One of my favorite things about returning to these orphanages is found in the moments when we first arrive and recognition dawns on us and on the kids as we make eye contact with familiar faces.  I love that moment when to door opens to the babies home and kids come spilling through the doorway with “Hola!” followed by hugs and kisses.  In the same way, there is that moment when we drive into Eliza Martinez and there are kids running alongside the van shouting and touching and waving.  They are so excited for visitors, and we are so excited to deepen the connections we have been building for years.

We talked today about how the kids love to have their pictures taken, to see themselves immediately in our digital cameras.  They love the candy, bubbles, games, crafts, etc.  And all of those really great things are merely tools to connect with the kids and show them God’s love.  I pray that they know God sometime in their lives, and I hope that they have an inkling of how much they are loved by their creator through the tiny ways we show them how much we are crazy about them.

I particularly loved to see Mili today.  She’s the little girl who was literally thrown away by her family.  When we first met, she was withdrawn, distrusting, and emotionless.  Today she has a smile and a laugh that can melt you, and she was quick to be held and rocked and smooched.  I love to see what God has done in her in a few years.  It’s a joy to watch.

For another view and another story, check out the blogs of Shawn, Scot, Nate & Rachael.