Friday, June 27, 2008

Last Day

So this is the last day that we got to spend with the kids. Its crazy how much of a relationship you can develop even over the meager bit of time that we've gotten to spend with them. All of them were high-5'ing us and saying goodbye. There were tons of pictures taken, and hopefully a lot of the good ones will be posted on Steph's blog linked off to the right here.


Even with all of the parting ceremonies, today was still a really good day with them. It was very different from usual. Usually the day goes something like, we present two stories, sing 30 minutes worth of songs in English AND Hindi, and then play a couple of games with them. This time we presented one story and sang songs, but they did most of the entertaining.

They came up on stage and presented Bible verses and songs that they had memorized (complete with hand motions!), as well as performed a skit for us.

They did a classic skit about a man with a burden trying to find relief. First, he tried a palm reader, but at the end try as he might he was still left with the same burden. Then, he tried drinking it away with friends (don't worry, they used Coca-Cola), but still there was no help. Then he tried partying and dancing, but still nothing. Finally, some friends came and shared the gospel with him and relieved him of his burden.


I know I've shared this before, but the difference between the first day and the last has been amazing. After everything was said and done, they had an alter call and guided the kids through a prayer of salvation. In the next couple of weeks, after we are gone, they are going to continue to disciple the ones who want it.

Our host shared with us that they are going to continue this for the next couple of years if possible, because they see such amazing fruits from it each time.

One thing that I've noticed about being here, is that it doesn't seem like this is just a "mountain top" experience for these kids. These kids are serious and they really do long for the peace and love that is found in Christ. They show time and time again, through answers to questions and the way that they speak to us and others, that they remember what they have been taught. They seem to eat up each word that is spoken, each story that is shared.

1 comment:

jamesj said...

Aaron, thank you for sharing your photos and experiences thus far. It has informed my prayers for your trip.

It is interesting that you mention how quickly you can develop relationships with the people there, and how hard it is to say goodbye. The best piece of advice ever given me before my short term mission trips to Moldova, was to establish a life-long friendship with an individual. When a brother charged me with doing that before I went the first time, in my head I thought that would be impossible in a two week visit. Though I was doubtful, I remained open, and the Lord caused me to grow close to a dear brother who happened to be one of the only persons in the village who had a computer and occasional internet access. We are friends to this day.

Continuing to pray for your team.