Reminders

I had Preschool Church duty today.  This sentence might not mean much to you if you've never experienced Preschool Church before, so let me explain... Basically it means a room full of eighteen 4 and 5 year olds who you are meant to keep safe and under control while you seek to care for their basic needs and (hopefully) teach them a bit about the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  

I can honestly say that being able to serve in children's ministry is one of the greatest and most amazing privileges I have experienced as a member of Christ Redeemer Church.  It may sound strange, but in the midst of the potential chaos there is a hope, joy, and sincerity of faith in children that is inspiring and challenging.  As I was reveling in the blessing that is children's ministry this morning, I was reminded of another little preschooler that I met three years ago...

I met Magdala on my first day in Haiti three summers ago.  This sweet, fiesty, outgoing, affectionate child quickly wiggled her way into my heart.  Her story is like so many other children in Haiti.  She was an abandoned, orphaned, neglected, malnourished, and apparently forgotten child.  This was the story of Magdala until she found a new life at the Christian Light Children's Home.  Her physical needs are met each day and she is flourishing. 

The thing that strikes me in particular about Magdala is the joy she has in knowing Jesus.  Before she could speak any other words in English, she was able to sit with me that first summer and sing "Jesus Loves Me" with all of her heart.  What I saw then was a loved, chosen, redeemed, cherished, accepted, and always remembered child of the King.  

I am very much looking forward to traveling back to Haiti in less than two weeks.  I am excited to see Magdala and all the other children and hear how God is working in their lives.  I am so thankful for this opportunity and the privelege I have to be able to share with you all what God is doing in His body in Haiti.  Many, many thanks to my friends, family, and church family for your prayers and encouragement and for following along with me on this journey! Love in Christ, Jessie