Our culture today labels many things as being “urgent.”
Commercials tell us we must “act now” or we’ll miss out on the amazing offer. At work we are told to get something done “ASAP.” Even our food is urgent – if we can’t get through the drive-through lane in less than five minutes, we’re appalled.
But when we hear about the plight of orphaned and vulnerable children around the world, do we feel the same sense of urgency? We might be concerned, but are we moved to do something about it right now?
Sometimes it’s easy to assume that acting now - versus a week from now - won’t make much of a difference in correcting such a huge problem. With over 143 million orphans in the world, the problem is still going to be there next week…next month…next year…right?
But that’s not the Godly perspective. As Compassion International CEO Dr. Wess Stafford tells in his book, Too Small to Ignore: Why the Least of These Matters Most, the number of children in need in our world is worthy of immediate attention.
“Statistics…can overwhelm us. We become paralyzed by the sheer magnitude of the problem…But do you remember the shock and heartache you felt when you watched the World Trade Center towers crumble to the streets of New York, taking nearly three thousand innocent lives with them?
Now imagine with me for a moment. What if a catastrophe of equal devastation had happened at noon, just three hours later, at the Sears Tower in Chicago… then Denver… then Los Angeles… then Honolulu… Tokyo… Bangkok… Calcutta… Moscow… finally London – the world would have shuddered to a grinding halt, never to be the same again.
Well, something similar did happen on a worldwide scale that tragic day. Thirty thousand of our little innocents under age five were taken from us. Sadly, this level of loss also happened on September 10 and September 12 and every single day since. The microphones, cameras and satellite dishes don’t bring this shocking reality into our living rooms as they did on 9/11. But it happens nonetheless.” (pages 3-4)
In Matthew 25, Jesus tells us that we are to feed the hungry, clothe the naked and care for the sick. He also tells us that “whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.”
In other words, God wants us to act. Not tomorrow. Not next week. Right now.
And here’s the good news: there are dozens of ways you can help those in need – and you can start today! His Little Feet encourages you to (be in on it) by GIVING, SPONSORING, GOING or ADOPTING. You can find out more about these and other opportunities at www.hislittlefeet.org.
Don’t wait until later to answer God’s call to care for the broken, sick and hungry. There are millions of children in need of help today - now is the time for us to respond with urgency.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
Haiti
The entire His Little Feet staff had the privilege of traveling to Haiti about two weeks ago with the choir children as they returned home from their tour of the United States. It was a memorable time for all. One of our staff members, Brooke, reflects on the experience and the closing moments of the first His Little Feet choir.
What an honor it was to be able to bring the children home to Haiti- to see the place they call home and to meet all the people they hold dear. Hope for Haiti Children’s Center is just that- as soon as you walk through the gate, you see hope. This place the children call home is a haven, a place where the Lord is working in the midst of hopelessness.
It was such a blessing to see the excitement of the children as we eagerly awaited the vans to pull into the compound. We rejoiced in the gasps of joy and excitement as all 15 children piled as quickly as possible out of the vans to greet everyone they hadn’t seen in almost 7 months. It was without a doubt a joyous reunion! Tears, hugs, and stories abounded!
The children had their last His Little Feet performance on their home soil in Haiti. As they sang the song “Blessed Be Your Name” the lyrics, “You give and take away, You give and take away, my heart will choose to say, Lord, blessed be Your name,” rang in my ears. Oh, what a privilege He has given to each of us- traveling with all 15 of these children. And as, in a sense, He has taken them away from us, I know my heart and many others touched by these precious ones will forever more choose to say, “Lord, blessed be Your name.”
After 6 days in Haiti quickly passed, the time came to say our goodbyes. It was a special time- everyone knowing what was looming before us. Right before it was time for us to leave, each of the Aunties and Uncles tried to express with words how dear the children were and how honored we had been that the Lord chose to place each of them in our lives. Also, we shared how incredibly proud we were of them as well as sharing words of encouragement and wisdom as the Lord led. It was a bittersweet time- a time I shall not forget, a time overflowing with His blessings and His faithfulness.
Thank You Jesus!
Serving Him with you,
Auntie Brooke
What an honor it was to be able to bring the children home to Haiti- to see the place they call home and to meet all the people they hold dear. Hope for Haiti Children’s Center is just that- as soon as you walk through the gate, you see hope. This place the children call home is a haven, a place where the Lord is working in the midst of hopelessness.
It was such a blessing to see the excitement of the children as we eagerly awaited the vans to pull into the compound. We rejoiced in the gasps of joy and excitement as all 15 children piled as quickly as possible out of the vans to greet everyone they hadn’t seen in almost 7 months. It was without a doubt a joyous reunion! Tears, hugs, and stories abounded!
The children had their last His Little Feet performance on their home soil in Haiti. As they sang the song “Blessed Be Your Name” the lyrics, “You give and take away, You give and take away, my heart will choose to say, Lord, blessed be Your name,” rang in my ears. Oh, what a privilege He has given to each of us- traveling with all 15 of these children. And as, in a sense, He has taken them away from us, I know my heart and many others touched by these precious ones will forever more choose to say, “Lord, blessed be Your name.”
