time at play

A couple weekends ago Tim and I jumped at the opportunity to visit a local orphanage, Avenir Enface. We spent time with children ages 8 to 15. We sang songs, listened to The Hungry Caterpillar, colored butterflies, and then played games, like Jenga and good 'ol ball tossin'. We both were impressed at how well-behaved the children were. They were simply delighted that we were there and excited for new friends to play. They loved the attention and, of course, welcomed the change in routine.

The man who runs the orphanage keeps it in tip-top shape. He has also expanded, adding sixteen more beds to house more children this summer. It is so humbling and inspiring to see the community reaching out to one another. We could have slept in, like we do most Saturdays. Yet, in the end, we came back more blessed and refreshed.

Then last Saturday I went to the Hospitality Center for the first time this outreach. Like last year, it is a housing facility run by Mercy Ships to accommodate patients who have traveled far and awaiting surgery, or patients who are post-op awaiting their follow-up appointment before returning home. I was quite surprised at the facility compared to the one last year. This one is so big with actual rooms! It is enclosed by a gated wall structure with a fairly large courtyard that serves as a play area for the children and a communal area for activities under an awning. The center has several rooms with four beds each that are air-conditioned. The eye team works out of the field here and there are a couple rooms for educational lessons for the school-aged children.

The facility was first built with the intentions for a maternity health center. When the ship came the building was not complete and vacant. We have temporarily bought it and helped to complete the building with windows and air-conditioning. I am so pleased to see such a nice facility that will be used for birthing mothers when the ship leaves.

The following day, Tim and I got to go with a group to help with YWAM's monthly ministry day. Here the neighborhood kids came to participate in outdoor activities. And we got to join in on the fun! Their favorites were blowing bubbles and playing under the parachute that we brought. Its amazing how such a simple household item of bubbles, is such a fascination here. After play, all the children sat on mats and listened to the story of Samuel and Eli, where Samuel obeys God's voice. They also learned a new memory verse. It reminded me so much of a typical VBS at home. Again, the children were loads of fun and so attentive. I must find out what secret these African mamas use to discipline their children. Cuz whatever they do, it works! :-)

It is during times like these that we learn the joy and value in giving of our time to others.