Martha Ann aka "Michelangela"
She discovered a hidden talent of painting
Once we finished painting the guest house we had some free time to relax before the afternoon festivities. The children had been practicing all week for the anniversary celebration for the school. Families and children packed the stands at the school's outdoor play court. The students preformed skits, dances, and we sang along to songs (well, attempted...they were in Spanish). We were able to interact with so many children and gave out tons more candy! There was an adorable little girl who walked up to me while I was sitting and watching the skits. I smiled and said hello and she sat down next to me. I knew she was eyeing the suckers I had in my hand! I gave her a few and she got up and walked away. I figured that was it. But then she came back. This time she sat closer to me and tried to talk. Her name is Miriam and she is three-years-old. Same age as my daughter, Kaitlin. She was outgoing and sweet just like Kaitlin, too. At one point she reached up and grabbed my cross necklace. I said "Jesus" and she repeated it. She sat with me and watched the dancing and skits for a little while longer before getting up again. However, it wasn't long before she came back. Each time she came back to sit with me, she would get closer. This time she was leaning over my lap enjoying her sucker as she watched the performances. She would turn and look at me or hold my hand occasionally. It melted my heart. Her clothes were soiled and wet and and her hair got stickier and stickier with every sucker I gave her! But it didn't matter. I saw an adorable little girl with whom I was able to share my love. I wasn't able to communicate well with her because our translator wasn't able to make out what she was saying since she still had her "baby voice" as Gabby called it. Regardless of the lack of verbal communication, I was able to love, hug, and hold Miriam.
Meet Miriam.
The adorable 3-year-old that I wanted to bring home with me!
After we left the school celebration, we had dinner and then headed to the midweek church service at the church on the farm. We stood and clapped and I attempted to sing the songs, all in Spanish of course. I notice the drummer of the band was one of the boys that was on my team during Oansa. He stuck out on Tuesday night because he sang all the songs so enthusiastically and seemed so eager to learn his bible verses. He nailed everything when he was quizzed. I was impressed then, and even more so seeing him on stage playing the drums with the adult musicians!
The upbeat music began to slow down and instead of hands clapping, they were raised in worship. I couldn't tell you what the song was about or even tell you one word I sung and probably incorrectly pronounced. What I can tell you is that God was in that room. I closed my eyes, raised my hands, and worshiped Him. I felt His presence and the emotions and gratitude began to flow. I was so thankful and humbled that He would allow me to be there, with those people, and join in worshiping our God. It was amazing.
Then it was Grober's time to speak. I think Laura timed it to 13 minutes (correct me if I'm wrong). Many of the children had fallen asleep during the hour and half singing. Although it didn't seem to matter that the music was in Spanish, I was thankful that Grober had decided to preach in English, while Gabby translated for everyone else. He spoke about trusting God. One consequence was that you would miss out on what God had in store for you if you didn't trust Him. Peru was evidence of that. I didn't know what was in store for me or our group prior to leaving. I didn't know how God would use me or even if He could. I was scared to leave my kids for that long and to be that far away. But I trusted God. Had I not, I would have missed out on this life changing experience.
Grober speaking while Gabby translates
a lesson i hope i never forget!
ReplyDelete