After 6 days in Haiti quickly passed, the time came to say our goodbyes. It was a special time- everyone knowing what was looming before us. Right before it was time for us to leave, each of the Aunties and Uncles tried to express with words how dear the children were and how honored we had been that the Lord chose to place each of them in our lives. Also, we shared how incredibly proud we were of them as well as sharing words of encouragement and wisdom as the Lord led. It was a bittersweet time- a time I shall not forget, a time overflowing with His blessings and His faithfulness.
Thank You Jesus!
Serving Him with you,
Auntie Brooke
Monday, June 6, 2011
A Celebration
It wasn’t that long ago when it looked like the 2010-2011 His Little Feet tour wouldn’t even happen.
Mike and Christa had spent weeks in Haiti trying to secure the temporary release of the 15 children. There were countless obstacles in the way, and every twist and turn seemed to present a new reason why the tour simply might not be possible.
But we all kept praying, as did the children. And we all continued to trust that God was in control and would orchestrate things for good.
Well, God was true to His promise. In mid-November of 2010, the 15 precious children from Haiti arrived to Colorado. Since that day, these children have experienced, learned and taught us more than we could fit in a dozen blog posts. But a quick list would include:
- Performing in over 50 churches across the country
- Completing the His Little Feet discipleship program
- Diligently studying in English and French
- Attending Art Camp and Sports Camp
- Graduating from the His Little Feet Life Training Academy
- And, most importantly, growing in their faith and walk with the Lord
On Thursday, May 26, the His Little Feet team celebrated the conclusion of an amazing, blessing-filled year at the first annual End of Year Banquet.
During this heart-warming evening, Mike and Christa, as well as all of the on-the-road staff members (Aaron, Brooke, Carrie, James, Jennifer and Rachel) shared some of the incredible (and hilarious) moments they experienced on tour. The team thanked the countless people who volunteered their time to make the tour a success.
Members from sister organizations, including Compassion International and America World Adoption, were in attendance as well, marking a powerful year in partnership that resulted in over 500 children being sponsored, 50 families pursuing adoption and over 50 individuals going on an overseas missions trip. Praise God!
But, as usual, the stars of the show were the 15 children from the His Little Feet Children’s Choir. Each table had the pleasure of interacting with one of the children, who told of their favorite experiences from their time in the U.S.
And before the night was through, Pastor Eric Ludy commissioned the children, praying that God would continue to work in their lives and use each of them to further His name in their home country and around the world.
What a phenomenal celebration to end a year that started with so many challenges! God truly does use difficult times to show us how faithful and good He is.
Last week, the 15 children returned home to Haiti with much celebration (and a few tears). But we know that this is not goodbye, and we look forward to seeing how God uses each of their unique personalities and talents to impact the world.
To all of you who prayed for, supported, hosted and encouraged us this past year, we sincerely thank you.
And to Moise, Loudrige, Likendley, Nephthalie, Ederson, Falencia, Johnson, Djoulie, Cassandra, Francia, Jefferson, Daphney, Kesnel, Esterline and Dianelie – the amazing kids of His Little Feet – thank you and we love you. We will never forget you or the work God has accomplished through you.
You have reminded us that, when we trust in Him with all our hearts, He will make our footsteps firm – no matter how “little” those footsteps might be.
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
– Isaiah 52:7
Mike and Christa had spent weeks in Haiti trying to secure the temporary release of the 15 children. There were countless obstacles in the way, and every twist and turn seemed to present a new reason why the tour simply might not be possible.
But we all kept praying, as did the children. And we all continued to trust that God was in control and would orchestrate things for good.
Well, God was true to His promise. In mid-November of 2010, the 15 precious children from Haiti arrived to Colorado. Since that day, these children have experienced, learned and taught us more than we could fit in a dozen blog posts. But a quick list would include:
- Performing in over 50 churches across the country
- Completing the His Little Feet discipleship program
- Diligently studying in English and French
- Attending Art Camp and Sports Camp
- Graduating from the His Little Feet Life Training Academy
- And, most importantly, growing in their faith and walk with the Lord
On Thursday, May 26, the His Little Feet team celebrated the conclusion of an amazing, blessing-filled year at the first annual End of Year Banquet.
During this heart-warming evening, Mike and Christa, as well as all of the on-the-road staff members (Aaron, Brooke, Carrie, James, Jennifer and Rachel) shared some of the incredible (and hilarious) moments they experienced on tour. The team thanked the countless people who volunteered their time to make the tour a success.
Members from sister organizations, including Compassion International and America World Adoption, were in attendance as well, marking a powerful year in partnership that resulted in over 500 children being sponsored, 50 families pursuing adoption and over 50 individuals going on an overseas missions trip. Praise God!
But, as usual, the stars of the show were the 15 children from the His Little Feet Children’s Choir. Each table had the pleasure of interacting with one of the children, who told of their favorite experiences from their time in the U.S.
And before the night was through, Pastor Eric Ludy commissioned the children, praying that God would continue to work in their lives and use each of them to further His name in their home country and around the world.
