That Moment...

Think about "that moment"...that moment when you feel a certain relief, that moment when you know the effort was worth it, that moment when you feel that indescribably joy, that moment when you know something amazing is happening...

THAT moment...

That moment that makes you smile uncontrollably, that moment that brings tears to your eyes, that moment that takes your breath away...

That MOMENT...

That moment when you hear the bubbly giggle of a child, that turns into a bright smile, and transforms into a hearty, joyful laugh. That moment when you feel the pure joy of that laughter, when that laughter makes you want to laugh out loud and cry all at the same time...

This was my moment...riding on a pink elephant in the middle of Colombia. And for that moment, the world stopped and time stood still. That joy, that smile, that laughter...that little girl melted my heart.  Two years ago that little girl-my precious Daniela-stole my heart in a letter, and 2 weeks ago, she melted my heart as we spent the day together.  Sitting on that elephant ride, seeing her joy and hearing her laughter brought tears to my eyes, and I thought to myself, "this is it, THIS is what it's all about..."

This little girl, this tiny little 8 year old blew my world away.  Her excitement to show me her family photo and give me a gift was beyond precious. Her gratitude when receiving her own gifts and the tears in her eyes when I gave her gifts for her family nearly broke my heart.

I knew this little girl was special, I just didn't know how special until I held her in my arms.  God knew what He was doing when He told me to click that "sponsor" button.  I am blessed beyond my wildest dreams and nothing can replace that moment...

Out of the Miry Clay

I arrived home yesterday from the beautiful country of Colombia.  I can honestly say I left part of my heart there.  With my 2 beautiful girls, of course, but also with the hundreds of wonderful children we met throughout the week. The stories we were told were simply amazing.  The hearts of the children and young adults in and out of the Compassion program were indescribable.  

I was struck by the deep need of the children and families of CO341. I was amazed at the four floors of classrooms at the project and how they make do with the conditions they have.  Yet the heart and desires of the students and their tutors could bring a smile to anyone's face that would light up the whole world.  The excitement and sincerity during worship and the companionship during free time proves that the hand of God is on this place.  Our group spent the day with these children and visited the homes of three families.  The conditions of the town and the homes make you wonder how they even survive, yet they are happier than most Americans.  The joy of the Lord was so evident in this place of devastation.  In the middle of the drug trade and violence there was peace.  In the middle of poverty there was hope.  I could see it on the faces of the children--on the face of the mother who prays for her lost son, and rejoices for her prodigal who has come home.   I could see it in the eyes of the pastor who has been threatened and ridiculed yet spoke at the funeral of the man who brought on the most difficulty.  This place was special.  In the midst the danger, drugs, and all the demons of this world sits a shining light. A beacon in the darkness.  Beauty out of the miry clay.  These children have hope.  They have the hope and love of Jesus Christ and their sponsors.  But not all of them have sponsors, someone to love them, write to them, and show them that they are special, cherished, and created for a purpose that only they can fulfill according to God's promise.

Camilo

Camilo is 10 years old.  His birthday is April 3rd.  His father is in prison and his mother has to work to support the family.  He runs errands and cleans at home.  He enjoys soccer, telling stories, and playing group games.  

I remember seeing Camilo at the project, he was hanging back toward the end of the day.  I don't have any photos of him, but he stuck in my memory so I had to bring his packet home with me.  He needs the love of a sponsor, someone to show him he really matters.

Luisa

Luisa is 8 years old.  Her birthday is August 2nd.  She lives with her mother, father, and 2 siblings. Her father is sometimes employed and her mother stays home.  She makes beds and cleans at home.  Luisa enjoys playing with dolls, bicycling, and reading.

I don't recall seeing Luisa at the project the day we were there, however, it is possible I just didn't recognize her if she has grown since this photo.  Her darling little face just begged me to bring her home and do what I could to find her a sponsor.

Please let me know if you are interested in sponsoring one or both of these beautiful children who have hope, but need the love and encouragement of a sponsor. 

He lifted me out the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire.  He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.  Psalm 40:2

Let the Adventure Begin!

Many of you know I have been planning a trip to Colombia-my Facebook friends could likely tell you my countdown as quickly as I could.  I am so blessed to be able to take this trip in April rather than October.  I don't know if I could stand the wait to hug my girls if I wasn't leaving in 32 hours!  Sara and Daniela have sent me the sweetest letters a sponsor could ask for! They are always full of love and spiritual wisdom! Yes, these young girls have taught me a thing or two about faith and hope in Jesus Christ!

Daniela                                    Sara

As I prepare to leave for my trip, I feel so anxious and excited, yet a little nervous.  This is my second trip with Compassion so I feel that I know a little of what to expect, yet it's a whole different country and two totally different children! I know I'm supposed to be on this trip, God has place these two girls in my life for a reason.  I asked both of my girls to pray that someday we would meet.  By now, they should know that I am coming and will spend the whole day on Saturday with them.  Sara wrote me back very emphatic about supporting that prayer and her dream of visiting a wilderness park will be met as well!  I pray that everything will go smoothly and that all of us sponsors will have a blessed visit with our children and the many other children and families we will come in contact with. Let this amazing adventure begin!