In the midst of all the outreach we’ve been conducting for relief efforts, it’s essential to take a break, sit down, enjoy a snack, and recharge for the next round of work. After lunch, I noticed a group of elementary aged em children with styrofoam lids filled with various local fruits. I had been craving pomelos and appreciate the vitamin C boost. When I approached one child, a total of eight kiddos ran up to me! I couldn’t turn any of them away, so it turned into a perfect opportunity to grab some fruit for our teammates as well. I noticed one girl had curly hair like mine, so I complimented her and we shared a delightful moment over our similarities.

One girl asked, “You are nice! Are you Muslim or Christian?”

I inquired about their faith, and the kids replied with a tone of “DUH!”

I responded, “I’m a follower of Isa Al Masih.” (translates to Jesus, the Anointed One).

“Who is that?” they asked.

With enthusiasm, I exclaimed, “Wait?! You don’t know who Isa Al Masih is?!”

Their eyes sparkled with eagerness to learn more.

“The one true Allah (which means God in their dialect) loves us immensely. However, there is much bad in this world that tries to distance us from knowing the truth about our God. Some choose to do bad things and act naughtily.”

The kids erupted in boisterous laughter, playfully pointing at one of the boys, and the laughter continued!

“Allah loves us so much that He gave us Isa Al Masih. He wants to help us fix the brokenness we face in our lives and families. I know you’re sad and can’t go back to school yet with the classrooms still unsafe. But did you know He even desires for you all to learn and grow because He loves you dearly? Every good and perfect gift comes from above. (James 1:17). ”

The children were excited to hear about this new name they had never encountered before. Though our conversation was brief, I pray that the Lord uses this introduction to stir curiosity about Jesus the Messiah, in their hearts.

Afterwards, I invited them into a circle of prayer where we finished with touching our hands to our foreheads then down to our hearts, “In the name of Isa Al Masih, Ameen!” 

One of the reasons I cherish working with kids is their enduring sense of wonder and their search for joy. Many are not yet content with the mundane flow of life; they still dream and hold onto hope. In the wake of the earthquake, we also had the opportunity to reignite hope in many individuals who received relief goods. We were able to convey that they are seen, loved, and cared for by our God.

To conclude, I’d like to share a short but impactful scripture passage: Galatians 6:9-10a. “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone…”