What a phenomenal celebration to end a year that started with so many challenges! God truly does use difficult times to show us how faithful and good He is.
Last week, the 15 children returned home to Haiti with much celebration (and a few tears). But we know that this is not goodbye, and we look forward to seeing how God uses each of their unique personalities and talents to impact the world.
To all of you who prayed for, supported, hosted and encouraged us this past year, we sincerely thank you.
And to Moise, Loudrige, Likendley, Nephthalie, Ederson, Falencia, Johnson, Djoulie, Cassandra, Francia, Jefferson, Daphney, Kesnel, Esterline and Dianelie – the amazing kids of His Little Feet – thank you and we love you. We will never forget you or the work God has accomplished through you.
You have reminded us that, when we trust in Him with all our hearts, He will make our footsteps firm – no matter how “little” those footsteps might be.
How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”
– Isaiah 52:7
Monday, May 23, 2011
Blessed Be Your Name
Uncle Aaron is one of the wonderful student interns we had this year with His Little Feet. Aaron worked as our main sound technician, loaded and unloaded our equipment, cared for the boys in host homes, and served in any other way that was asked of him. Our desire is for the Lord to speak to you through what Aaron shares below about a meaningful time in our tour.
“Blessed be the Name of the Lord...Blessed be Your Name”
This song brings to remembrance many experiences in the last year of my life, but two of the most significant moments have been while on tour with these 15 incredible children.
The first time I heard the children worshiping, apart from concert time and time spent in the Church at Ellerslie, was early in the tour back on campus at Ellerslie. I walked into the two-story dorm the kids call home here in the US and I immediately heard a sweet and powerful sound coming from what we call the “book nook” upstairs: children singing at the top of their lungs. At first, I didn't know why they were singing, or even what they were singing in Creole, but after a few minutes of listening I heard a song in English that I recognized... “Blessed Be Your Name”.
Now, I've heard this song hundreds of times in many different situations, but to me this time was completely different from any other instance. This time the singing was coupled with tears from 15 young Haitian hearts crying out to the God who rescued them from tough times in their past and has now given them the opportunity to be a voice for millions across the world. Curiosity led me up the stairs in the dorm to witness this moving time of worship firsthand. I found that the worship time was officially led by Francia (one of our incredible chaperones from Haiti) but was also contributed to by all, even our youngest little boy, Johnson. I looked around the book nook at these 15 kids all singing at the top of their lungs- some with tears streaming down their cheeks and some with their faces on the ground in reverence and passionate love to our Jesus. I had never seen anything like it before in my life. It was then that the song “Blessed Be Your Name” took on a deeper, more personal meaning for me.
As I listened to the words they sang I was moved beyond words. To hear these children (many of whom have lost very dear loved ones at a very young age) singing: “...You give and take away...my heart will choose to say...Lord, blessed be your name...” rocked me to tears. It was truly a life-changing moment for me...and those moments just kept on coming!
Another moment that really sticks out to me on tour is when we were in South Carolina in late March and we received the news that one of the Mamis who these kids have known and grown up with at the children's home in Haiti had suddenly passed away. We had decided to tell the kids after a Saturday evening concert, right before one of our most hectic Sundays on tour- the Sunday when Mike and Christa were flying out to Ethiopia to select the kids for next year's choir.
As you could imagine, the kids were incredibly heartbroken to hear the news of their dear Mami and friend passing away and that night was filled with many tears and memories. The next day we had 3 morning concerts at one location and one evening concert at another church. I don't think any of us as staff knew what to expect from the kids. Would they be able to smile and be joyful on stage? Or would they break down at every thought of this dear one they missed so much? Would they be comforted by the thought of their Mami basking in the glory of our great Lord? All we could do was be there for the kids and pray that Jesus would receive glory for all that was to come of this.
We continued with the concerts and the kids did quite well with the morning performances. The Lord had sure performed a great work! But what impacted me most from that Sunday was the evening concert. The day was long and tiring and was wearing on us all and with Mike and Christa gone, the responsibilities had been doubled for many of us. But oh, our God's grace is so sufficient and his love is so good!
That night I watched as the Holy Spirit came upon the kids in power at that small church in South Carolina. I watched as their faces were illuminated by the love of our Great King. I stood back in tears and in awe when the kids all started that powerful song once more: “Blessed be the name of the Lord...you give and take away...my heart will choose to say...Lord, blessed be your name!” Oh what unexplainable joy and emotion filled the room when those words rang out! It seemed as if all of the children had just touched the hem of Jesus' garment and had been relieved from the pain and aching they were experiencing and were filled with the life-changing joy of knowing that Jesus had saved them from a lifetime of hurt and confusion. I was struck speechless, as were nearly all in the room as we watched the glory of the Lord descend upon the faces of 15 children worshiping their Savior.
After the concert nearly every person there came up to me and said that they had never seen such a powerful presentation and display of Christ's heart for his children, and all I could say was: “Neither had I!” The Lord had proven himself faithful and true once again, even in the hardest of circumstances! As I began to tear down the set, James walked back into the room having come from greeting many of those who had witnessed the concert, and we both just stared at each other with tears in our eyes-speechless after having experiencing what took place that night. The only words we could say were “Oh Jesus! You are so good!”
