When I woke up this morning the first image that came to mind was a seven year old girl with braids in her hair and freckles on her face, a dirty orange t-shirt and ripped jeans. This is the young girl who begged me for shoes yesterday. In Aguas Negras, an extremely poor community on the water, we went to hand out bags of food and clothes; but unfortunately we couldn’t give something to everyone. Seeing the despair and the want in these kids’ faces made us wish we could give the world to them. We realized how much we take for granted. This young girl asked for shoes (she had none on her scraped up feet) and a doll, while we get upset if we don’t have the newest generation of an iPod. Even though we didn’t see an immediate happy ending to this situation, we are confident that God has a plan for these children. This morning Leigh Ellen and I were struck by the lyrics of “Jesus Lover of My Soul” that say “Hide me oh my Savior hide until the storm is past, Safely to Thy haven guide, receive my soul at last.” Not only do these words speak to our own hearts, but they also apply to the hundreds of children we have seen so far. God has a plan for them, just as He does for you and me, and He has placed them in the circumstances they have. We are praying that we will be His instruments in these children’s lives and that they will see His love and Providence.
Ashley and Leigh Ellen
Ashley and Leigh Ellen
Hi Leigh Ellen and Margaret Anne,
ReplyDeleteIt is so good to read the blogs and see your pictures. Soak it all in, it is a rich, rewarding experience that doesn't come often. I know God will use this in your life to further God's purpose for you. We love you and miss you. Can't wait to see and hear all about it when you get home!
LeeAnne