, beautiful, and intended for others to see.
Today I felt God's light not only glowing through me but I also saw it in the twinkling eyes of the babies and the spirited smiles of the disabled people that we visited. The most beautiful thing about it all was that neither myself or the people I was with were controlling this wonderful exchanging of Light; it was all God using each of us to touch the other in powerful ways at the exact same moment.
One particular baby was left on the side of the road by her mother and the caretakers said that she was the most traumatized baby there because of it. Then our guide handed her to me and as soon as I looked in her eyes all I could think was "You are so beautiful and you are a Child of God. Please know that." The amazing thing was that she was soon the center of attention! She was lively and friendly to everyone! I have no idea why she was so open to everyone but I like to think that it was God shining His light through everyone there that made her feel comfortable with all of us.
So I am thankful for all the experiences of today even though they sounded a little awkward and scary at first. I feel like it helped prepare me as well as the rest of the team for uncomfortable situations that will face us in Swaziland. It was a good practice to put myself out there because I will never regret something I did for God's people.
~Sarah Henry
PS - Parents if you would like to send a note of encouragement / greeting to your student - please do so by adding a comment. We would love to pass a word of greeting to your students!
Matt
Jessica, I am so proud of you and the work you are doing for God. Please know that we are all praying for you and your team. Be safe and may God bless you all. Dad
ReplyDeleteThanks for the updates, Jen and Sarah. It is so good to hear about your days. Our kids keep running to the computer to check the S. Africa clock we found so that they have some idea of what you're doing at any given time. Hope you're all sleeping soundly right now at 1:37 a.m.! We are praying for you all constantly. Gracie Girl, the whole gang misses you a ton and sends lots of love! Mr. Darcy is sleeping in my room at night and he snores almost as loud as Dad! Big hugs and many, many prayers! xoxo Mom for the whole gang
ReplyDeleteChris, we miss you, but are proud of the adventure you are on with God. Be safe; hearts are flying <3. We are praying for you and the team. Love, Mom, Dad and Lauren!
ReplyDeleteAnd we are so proud that all of YOU are the light of Christ also...a gentle touch, a smile, a hug, a listening ear, playing with a child, holding a distressed baby, helping an elderly person. Each of you show Christ's love to others as you do all these things. "You are the light of the world-like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden....let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." Matthew 5:14-16
ReplyDeleteGod's heart has a special place for the poor, the alien, the widow and the orphan. When we draw close to them we draw closer to Him. May the God of creation break your heart with what breaks His. On the Road, Rob
ReplyDeleteSuch a great update, Sarah to give us all a little idea of what you are experiencing! The prayers are continuing for the trip and that you won't forget what special children of Christ you each are!
ReplyDeleteHey You guys!! It's wonderful reading your blogs! Keep 'em coming as you are able! We read every word ya'll write and savor them. We love you and we pray for you that the peace of God is guarding your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. LOVE to you as you share His love with them! XOXOXO
ReplyDeleteSarah, I can picture holding that sweet little girl and praying for her. I see you and her in the very palm of the hand of God and it makes me teary-eyed. We are praying for you every day and 'Jamin even includes you and the team in our dinnertime prayers. We all love you so much. Mom, Dad, Jake, Beth and 'Jamin
ReplyDeleteJessica...just want you to know we are so proud of how you are taking that light of yours and sharing it with others! We pray for you and your team daily...not just for your safety but also that you are open to however God uses you even if you can't see it. We love and miss you terribly! Love you much baby girl! Love Mom and John
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