How can we keep from blessing your name, oh Jesus?
Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name
Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name
Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name!
- Matt Redman
Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!
-Psalm 72:19
...The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
-Job 1:21b
Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
-Matthew 18:3
“Blessed be the Name of the Lord...Blessed be Your Name”
This song brings to remembrance many experiences in the last year of my life, but two of the most significant moments have been while on tour with these 15 incredible children.
The first time I heard the children worshiping, apart from concert time and time spent in the Church at Ellerslie, was early in the tour back on campus at Ellerslie. I walked into the two-story dorm the kids call home here in the US and I immediately heard a sweet and powerful sound coming from what we call the “book nook” upstairs: children singing at the top of their lungs. At first, I didn't know why they were singing, or even what they were singing in Creole, but after a few minutes of listening I heard a song in English that I recognized... “Blessed Be Your Name”.
Now, I've heard this song hundreds of times in many different situations, but to me this time was completely different from any other instance. This time the singing was coupled with tears from 15 young Haitian hearts crying out to the God who rescued them from tough times in their past and has now given them the opportunity to be a voice for millions across the world. Curiosity led me up the stairs in the dorm to witness this moving time of worship firsthand. I found that the worship time was officially led by Francia (one of our incredible chaperones from Haiti) but was also contributed to by all, even our youngest little boy, Johnson. I looked around the book nook at these 15 kids all singing at the top of their lungs- some with tears streaming down their cheeks and some with their faces on the ground in reverence and passionate love to our Jesus. I had never seen anything like it before in my life. It was then that the song “Blessed Be Your Name” took on a deeper, more personal meaning for me.
As I listened to the words they sang I was moved beyond words. To hear these children (many of whom have lost very dear loved ones at a very young age) singing: “...You give and take away...my heart will choose to say...Lord, blessed be your name...” rocked me to tears. It was truly a life-changing moment for me...and those moments just kept on coming!
Another moment that really sticks out to me on tour is when we were in South Carolina in late March and we received the news that one of the Mamis who these kids have known and grown up with at the children's home in Haiti had suddenly passed away. We had decided to tell the kids after a Saturday evening concert, right before one of our most hectic Sundays on tour- the Sunday when Mike and Christa were flying out to Ethiopia to select the kids for next year's choir.
As you could imagine, the kids were incredibly heartbroken to hear the news of their dear Mami and friend passing away and that night was filled with many tears and memories. The next day we had 3 morning concerts at one location and one evening concert at another church. I don't think any of us as staff knew what to expect from the kids. Would they be able to smile and be joyful on stage? Or would they break down at every thought of this dear one they missed so much? Would they be comforted by the thought of their Mami basking in the glory of our great Lord? All we could do was be there for the kids and pray that Jesus would receive glory for all that was to come of this.
We continued with the concerts and the kids did quite well with the morning performances. The Lord had sure performed a great work! But what impacted me most from that Sunday was the evening concert. The day was long and tiring and was wearing on us all and with Mike and Christa gone, the responsibilities had been doubled for many of us. But oh, our God's grace is so sufficient and his love is so good!
That night I watched as the Holy Spirit came upon the kids in power at that small church in South Carolina. I watched as their faces were illuminated by the love of our Great King. I stood back in tears and in awe when the kids all started that powerful song once more: “Blessed be the name of the Lord...you give and take away...my heart will choose to say...Lord, blessed be your name!” Oh what unexplainable joy and emotion filled the room when those words rang out! It seemed as if all of the children had just touched the hem of Jesus' garment and had been relieved from the pain and aching they were experiencing and were filled with the life-changing joy of knowing that Jesus had saved them from a lifetime of hurt and confusion. I was struck speechless, as were nearly all in the room as we watched the glory of the Lord descend upon the faces of 15 children worshiping their Savior.
After the concert nearly every person there came up to me and said that they had never seen such a powerful presentation and display of Christ's heart for his children, and all I could say was: “Neither had I!” The Lord had proven himself faithful and true once again, even in the hardest of circumstances! As I began to tear down the set, James walked back into the room having come from greeting many of those who had witnessed the concert, and we both just stared at each other with tears in our eyes-speechless after having experiencing what took place that night. The only words we could say were “Oh Jesus! You are so good!”
How can we keep from blessing your name, oh Jesus?
Blessed Be Your Name
In the land that is plentiful
Where Your streams of abundance flow
Blessed be Your name
Blessed Be Your name
When I'm found in the desert place
Though I walk through the wilderness
Blessed Be Your name
Every blessing You pour out
I'll turn back to praise
When the darkness closes in, Lord
Still I will say
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Blessed be your glorious name!
- Matt Redman
Blessed be his glorious name forever; may the whole earth be filled with his glory! Amen and Amen!
-Psalm 72:19
...The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
-Job 1:21b
Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.
-Matthew 18:3
Monday, May 16, 2011
What God Taught Me
As the 2010-2011 tour draws to a close, it is amazing to see the work God has done in and through the lives of the 15 children who are a part of the His Little Feet children’s choir.
