These He May Not Devour

"Let the children come to me, for the kingdom of God belongs to them." 

I have spent two years with a group of teachers, some coming and going, but all called to speak this message over the ones God has given us to love.  The message of Christ's calling them to himself, of their place of honor in the kingdom. 

Over the last month, two of the girls that I know have been able to speak of the abuse that they have been experiencing in their homes. In my meeting with the teachers yesterday morning (we meet every Saturday at 7am), I reminded them of the lion that is crouching, waiting to devour the vulnerable among us (1 Peter 5:7).  I exhorted them to not grow weary as we prepare these little ones to stand strong and know Jesus likes and loves them and invites them to himself. In doing so, we declare, "These he may not devour." 

We have a two new additions to our teaching team.  God'spower is a young man who is studying music in Jos, and has written the song you see him singing above.  He has recently learned to play the guitar (in the last two weeks).  Dorcas works with children on Sunday mornings as well, but has decided to also be part of our team. 

We also are working on a new strategy.  We have fully activated our small groups.  We will teach the full lesson in our small groups twice a month, and on the other two weeks, continue our three class rotation with a shorter small group session at the end.  This gives our teachers times to connect with the children and know their names and disciple them.  This strategy is the result of a participatory discussion facilitated by a group that Zach had helped to train in the office.

Please pray for the children of Hwolshe, and for the teachers of the Thursday night Bible study.