HYC Nairobi: Come like Children

I have never experienced life in the Kingdom of God as much as I did over the fourteen days I spent in Nairobi! I built so many inspiring friendships; I talked through my doubts, and sought to heal some old wounds with my peers. Most impactful however, were the lessons that I learned from the people I was able to serve!

The two big things about serving in Nairobi that really impacted my heart can be summed up in Romans 5:3-8, specifically verses 3-5 and verse 8. They read:

“Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance, perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit…. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

The first part of this passage, that talks about suffering, makes me immediately think of the conditions under which many of the people of Makindu (a community three hours outside of Nairobi) lived. Their homes were small, and made of dirt or scrap metal. Children shared rooms with goats, and women in their mid-late fifties walked miles to get water. Yet, this passage also reminds me of the perseverance and hard work that was so evident in every single individual that we served. The people of Makindu were so hopeful and full of joy because they persevered through their suffering, developing a hard working character and a hope that they would be alright no matter the circumstances! It was so inspiring and convicting to witness!

Verse eight, which talks about God’s love reminds me of working in the pediatric ward in Kenyatta Hospital, where our primary role was playing with the children. Working in Kenyatta was a personal highlight for me; everyday I was so excited to go and to play with the kids. Everyday I wanted to see the kids smile and be with them. It didn’t matter to me or any of us that these kids were sick, and often dirty. And the kids didn’t seem to think about their physical state either, from the moment we walked up the stairs and around the corner of the third floor ward, the children were right there ready to grab our hands and climb on our backs. All they saw was that we were there for them to love them and to encourage them. All we saw were sweet faces in need of hope. It was then that I realized that how much God wanted me to run to him, unashamed of my flaws and eager to be near him. While they were still sick, I wanted to be near them. And while I was still a sinner, God wanted to be near me. Everyday He is excited to be with me, to encourage me, to see me smile, regardless of the messy girl I can be.

I walked away from this experience richer than I could have ever imagined. All of the friendships, memories, and lessons learned I will cherish forever. Specifically, I came home with the conviction to go to God no matter the circumstances and no matter how messy I get. I have decided to persevere through my sufferings and to make the choice to find joy and contentment in all circumstances! This HOPE Youth Corps taught me exactly what I needed to be taught, and has inspired me to take my faith several notches higher!