Joshua and I helped out at a 'childrens camp' for orphan children in northern Thailand. About one hundred children came from about 8 'childrens homes' to the camp. Most of them are from the 'Red tribe' of the Lahu Hilltribe. The children were mostly aged from 11 to 14 - but some were younger and there were older ones as well.
The time with them really broke my heart as they were so needing love. Every bit of attention we gave them caused them to stick with us like glue.
The different homes sang such beautiful 'songs of worship' that they had been taught.
The boys loved to play games such as 'ping pong', badminton, and soccer.
These children need love - as they have lost loved ones, family, and all they ever knew. Sometimes they would just sit and stare into space - until you smiled at them or spoke to them then their faces would just 'light up'.
Jesus needs to be 'our life'. It takes denying 'our self' and continuing on as Christians through every trial, difficultly, and circumstances. To have Jesus 'shine' through us to the poor, the lonely, and the lost, is what He desires. He lives in us.
When we first arrived at the camp I thought that I wouldn't be able to do all He wanted me to do. But I felt His love for the children - and it flowed so easy - but I had to be willing to be used of Him.
Joshua had so many boys follow him around - and everywhere Joshua went, they went. It truly was good to see the Lord using Joshua.
Blessings,
Mark
