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The Picture That Sums Up Children's Ministry

This picture has quickly become a favorite of mine. I laugh hysterically every time I look at it -- the rather pathetic part was it was taken about 24 hours ago, and I have spent most my time since then laughing at it! Honestly, I can't tell you what was going through my mind, and what I'm sure then spewed out of my mouth a split second after it was taken. I'm sure I was being smart, as I was swimming in a sea of sweaty kids that continued to kiss my cheek, ruffle my hair, and I don't know all (nor do I want to know with all that germ transference). But something happened to trigger my classic sassy look to who knows which kid that surrounded me.
This picture pretty much captures my life. Whenever anyone says, "a picture is worth a thousand words," I generally respond, "yeah, but the guy who said that used words to say it..." (did I mention I'm sassy?). But here is this picture -- summing up my life, better than any words I could ever write, in one neat snapshot. Redheaded sassy-pants surrounded by kids.
Not only does this picture describe my life, but it sums up children's ministry so beautifully. Children's ministry is loving kids unconditionally because Christ first loved us -- even when that means loving the "tough kids". It's willing to act silly, wear something ridiculous, and laugh at your own stupid jokes (because then you may get a kid to laugh at it too). Children's ministry is endless high-fives, fist bumps, hugs and kisses. It's a lesson of Christ's love in a crazy game that you pray no one gets hurt during. Children's ministry is the chance to teach your favorite stories from the Bible. It's having your thought out lesson plan thrown out the window because a group of curious kids are asking amazing questions about Jesus, and even though they are not fully "on topic" you know you can't miss this chance to teach His truths. Children's ministry is crazy, energetic, and so important! I recently listened to a sermon about raising children in a Christian home. The pastor made a comment about children's ministry that made me so sad for him. He said, "Churches don't need a babysitter." Those who think children's ministry is babysitting have never served, and my heart hurts for them because it is so much more than babysitting, but rather investing all you have to make Christ the center of the next generation.
I love that God has called me into children's ministry. Over the years, it has taken on so many forms -- children's church, VBS, after school programs, orphan work. And only God knows what He plans as I venture to Karamoja, but I know He will use my love and passion for children to make His name known among them.
I am also so thankful to have the opportunity to serve these kids -- the children of New Heart. They have taught me so much, and I hope that as they grow up, they cling to the truths we have poured (and will continue to pour once I leave -- because I am just one piece of this ministry) into them. This picture came about because I had shared with the entire church an update on my departure. I am so close to leaving, it has been on everyone's mind and a pretty constant subject. After we finished our lesson, we were talking to the kids about my leaving. One girl, that I have a rather strong bond with (and I am proud of it because that girl use to scream at me when she was a baby!!!), stood up, marched herself over to me, and wrapped her arms around my waist. I ended up kneeling down, as we continued to hug. Slowly, other kids came to join in on the hug. The next thing I know, I am in the middle of the biggest group hug I have ever had the pleasure of being in! I was so thankful someone thought to grab a camera and snap some pictures! They all crack me up, but none as much at the beginning of this blog.
Here are a couple more. I don't know if they are nearly as entertaining when you don't know the kids like I do, but has that ever stopped me from sharing things? Nor will it in the future...
"Okay everyone, point to Miss Mary" somehow turned into "touch her face and play with her hair" I think they liked trying to touch my nose ring, because it's exciting

Seriously... the biggest group hug EVER

This one makes me laugh because I kind of look like a giant floating head...


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