washed.

The summer schedule is a little bit different than that during the school year.  Sure, the girls still go to school in the mornings, but they are done at lunch, which leaves the entire afternoon and evening open.  Each night, then, is a different activity planned:  game night, sports night, community service, movie night, and adventure day.

Tuesdays, however, are Bible study nights.  First thing I heard from someone was complaining that it was mandatory.  Second thing was the question, "What if someone's an atheist?  Why would they have to go?"  It was not very positive feedback, so I went into it a little skeptical about everyone's willingness to engage.

Fortunately, God had bigger plans than my skepticism allowed, and He moved in big ways tonight.  Girls wrote on their feet words that they thought described themselves, labels that they had been given, ways in which they are perceived, mistakes they've made, and sins they are/were involved in.  One of the Bigs talked about what it means to be a child of God, cleansed, and redeemed.

By the end of the talk girls were already crying, and then came the best part:
We washed their feet.  We took cloths and wiped away the words that once defined them, as a symbol of God's cleansing power.

Beauty.

Several girls took extra time to keep praying afterwards, and one even recommitted her life to Jesus - Praise the Lord!  These girls are seeking God like crazy, and this summer is brimming with opportunity for growth, for good conversation, for encouragement.  for LIFE.

Our hopes are high and our hearts are open.
Will you pray with us for the girls this summer, that they would be eager to know God more, living in His presence each day?