His Kids

I volunteer in the nursery, spend time with the older kids at the Children’s Home, and co-lead two after-school music and art clubs at the JCCV with my friend, Claire Friesen. Upon completing a year of college, I came to the Children’s Home in early October and plan to return to Virginia at the end of April. I am grateful to KIM for taking me on as I am, without a degree or any special qualifications other than my desire to love and serve. I knew, even before I came here, that these seven months were God’s gift to me, a time to learn and grow.

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My time here has proven to be just that—a gift—with days rich and full of challenges. The work being done here is painfully necessary: bringing food to flood victims, bathing street children, giving sickly babies another chance at life…and there is indescribable joy in doing it.

Every one of the kids at the Children’s Home has lived through loss and pain that's beyond my experience. They’ve been deprived of the sweetness of childhood, the comfort of resting in a mother’s arms, the thrill of riding high and kinglike on the shoulders of an awesome dad.

Some days I struggle to show each child the love they deserve. I want to be everything to them—mother, father, sister, brother. I want to hold them tight so that they know I’m there. I want to race across the yard to them when they cry so that they don't have to wonder for a second if anyone cares that they're hurt.

One of the lessons I’m learning is to trust God’s care for these kids. He is the one who holds them secure. He has a plan for each one, and despite the darkness that’s touched their lives, these kids are thriving.

I love the sudden smile that breaks across Christian’s face, Paulo’s half-scared pride on the monkey bars, Zerena’s crazy-crayon flowers, Princess’ funny dances and warbling songs. I love Maricel for her grace and calm; meeting my eyes at times when I’m exasperated—caught between two kids toddling in opposite directions—she just smiles, offers her hand and walks with me.

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The sights of Cris John and Kenth scampering across the grass after the visiting cats, of Tyra’s fascination with butterflies, of Yuki’s first wavering steps, and little Alex’s independence as she asserts her personhood and speaks her first words are all a delight. These kids are incredible. They never fail to fill my heart with wonder.

I am so thankful for my time here—for the friendships, the welcome, and the shy kids who have finally given me their trust. I’ve never had the opportunity to stop everything and just care for people before. That’s my only duty in these seven months—to be available to obey God and love His children. I know I’ll refer to these months for the rest of my life. God is blessing me richly. I’ve found a wealth of grace and joy that I know I’ll draw strength from and carry with me wherever I go.

-Hannah Cranston