We NEED MEN!

This past weekend, I held the first retreat for some of the older boys at the orphanage. 15 guys, age 13- 18 piled into my living room for an afternoon of food, teaching and fun!

The boys arrived around 1:00 p.m. and we began with discussing our visions and dreams of the future. There are some lofty goals in this group. We took a bit of time to dispel some myths about America... (i.e. the government leaves cars abandoned on the side of the road for anyone to claim and use.. um, NO!)

We also took time to prepare our meal. I ended up not teaching them how to bake because they arrived a few hours late and there wasn't time. We did have lots of lessons in hygiene, cooking etiquette, etc. They were very receptive and well behaved. While waiting on our stew to cook a few boys went outside for a quick soccer game and I taught the rest how to play Uno. Fun times!

Our last few hours were spent watching the movie, The Gospel and then discussing what a true relationship with God looks like, and how to deal with anger, bitterness and resentment.

I was struck with how they followed me around like small children. They had questions and some simply wanted just to be close to me. It was interesting that they were more "clingy" than the girls are. Not in a bad way but it struck me how much we all crave family. When you live in an orphanage, institutional living is so different. These kids live in a large orphanage with a few staff so they crave the attention of a mother and father.

90% of our volunteers are women. This isn't bad but we NEED more men! We need them to help give what we as women can't. The kids need the love of "mothers" and "fathers." This is for the girls as well as the boys. As days go on, my understanding of why God created family the way He did deepens. There are come things that God gave to women to pass on to their kids and their are others that He gave to men. All kids need BOTH to function well.

My hearts desire is for men to come and pour out to these beautiful children. Are you a man  some vacation time on your hands? Would you like to come and impart love, wisdom, kingdom and practical skills to some kids who desperately need it?

Are you a married couple seeking to serve the Lord and bless some children in the process?

WE NEED YOU!