By Lincoln Li, Flemingdon Park | Outreach Worker
'The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps - Proverbs 16:9 (ESV)
Our kids love taking photos with leaders during our KIC (Kids in Community) after school program
Around two months ago, I had a plan of what would happen in the next few months leading into the summer season. The festivities begin with March Break Day camp where we would have a change of scenery. During the winter months of after school programs, we had limited space to do high energy games, but we made the most out of it. The exciting, supposedly, highlight for day camp this time around was having access to a school gymnasium. That meant there was big, open, space in all its glory where backflips and handstands were slightly more permissible. Plans for dodgeball were made. Plans for basketball were made. Plans for highly interactive Bible lessons were made. Plans to catch up with kids, who we don’t see often, were made.
During program, the kids have Bible time where they learn about who Jesus is
To follow up with that, Easter would be the next big thing where we would delve into the topics of Jesus’ death and resurrection. April also marked the fact there was one more month until after school program season would end -meaning summer day camp plans are ready to be rolled out. June would fly-by with fun-filled workshops and summer camp planning with the new interns, which would all lead to one of the things I look forward to - Sonshine Day Camp.
Unfortunately, not everything pans out the way we planned them. I realized very quickly that I was not in control. However, despite these setbacks, God is still working.
Lincoln and Nuri engage with their youth through online gaming and devotionals
Nuri and I have been wanting to get to know the families we serve a bit better. We were new at the time and wanted to familiarize ourselves with our surroundings and the people. We came to know the kids due to the after school program setting, but it was a bit challenging to get to know the parents since our interactions would be very brief. However, due to the pandemic, after school programs were paused and we had to explore ways to keep in touch with the kids and their families. Video calls with the entire family were scheduled and during that time, it would be one of sharing and also of prayer. Our faces lit up when we saw the kids and families. The feedback was very positive as well, as families were very interested in having to do another one. We were really blown away. God, during this time, has been allowing us to get to know the families better and better with each video call.
Something to think about:
What are some plans that you have this year, but was completely derailed?
How might God be at work in your particular circumstance?
How has God blessed you and others around you during this time of pandemic?
Despite these setbacks, trial and errors, and trying to make the most out of these circumstances, let us be still and really reflect upon the blessings that God has given us.