Today, we asked the His Little Feet children to summarize what God has been teaching them this past year, and how they have grown spiritually because of it. Here are some of their responses…
Cassandra, 13 - God is teaching me how to be nice to people.
Moise, 10 - I’m learning to know Jesus.
Nephthalie, 10 - God is making my heart thankful for His sacrifice for us.
Esterline, 12 - I have learned from God how to love my enemies.
Johnson, 7 – I have learned what it means to believe in Jesus Christ.
Falencia, 10 - God is teaching me about respect.
Dianelie, 7 - God is teaching me how to listen and obey. I am also learning about being a Christian and not fighting with my friends.
Daphney, 14 - God is helping me to be patient.
Djoulie, 8 - I’m learning how to become a Christian.
Praise God for the many works he is doing in these children’s lives! May we all continue to seek after Him and learn to be more like Christ – no matter how old we are!
Please remember to keep these children in your prayers as they return home to Haiti very soon. Pray that God will continue to develop their faith and trust in Him, and that they will be used to bring glory to His name throughout their lives.
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes Me.” – Matthew 18: 1-2
Today, we asked the His Little Feet children to summarize what God has been teaching them this past year, and how they have grown spiritually because of it. Here are some of their responses…
Cassandra, 13 - God is teaching me how to be nice to people.
Moise, 10 - I’m learning to know Jesus.
Nephthalie, 10 - God is making my heart thankful for His sacrifice for us.
Esterline, 12 - I have learned from God how to love my enemies.
Johnson, 7 – I have learned what it means to believe in Jesus Christ.
Falencia, 10 - God is teaching me about respect.
Dianelie, 7 - God is teaching me how to listen and obey. I am also learning about being a Christian and not fighting with my friends.
Daphney, 14 - God is helping me to be patient.
Djoulie, 8 - I’m learning how to become a Christian.
Praise God for the many works he is doing in these children’s lives! May we all continue to seek after Him and learn to be more like Christ – no matter how old we are!
Please remember to keep these children in your prayers as they return home to Haiti very soon. Pray that God will continue to develop their faith and trust in Him, and that they will be used to bring glory to His name throughout their lives.
At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes Me.” – Matthew 18: 1-2
Monday, May 9, 2011
From Auntie Rachel
Auntie Rachel is another one of the wonderful traveling staff for His Little Feet. In this entry she shares about one of the team’s fondest memories of the 2010-2011 tour.
A Day at the Hahns’
As the sun shines brightly and the warm breeze blows, it feels like summer has finally arrived in Lincoln, Nebraska. The whole team loves coming to stay with Uncle Dick and Auntie Jane, Uncle Mikey’s parents. It is a time of rest even though we have several concerts in the area over the weekend. Auntie Jane’s hospitable heart quickly makes everyone as comfortable as if they were in their own home.
On a typical afternoon, the girls are most likely in the basement braiding each other’s hair while the boys are lined up on the basketball court engaged in a lively game of Knockout. But there is a special activity that everyone is looking forward to today. After lunch, Auntie Jane is giving bread-baking lessons to the girls and revealing some of her time-tested secrets for banana bread, which is a favorite with all.
The boys also had a special time with Uncle Dick recently. He is a collector of watches, and the boys enjoyed an outing with him to Target where they each were able to pick out a new watch.
The most memorable moments at Uncle Dick and Auntie Jane’s home are the sweet, one-on-one times with the children that we as a staff begin to cherish more and more as the end approaches. As I am finishing up writing this blog entry, 10-year-old Falencia came to sit next to me and with her sweet smile asks me to wish everyone a “Happy Mother’s Day!”
“But let all those that put their trust in you rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because you defend them; let them also that love your name be joyful in you.”
Psalm 5:11
A Day at the Hahns’
As the sun shines brightly and the warm breeze blows, it feels like summer has finally arrived in Lincoln, Nebraska. The whole team loves coming to stay with Uncle Dick and Auntie Jane, Uncle Mikey’s parents. It is a time of rest even though we have several concerts in the area over the weekend. Auntie Jane’s hospitable heart quickly makes everyone as comfortable as if they were in their own home.
On a typical afternoon, the girls are most likely in the basement braiding each other’s hair while the boys are lined up on the basketball court engaged in a lively game of Knockout. But there is a special activity that everyone is looking forward to today. After lunch, Auntie Jane is giving bread-baking lessons to the girls and revealing some of her time-tested secrets for banana bread, which is a favorite with all.
The boys also had a special time with Uncle Dick recently. He is a collector of watches, and the boys enjoyed an outing with him to Target where they each were able to pick out a new watch.
The most memorable moments at Uncle Dick and Auntie Jane’s home are the sweet, one-on-one times with the children that we as a staff begin to cherish more and more as the end approaches. As I am finishing up writing this blog entry, 10-year-old Falencia came to sit next to me and with her sweet smile asks me to wish everyone a “Happy Mother’s Day!”
“But let all those that put their trust in you rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because you defend them; let them also that love your name be joyful in you.”
