For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.” – Ephesians 2:14-16
The past few weeks have been many things: joyful, exhausting, energizing, loving, educational, convicting and uncomfortable. From the food to the lack of sleep to the constant interaction, I have never felt so spent. However, it has been worth every moment of discomfort.
Today we went to a local school to teach and to bring joy to the students. As we stood in the courtyard dancing and singing together the Lord brought joy to my heart. We were able to give these children not only a wonderful day together, but a moment of true peace and hope.
The reason we were able to provide such a great day for these students was because of all the Ugandan young adults who were at the service camp. Every summer GOD Int’l puts on these week long service camps where students gather for connection, study and to serve the community. It was powerful to watch these young people come into their own as they taught, led dances and encouraged meaningful playtime.
A young woman named Liliann was one of these budding leaders that was in our service group. Before we taught the class she told me that she didn’t think the children would listen to her. “They only listen to mazungus (white people).” Ironically we were teaching Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength). I was able to tell her that the lesson we are teaching the children was for her too. God had given her all that she needed to be able to be a blessing to these children as she depended on Him.
Liliann killed it. She worked exceptionally hard and the children responded to her. As we debriefed on our way home I was able to share that the special thing that made me a capable teacher was in her too. We are both daughters of God.
She was convinced because she had experienced it herself. The lesson almost taught itself. Liliann knows that she is able to lead others. She feels confident in her position as a daughter of the King with all the responsibility and power that gives her.
She has not just inherited the benefits of the Kingdom, but also the purpose-filled responsibility. God has equipped her to bring good news to the poor. Now she knows it.
Often Americans think of our money and power as God’s gift to the world. God’s word teaches us that His people, brought together despite our differences, is the true gift. God has given us all we need to make a change for the widow, poor and children. It is each other.