Heart wide open…
Have you ever agreed to volunteer for something and had it turn out to be far different than you expected? I have…and today I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the blessing behind the curtain of work.
My past few days were spent at a christian camp for pre-teens. As I watched the preliminary required videos, read the packet of material and prepared for this I can honestly say that I was expecting to observe, help and simply be there for the kids as needed…little did I know that they would crack my heart wide open. So, here is my letter to a few of those children…I could go on for hours…
To the girl with the precious voice who fervently took notes during service, looking up scripture and journaling like crazy…thank you for reminding me, as a parent, that the seeds we sow make a lasting impression. I saw your hunger for truth and it revitalized my own. I was thrilled to meet your mother, and not at all surprised by her loving nature!
To the encouragers, I saw you, uplifting the girl who was down. You reminded me, as a woman, how incredibly important it is to lock arms with a tribe of women who are undoubtedly FOR you, see the real you, are unafraid to rebuke you in love, and relentless in speaking truth over you. Remember, kindness will ALWAYS be in style!
To the boys standing up with their arms reached high in praise to the Lord…thank you for your courage. We need the men of your generation to lead with roots planted deep in God’s word. You are so valuable…you have my respect and continued prayer! May you be filled with truth and divine protection as you answer His call and step out in the days and years to come.
To the girl who fell to her knees and wept in my arms…I felt your hurt deep in my soul. I admire your surrender to know your Healer and submit your deepest darkest wounds to Him. He has washed you white as snow and you are made new. It was an honor to love on you!
To all of you, thank you for showing up with such joy, honesty and, at times, difficult questions that need to be answered to walk with God in confidence. My focus was on serving you…yet the Lord used you to breathe new life into my heart. Thank you. May we thank the Lord together for the many ways he romances our hearts and draws us closer to Him.
Thank you Father for these children, and for this experience…for reminding me that I am still your precious baby girl- even in the midst of chaotic adult life.
~Angela (AKA “Wiggles”)