Psalm 5:11
Monday, May 2, 2011
Going Back Home
This blog post is written by our newest His Little Feet staff member, Jeff Dillon!
For anyone who has left something of significance behind – perhaps a church, a school or a town – there is nothing more emotional than making a trip back home.
This past Sunday, I received an opportunity to go back “home” in a special way. As the newest member of the His Little Feet team, I was able to return to the church of my childhood, Sherwood Park Baptist Church in Greeley, Colorado, for a His Little Feet choir performance.
When I was a kid, I sang in a children’s choir myself. It was called “Son Light Company,” and was directed by my mom. I was definitely not the star singer. But I enjoyed standing up on that stage, praising God with the Sherwood community.
And here I was, years later, returning as a small part of another children’s choir (don’t worry - I’m not singing anymore). What an amazing journey God has me on!
Seeing the 15 incredible kids of His Little Feet singing up on that same stage Sunday morning brought out a lot of emotions in me – but most of all I felt extraordinarily blessed.
I am blessed having been raised in a church community that encouraged me and welcomed me throughout my life – and continues to do so today (even on short notice and when I have 15 Haitian kids in tow).
I am blessed to bring my wife Becca and all my new friends at His Little Feet to meet this community. Introducing them to people who saw me grow up firsthand was a meaningful opportunity.
And I am also incredibly blessed to now be a part of His Little Feet. It is so clear to me how God is using these children to profoundly impact the lives of people all across the country, as well as improve the lives of vulnerable children all around the world.
So today, I am thankful for Sherwood Park Baptist, along with the dozens of other churches like it who have opened their doors and hearts to the His Little Feet choir this past year.
And I am also thankful for the 15 children of His Little Feet, who this past Sunday again reminded me of a powerful truth. One of the songs the kids share at each performance, “I Belong,” reminds us that nothing on earth or in heaven can separate us from God’s love.
What a reassuring thought it is that, no matter where this life takes us, in Christ’s love we all can find our way back home.
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:38-39
For anyone who has left something of significance behind – perhaps a church, a school or a town – there is nothing more emotional than making a trip back home.
This past Sunday, I received an opportunity to go back “home” in a special way. As the newest member of the His Little Feet team, I was able to return to the church of my childhood, Sherwood Park Baptist Church in Greeley, Colorado, for a His Little Feet choir performance.
When I was a kid, I sang in a children’s choir myself. It was called “Son Light Company,” and was directed by my mom. I was definitely not the star singer. But I enjoyed standing up on that stage, praising God with the Sherwood community.
And here I was, years later, returning as a small part of another children’s choir (don’t worry - I’m not singing anymore). What an amazing journey God has me on!
Seeing the 15 incredible kids of His Little Feet singing up on that same stage Sunday morning brought out a lot of emotions in me – but most of all I felt extraordinarily blessed.
I am blessed having been raised in a church community that encouraged me and welcomed me throughout my life – and continues to do so today (even on short notice and when I have 15 Haitian kids in tow).
I am blessed to bring my wife Becca and all my new friends at His Little Feet to meet this community. Introducing them to people who saw me grow up firsthand was a meaningful opportunity.
And I am also incredibly blessed to now be a part of His Little Feet. It is so clear to me how God is using these children to profoundly impact the lives of people all across the country, as well as improve the lives of vulnerable children all around the world.
So today, I am thankful for Sherwood Park Baptist, along with the dozens of other churches like it who have opened their doors and hearts to the His Little Feet choir this past year.
And I am also thankful for the 15 children of His Little Feet, who this past Sunday again reminded me of a powerful truth. One of the songs the kids share at each performance, “I Belong,” reminds us that nothing on earth or in heaven can separate us from God’s love.
What a reassuring thought it is that, no matter where this life takes us, in Christ’s love we all can find our way back home.
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” – Romans 8:38-39
Monday, April 25, 2011
Resurrection Sunday
The His Little Feet team had a wonderful time celebrating the resurrection of our Lord and Savior here in Windsor, Colorado this past weekend.
We were blessed to be in our home church at Ellerslie on Sunday morning and to have a special team lunch at Uncle Mikey and Auntie Christa’s house. In the afternoon and evening, Auntie MJ and her family welcomed us to their home for an Easter egg hunt, games, and pizza.
What a memorable day it was! We are so grateful to God for allowing us to cherish every moment with these children as the end of the tour draws near.
We hope you had a Christ-filled weekend with your family as well. What a great God we serve!
“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations.”
- Isaiah 61:10-11
Funny story from this weekend...
The children love to eat goat in Haiti, so we decided to prepare a special Easter lunch for them with a taste of home. When the kids heard of our plan to have goat on Sunday, the first thing out of 8-year-old Djoulie's mouth was, "Who is gonna kill it?"
We were blessed to be in our home church at Ellerslie on Sunday morning and to have a special team lunch at Uncle Mikey and Auntie Christa’s house. In the afternoon and evening, Auntie MJ and her family welcomed us to their home for an Easter egg hunt, games, and pizza.
What a memorable day it was! We are so grateful to God for allowing us to cherish every moment with these children as the end of the tour draws near.
