As I sat with a lap full of children at Timbutini carepoint, I became o v e r w h e l m e d.
I’m overwhelmed by how skinny the precious little boy nuzzling into my neck is. I’m overwhelmed how all the kids lick up every scrap of the “pap” they are fed at the carepoints. I’m overwhelmed when I realize that might be the only time they get food. I’m overwhelmed at how big their bellies are. I’m overwhelmed at how unlike today Anele normally doesn’t have anybody to pick her up and wipe away her tears when she falls on the playground. I’m overwhelmed at how Nokuphila called me mommy. I’m overwhelmed that some of these children have no one to fight for them. I’m overwhelmed how desperate these children are for love and affection– they will literally fight just to hold my hand. I wish I had about 30 hands.
I’m overwhelmed by the light that shines in their eyes when I tell them that they are beautiful and that Jesu Uyakutsandza (Jesus loves you).I’m overwhelmed by the amount of joy these children have even about the littlest things (e.g. drawing in the dirt with a stick). I’m overwhelmed by the kisses these children shower me with. I’m overwhelmed whenever the children pull my thumb back (which means I love you). I’m overwhelmed that Majahonke took my plate and washed it for me. I’m overwhelmed whenever they call me “Bluke” or “Block”. I’m overwhelmed when the kids sprint up and jump in my arms. I’m overwhelmed at how Jesus loves these children a bajillion more times than I do. I’m overwhelmed at how big the world really is. I’m overwhelmed at how God knows how many hairs are on every one of our heads. I’m overwhelmed at the number of laughs (and “wows”) I’ve shared with my 10 beautiful God-fearing teammates. I’m overwhelmed by the friendliness of Swazis (sometimes a little too friendly). I’m overwhelmed at the fiery sunsets and absurd amount of stars in the sky. But most of all: I’m overwhelmed by the grace and love of our sovereign God.
