I've never really understood the reference to mustard seeds in the Bible. I mean, I get it on an intellectual level- small things lead to bigger things, small faith can grow, etc. But on a deep heart level, it never really sunk in. Until today.

We had our first day of VBS today. Our first day in the village. It was amazing, and heartbreaking and uplifting and... well I could go on listing words for hours. Reader's Digest version: it was intense. The kids were so excited to see us, grabbing hold of us instantly, jumping around, having a great time.

But there was one little boy who just wasn't having much fun at all. I tried everything I could think of to get him to participate but nothing worked. And then he pulled up his sleeve and showed me a booboo. And as you automatically do, I kissed it "better". And his face just lit up and he gave me a huge hug and jumped right in with the other kids.

Now, I don't know this boy's story. I don't know what his home is like. But I know that in that moment he knew someone cared about him. And I know how much of a difference that can make. And it suddenly hit me that moments like that are mustard seeds. And they can take hold and grow into something amazing through the power of our awesome God. Who knows what that boy will grow up to do? He could change the lives of people in his village. He has certainly changed mine.

I don't think I'll ever kiss another booboo, or dry another tear, or rock another frightened child without thinking of him, and thinking of mustard seeds.

Thanks for sharing that story...it is sooo true! God only knows how that little "seed" - "kiss"....will grow ! :)

Jesus says " I require mercy not sacrifice, you have done it to one of the little ones and you have done it unto Him," I'm so touched by the work of this missions team and Racheal, the hands and feet and the voice of our Lord carried unto the all the world.

I've never really understood the reference to mustard seeds in the Bible. I mean, I get it on an intellectual level- small things lead to bigger things, small faith can grow, etc. But on a deep heart level, it never really sunk in. Until today.

We had our first day of VBS today. Our first day in the village. It was amazing, and heartbreaking and uplifting and... well I could go on listing words for hours. Reader's Digest version: it was intense. The kids were so excited to see us, grabbing hold of us instantly, jumping around, having a great time.

But there was one little boy who just wasn't having much fun at all. I tried everything I could think of to get him to participate but nothing worked. And then he pulled up his sleeve and showed me a booboo. And as you automatically do, I kissed it "better". And his face just lit up and he gave me a huge hug and jumped right in with the other kids.

Now, I don't know this boy's story. I don't know what his home is like. But I know that in that moment he knew someone cared about him. And I know how much of a difference that can make. And it suddenly hit me that moments like that are mustard seeds. And they can take hold and grow into something amazing through the power of our awesome God. Who knows what that boy will grow up to do? He could change the lives of people in his village. He has certainly changed mine.

I don't think I'll ever kiss another booboo, or dry another tear, or rock another frightened child without thinking of him, and thinking of mustard seeds.

--- jenspendlove(guest) 

God bless you and the team...those kids do remember every act of love and kindness you share with them...and I believe with all my heart it does and will make a difference!