Friday, July 22, 2011

Lighthouse Update

From 2002 until 2006 Derek and I worked at the Lighthouse Children's Shelter in Rustenburg, SA. This emergency place of safety provides for children in crisis most often due to HIV infection for either mother and/or child, abandonment, or abuse. It was a season filled with challenges but many incredible moments of God's mercy and love. Our two sons were born while we lived on this property and many of their first memories come from sharing their lives with these children.

The little girl pictured here is very dear to our hearts. She's a fireball and loves life! At 18 months she came to the shelter unable to stand on her own. With a lot of love and focus, she learned to walk and quickly began to run. Now she dances! When she was had just turned 3 she began to get sick more frequently. We had suffered the loss of several infants at the Shelter but never an older child and for several months we prayed constantly for this little one's life. After her last extended stay in the hospital we were worshiping in church one morning and she was so weak that sitting in the chair was proving to be very difficult. Our son Malachi, who was 2 at the time, was sitting next to her and watching her closely. After a moment, he slipped from his chair and stood facing her. Slowly, he lifted one hand and then the other and began to stroke her face. Then ever so sweetly he kissed her mouth and smiled at her. With what little strength she had left she smiled back. Such tender love on both of their faces. I remember feeling a spark of fear for Malachi's health which was quickly replaced with keen awareness of God's love pouring from my child. This past weekend we celebrated this little beauty's 11th birthday and the entire time we sang the birthday song all I kept thinking was that at one time I had begun to plan her funeral. I am completely overwhelmed by the power of God's love. Please join me in praying for this sweet girl and the life God has given her. May she grow in relationship and understanding of Him more and more. Father, continue to guard her life and keep her safe. Help her to make good choices and continue to overcome every obstacle with Your strength. More than anything Lord, draw her close to You. Bless You Lord, Bless You!

1 comment:

Kathleen said...

This post has me crying. What a beautiful story about their bond and such innocent, beautiful love. She is a light.