We hope you had a Christ-filled weekend with your family as well. What a great God we serve!
“I delight greatly in the LORD; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations.”
- Isaiah 61:10-11
Funny story from this weekend...
The children love to eat goat in Haiti, so we decided to prepare a special Easter lunch for them with a taste of home. When the kids heard of our plan to have goat on Sunday, the first thing out of 8-year-old Djoulie's mouth was, "Who is gonna kill it?"
Monday, April 18, 2011
Stories from Uncle James
As we’ve said before, we have an absolutely incredible staff here at His Little Feet, and one of those wonderful people is Uncle James. This blog entry is written by him. We hope you are touched by the powerful work taking place in Johnson’s life. God is good!
“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty…” 1 Corinthians 1:27
Blessed doesn’t even begin to describe my experience traveling as an intern with His Little Feet and with these amazing children. We have laughed and cried together, we have had spiritual battles and great victories together; we have become a family. The Lord has taught me so much through serving alongside of them.
Over the past four months of being on the road I have had the privilege of seeing three of our boys in the choir make the decision to give their lives to their Lord and Savior. The most recent dedication came from our youngest boy Johnson.
One afternoon I was debating with Johnson on whether he needed to take a nap. He felt he didn’t but I knew he did. After a long time of going back and forth Johnson finally laid down. As he was laying there the Lord was moving in his heart because to my surprise he said to me, “Uncle James, I want to be a new creation and have Jesus give me a new heart.” Sensing the seriousness in Johnson’s request I knew taking some time to explain the Gospel was more important than the afternoon nap.
We sat together for some time as I broke down the truths of the Gospel to Johnson. It was so evident that the Spirit of God was working in Johnson’s heart in those moments, as periodically he would stop to confess his remorse over the sin in his life, along with his disobedience in regards to the afternoon nap. Each time, both of us would break into tears as God was bringing this seven-year-old boy to a new understanding of his Savior.
One of the most powerful moments was when I was explaining to Johnson that when we give our lives to the Lord they are no longer our own but we are to seek God’s will for our life. For as long as I’ve known Johnson he has always told everyone that he wanted to be a professional soccer player. After I explained our need to seek God’s will for our life Johnson sat for a moment in thought. Johnson broke the silence with a statement that he no longer wanted to be a soccer player. Surprised, I asked him what he wanted to be. His response brought me to tears again as he declared, “I want to be a pastor… so I can tell everyone about Jesus.”
I was astonished by this little boy’s willingness to forsake his childhood dream to pursue the glory of God. This anointed conversation ended with Johnson proclaiming in his own words the truths that God had just opened his heart to and his desire for God to enter in and give him a new heart.
Over the past couple weeks it amazes me to see the change in Johnson. Occasionally he still has a day when the crazy little seven-year-old that everyone loves shines through, but it is evident that God is working through the life of little Johnson. Just a few days ago we had all hopped aboard the bus to start another long drive to the next church. The first thing that we do when we start these journeys is one of the staff members will get up in front of the bus and give a devotional for the day. As Uncle Aaron was in back preparing to speak to the kids, Johnson kept declaring that he wanted to give the devotion. When Uncle Mikey and Auntie Christa heard our youngest choir member’s desire to speak to his friends they called me up front to discuss whether he was serious or not. I took a minute and asked Johnson if he really did want to get up and speak to everyone and with a very serious face, and a small smile, he said yes. He began telling me all that the Lord had put on his heart to share and I knew I could confidently tell Mike and Christa that he was ready for the responsibility of speaking to the rest of the kids. I encouraged Johnson to take the few minutes he had before speaking to ask the Lord to fill his mouth and the Spirit to guide his words. After talking to Mikey for a moment I turned around to see Johnson sitting, hands folded, and most certainly in the presence of his God asking for His help.
The time came and I introduced our special speaker. The kids were very surprised to see the little boy who was often the one making the jokes and causing a ruckus step up in front of them ready to share his heart. Johnson stood before all his friends and began to speak in Creole with a very serious tone. I watched as the youngest of us stood fighting back tears, preaching to his brothers and sisters. The children looked on with a surprising respect and attentiveness as he shared with them. Johnson finished with a prayer, that even though the staff couldn’t understand we could all tell it came with a passion and burden of the Lord.
My little friend returned to his seat and with a peace I had never seen in him before. Christa leaned back and asked Loudrige what Johnson had spoken on. “Forgiveness,” she said, “and it was really good.” I started off this blog with a verse… a verse that the Lord displayed right in front of my eyes that day. God had taken the youngest and sometimes the most foolish one of us all, and He used him to speak into all of our hearts that day.
Like I wrote earlier, blessed does not begin to describe my experience of serving alongside of these children. This is just one story of our travels this year. God has used these children countless times to not only teach me more about Himself, but they have touched people across this nation. I am so excited to see what amazing stories come from these children’s lives as they grow up and God uses them to bring His name glory.
“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty…” 1 Corinthians 1:27
Blessed doesn’t even begin to describe my experience traveling as an intern with His Little Feet and with these amazing children. We have laughed and cried together, we have had spiritual battles and great victories together; we have become a family. The Lord has taught me so much through serving alongside of them.
