Yesterday and today have been spent fine-tuning our plans for the mission trip. Our mission isn’t what most people picture when they hear “mission trip.” It isn’t directly evangelistic in nature, nor is it building houses, or providing medical care. Instead, we are providing childcare for European missionaries’ children while they enjoy a conference.
It is an annual event that most of these “third culture” kids look forward to. It is the only time they have to spend with kids in a similar situation to theirs. Not to mention, with just a larger group of English-speaking Christian kids.
Their families (14 of them) live their lives for the gospel all throughout Europe. As well as one family in Africa. There are 25 missionary kids that will be in our care while their parents are refreshed by encouraging teachings with other missionaries, much-needed time together, and rest.
Logistically speaking, it can be a daunting task to provide childcare and entertainment for 25 kids that we don’t know very well, who only see each other once a year, (plus 12 of our team’s own, for a total of 37). It is overwhelming to tend to these kids ages 1-18, for four days, in a foreign country with a foreign language, at a seaside resort that really isn’t built primarily for our large-scale, loud, boisterous, American way of executing such a thing. It is easy to be overwhelmed, cranky, or exhausted just thinking about it. So while we could explore verses about faith, or not tiring of doing good, or how Jesus came not to serve but to be served, we were actually reminded of something even better today.
Let the Children Come to Me
A sweet missionary woman, whose children we will be watching, starting today, refreshed us and encouraged us with these words from Jesus:
“One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so He could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering Him. When Jesus saw what was happening, He was angry with His disciples. He said to them, ‘Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” — Mark 10:13-15
This story was a timely reminder of how special children are to Jesus. They are not in the way, they are not a bother. They are loved and are a gift. Additionally, God wants to use them in mighty ways, whatever country they live in. In light of that, what a privilege it is to be here. We are so thankful, and feel so blessed to walk in faith at this opportunity.
Also, if we can provide not just entertainment, but fellowship for them – while the adults are also being filled up and restored physically and spiritually – then they will be invigorated to go back to their respective countries and share the love of Jesus all the more. We are truly honored, then, to play a small part in spreading the gospel throughout the world.
Please pray for us as our childcare work begins tonight. Pray that the families would be refreshed. And pray our team would have the energy to serve like the righteous who “gives and does not hold back.” (Proverbs 21:26)
Kim