sweet ministry moments

In January, Maple Springs started a new ministry for our 4th and 5th graders.  To be completely honest, I was slightly intimidated by the age group but over the past few months I've come to love being with them.  We've spent many Sunday nights learning about the importance of loving and serving others.

In one of our first meetings, we talked about ways we could spend time serving our community and our church.  They really had some good ideas!  One of my favorites was that they wanted to go to the UMAR home and spend some time.  I loved it and made sure to get that one our calendar.

This past Sunday we had the opportunity to go to the Hooper Home and spend some time with the ladies that live there.  I must admit- I was a little anxious about taking 4th and 5th graders into their home.  When we left the church to make the short drive to their home, the girls were so full of energy it was crazy.  They just couldn't contain themselves- they were beyond excited.

As we got to the house, they jumped out of the car and ran up to the door (they didn't need any of us adults).  They introduced themselves to the girls and immediately were at ease.  I was amazed.  Within 20 minutes, all of the girls were laughing and talking like they had known each other forever.

We spent the first part of our visit making individual pizzas.  This was enjoyed by all and they smelled delicious.

One of my 4th graders suggested that we make God's eyes, so while our pizzas were being made, she lead us in that activity.  All of the girls sat around and worked together.  It was beautiful.

We finished the evening eating pizzas and playing bingo!

I have been serving in ministry for 7 years and I have never witnessed anything like I did Sunday evening.  I left that home so filled.  I was so amazed at the sweet ladies that lived there.  They welcomed us, complete strangers, into their homes with open arms.  They loved on us and treated us like they had known us forever.  We laughed and laughed and laughed.  As we were preparing to leave they asked me several times to please bring the girls back.  I promised I would.

Sweet friends. 

There are many things I can choose to do with my 4th and 5th graders on Sunday evenings.  There are many lessons I can teach- many scriptures to be read.  But there is nothing like taking them out and letting them experience what it is to be loved and what it feels like to love others.  I do not think they will forget this experience for years to come.  I do believe it will be something that shapes them.  I am thankful for the opportunity for my kids to see a glimpse of the Kingdom-what a blessing.