Over the past four months of being on the road I have had the privilege of seeing three of our boys in the choir make the decision to give their lives to their Lord and Savior. The most recent dedication came from our youngest boy Johnson.
One afternoon I was debating with Johnson on whether he needed to take a nap. He felt he didn’t but I knew he did. After a long time of going back and forth Johnson finally laid down. As he was laying there the Lord was moving in his heart because to my surprise he said to me, “Uncle James, I want to be a new creation and have Jesus give me a new heart.” Sensing the seriousness in Johnson’s request I knew taking some time to explain the Gospel was more important than the afternoon nap.
We sat together for some time as I broke down the truths of the Gospel to Johnson. It was so evident that the Spirit of God was working in Johnson’s heart in those moments, as periodically he would stop to confess his remorse over the sin in his life, along with his disobedience in regards to the afternoon nap. Each time, both of us would break into tears as God was bringing this seven-year-old boy to a new understanding of his Savior.
One of the most powerful moments was when I was explaining to Johnson that when we give our lives to the Lord they are no longer our own but we are to seek God’s will for our life. For as long as I’ve known Johnson he has always told everyone that he wanted to be a professional soccer player. After I explained our need to seek God’s will for our life Johnson sat for a moment in thought. Johnson broke the silence with a statement that he no longer wanted to be a soccer player. Surprised, I asked him what he wanted to be. His response brought me to tears again as he declared, “I want to be a pastor… so I can tell everyone about Jesus.”
I was astonished by this little boy’s willingness to forsake his childhood dream to pursue the glory of God. This anointed conversation ended with Johnson proclaiming in his own words the truths that God had just opened his heart to and his desire for God to enter in and give him a new heart.
Over the past couple weeks it amazes me to see the change in Johnson. Occasionally he still has a day when the crazy little seven-year-old that everyone loves shines through, but it is evident that God is working through the life of little Johnson. Just a few days ago we had all hopped aboard the bus to start another long drive to the next church. The first thing that we do when we start these journeys is one of the staff members will get up in front of the bus and give a devotional for the day. As Uncle Aaron was in back preparing to speak to the kids, Johnson kept declaring that he wanted to give the devotion. When Uncle Mikey and Auntie Christa heard our youngest choir member’s desire to speak to his friends they called me up front to discuss whether he was serious or not. I took a minute and asked Johnson if he really did want to get up and speak to everyone and with a very serious face, and a small smile, he said yes. He began telling me all that the Lord had put on his heart to share and I knew I could confidently tell Mike and Christa that he was ready for the responsibility of speaking to the rest of the kids. I encouraged Johnson to take the few minutes he had before speaking to ask the Lord to fill his mouth and the Spirit to guide his words. After talking to Mikey for a moment I turned around to see Johnson sitting, hands folded, and most certainly in the presence of his God asking for His help.
The time came and I introduced our special speaker. The kids were very surprised to see the little boy who was often the one making the jokes and causing a ruckus step up in front of them ready to share his heart. Johnson stood before all his friends and began to speak in Creole with a very serious tone. I watched as the youngest of us stood fighting back tears, preaching to his brothers and sisters. The children looked on with a surprising respect and attentiveness as he shared with them. Johnson finished with a prayer, that even though the staff couldn’t understand we could all tell it came with a passion and burden of the Lord.
My little friend returned to his seat and with a peace I had never seen in him before. Christa leaned back and asked Loudrige what Johnson had spoken on. “Forgiveness,” she said, “and it was really good.” I started off this blog with a verse… a verse that the Lord displayed right in front of my eyes that day. God had taken the youngest and sometimes the most foolish one of us all, and He used him to speak into all of our hearts that day.
Like I wrote earlier, blessed does not begin to describe my experience of serving alongside of these children. This is just one story of our travels this year. God has used these children countless times to not only teach me more about Himself, but they have touched people across this nation. I am so excited to see what amazing stories come from these children’s lives as they grow up and God uses them to bring His name glory.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Johnson
One of many sweet Johnson moments...
One of Johnson's aunties was sweetly correcting him after lunch one day because he had run upstairs before being excused from the table. The auntie had him sit down and said, "Now Johnson, do you understand why I'm having you sit right here for a few minutes?" Johnson looks up with big guilty eyes, sighs, and proceeds to empty his pockets of the Nacho Cheese Doritos he had stuffed there during lunch!
Suffice it to say that Johnson learned two lessons that day, and provided all his aunties and uncles with a sweet story to laugh about that night :) We sure do love that little man!
One of Johnson's aunties was sweetly correcting him after lunch one day because he had run upstairs before being excused from the table. The auntie had him sit down and said, "Now Johnson, do you understand why I'm having you sit right here for a few minutes?" Johnson looks up with big guilty eyes, sighs, and proceeds to empty his pockets of the Nacho Cheese Doritos he had stuffed there during lunch!
Suffice it to say that Johnson learned two lessons that day, and provided all his aunties and uncles with a sweet story to laugh about that night :) We sure do love that little man!
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