The Chayah gates opened to us about 9:15am and to the children of the neighborhood area at 10. It was a slow trickle until we began about 11, but grew to about 125+. The whole program was organized and led by Chayah children and ran more smoothly than we could have done.
The language barrier was eliminated and new confidence formed as we supported what they had planned by holding infant siblings that had been carried in and clapped and danced to their music selections. Dann played the guitar for one familiar rendition of "Jesus Loves Me" and Micah jumped in to lead the dance moves in accompaniment.
The group was split into two according to age and the youngest ones escorted to the back veranda shade for a story taught by Melisa. Craft bags of fruit loops and string were handed out and everyone made edible necklaces. I'm not sure the crunchy sweet rings lasted past the exit gate, but they certainly enjoyed the process of making them.
The older group made rubber band jewelry and I suppose that that craze has somehow crossed international waters because very little instruction was needed. John taught the lesson on Abraham and Isaac.
There were skits by both Shalom and Little Stars and music performed by all. They really took ownership of this day's program and I think with a few helpers they could pull it off again without hesitation.
The littles were fed lunch while the older ones played a variety of games. Plates were washed and the groups traded locations until everyone was fed. The gospel of Jesus love and sacrifice was shared and the many smiling faces were excused. Most hung around for a bit, but eventually we were able to say good bye to those that remained.
Its an interesting and I think unsettling a bit to see the faces of the visitors as they sat inside the compound walls of Chayah for the first time. I wondered what they thought, prayed against the most logical reaction; that white people bring money and lots of fun things.
Its nearly as difficult to hide the color of our skin as it is to hide the love and support God has called us to here. Attempting to insure the distinction between mere foreigners and the God of the universe proves worthwhile, but often lost in translation. Food is provided to many while Muzungus are visiting. Very simple crafts for everyone show up along with American visitors and yet we come to share about Jesus, certainly not to confuse anyone about who is who.
Desperate lives look to solutions for suffering wherever they see them and confusion easily ensues when the gift overshadows the message of the "giver of all things.." How can compassion, service and love wrapped up in a game of jumprope or capture the flag be so easily misunderstood. Every attempt is purposeful and intended to glorify the one who has prompted every good work and provided every good gift.
We learn as we go, evaluate and adjust and pray that where ever we fall short, God's spirit will intercept or intervene and testify to everyone that there is only one Savior and his name is Jesus.
We are so very grateful for the chance to be here and for good health and a filling that has carried us. If you are looking for a way to pray for us, it would be for wisdom in making some pretty important decisions both for the ongoing best interest of the children and for the planning of our next phase. It is becoming more clear to us that additional staff will be needed and we are exceedingly particular about ensuring we follow God's lead and that he brings us his very best candidates. He is faithful and good, full of wisdom and love...we depend on it and he never disappoints.
Tomorrow crafts, games and a trip to the playground are on the agenda...but its Uganda so...well who knows!
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