Hi there. So, Brian has been gone for the past two days down in Portland on a mission trip with some of our youth from Mill Creek. Thus, I’m by myself. Yesterday as I literally walked through the front door there were about 6 little girls waiting on my porch to come in. How could I refuse them? So, I let them in. They did the usual routine and asked for a “bole” or a otter pop in which I said, “Well, not today.” I’m trying to be inconsistent in giving out treats so that the kids just don’t come for otter pops but for relationship as well.
While most of them were coloring one little girl found the tootsie pops we were given and screamed, “Oo Oo, can I have one? Please please please?” I gave one to her and then she ran out the door. 10 seconds later I look out the window with about 15 more kids running to my porch also wanting one. After handing out about 30 tootsie pops I said, “Ok, we’re all done for tonight. No mas. No more.” Around 20 kids remained in the house and as I was trying to manage them all I realized I can’t do this alone. I need to create a balance of what hospitality looks like when I am by myself at home vs. when both Brian and I are there. I become overwhelmed.
Please be in prayer that this will be seamless. When I turn down kids to create boundaries my heart keeps on wondering, “Have they eaten tonight? Will they eat today?” I need to get to know them better, to know their needs so that I can minister appropriately.
The night ended with 3 kids sitting on my couch asking me to read them some stories out of this book, (the kids Bible). We read about Joseph, Moses, and Jesus. We read about the miracles Jesus did and the kids said, “That can’t happen.” I said, “Well, I know I couldn’t do that by myself. But maybe God can. What do you think?” They replied, “I don’t know.”
Baby steps.
Michelle,
I identify with your situation here. This past year with Scarlet Cord has taught me a lot about boundaries. I have had to figure out the balance between giving “things” to people because people “need” things and giving things that are intangible and building relationships. My experiences have been with adult women in the Sex Industry and not with children but similar nonetheless. It’s hard because people need the intangible more than the physical but it’s harder to see ‘results.’ I have to remember to be patient because we are so used to immediate gratification. God is outside of time and one day can be just as important as one year or many many years. One act or one conversation (or story time) can be just as important as a lifetimes worth. Remember to take from your community too. It’s reciprocal relationship… what did you gain from spending time with the kids? What did they teach you that day? I love you! Have fun with life and love!
I’ve been so busy that I haven’t been able to read your blog entries till now. So, I’ve read all the one’s I’ve missed and I’m all “caught up”. I’m so happy that things are working out so well for you both at The Bluffs. I love hearing about your experiences and I’m especially impressed that you want to really get to know the people rather than seeing them as some spiritual project. Great job. When I have some time I’m going to double check my bookshelves for kids books. I have homeschooled for many years, but last year I gave away a lot and I’m not sure how much I still have that is fun for younger kids. Keep on going! You’re doing so great!
You guys are truly awesome! Your love for the community and the kids is inspiring. As you walk in obedience, God is going to continue to bless you.