God Hears Our Prayers

What an amazing day again today.  We finished the installation of the ZipLine and platform; the kids love it.  There is a line that forms any time that the ZipLine ride is open; no height restrictions.  We have one little rider, Buh ran (sp.), who is the smallest of four brothers here; he is about two feet tall (well maybe a little taller).  He zips down with no fear in his heart, but with a smile on his face.  We also finished getting a first coat of paint on the playground equipment.  The staff is talking about putting up some type of plaque, and maybe planting two trees in honor of the work that has been accomplished this week.  According to anecdotal information, it is quite a significant statement of appreciation by the staff of the facility.  What an awesome God we serve.

Besides all that, God has allowed us to participate in so many memorable activities over the three days that we have served at the orphanage.  Every day that we arrive, there is a welcoming committee of eager faces to greet us and to give us hugs and kisses.  Without getting specific, God has definitely knitted some hearts together between the team and the orphans.  He has also answered our prayers, above and beyond what we could have expected.  We prayed before we came that God would enable us to go deeper with some of the children than we had opportunity last year.  I can't tell you how many children have opened up their hearts to us and told us part of their stories; particularly the adolescents.  Some truly amazing stories of heart break and pain inflicted by un-caring care givers, and just difficult family situations that have resulted in these children being placed in the care of an institution; a good institution for sure, but not a home.

We had prayed and hoped that we might this year have the opportunity to meet and talk with the young girls at the facility.  I don't know how, other than the magnificent and marvelous grace of God, but this year the young girls have opened up to all of us without reserve.  Yesterday, they spent time making friendship bracelets with the women on the team; it was a bonding experience.  Besides that, they designed some of their own patterns and stretched their own limits.  Today, the women on the team brought fingernail and toenail polish, of various colors and shades.  The young girls were so proud of their beautiful nails, and they sat around and talked girl-talk.  Quite amazing how our God can open hearts and provide opportunities.

It has all been exactly what we prayed for: (1) to go deeper with the children and to introduce them to the love of God in a greater way; and (2) to impact the young girls in a more definitive way.  All of that, plus completing some needed physical improvements, and some joyful, fun things to do at their home away-from-home.  Thank you God; we give you praise and honor, because you love us and you love these children.  Help us to move forward in ministry in your name.

Tomorrow, we have a celebration bar-b-que, at 5 pm.  We are looking forward to having a great meal with the children, and sharing some time with the facility administrators.  God, please continue to give us favor with all that we meet and greet in Your name.