A Jewel of Wisdom from Nicaragua

On Tuesday night, after we had finished a delicious spaghetti dinner, Sonja and Elena were at the table singing together. I recognized the song and understood that Sonja wanted Elena to sing it in a round. Elena was having trouble so I joined her, although not in Spanish. "Father, I adore You, lay my life before You. How I love You!" Several others joined in and soon we were worshiping in two languages through a simple three-part round. It was a glorious moment, perhaps even a glimpse of heaven.

The lyrics of the songs spoke to my heart. I am called to lay my life down out of my love for God and his people. Together, we are all called to be the body of Christ. Using our own individual gifts and abilities, we partner with other believers so that both believers and non-believers are built up and blessed. Needs are met and the Gospel is preached through deeds and words, or song.

I was beginning to gain a deeper understanding of my role here. I had brought tools and ideas for the teachers and children. Now, after sharing these, I needed to step back (lay my plan down, and allow these teachers to use the resources in the best ways for their own unique situations).  I rewrote the lesson plans so we would have an outline on the following day allowing all of us to partner together with the students.

As I sit here at home, I have no doubts that the teachers will use the rhythm and melody activities with their students. I am certain both will find enjoyment and learning opportunities that will be beneficial. But I have brought home a much more valuable lesson. Violetta put it very succinctly as she helped us unpack what we had experienced. She talked about how we know a very fast-paced, structured life. She reminded us that we need to come asking questions and then listen to the responses. We must then be willing to change our plans to accommodate their needs. What a jewel of wisdom she spoke. I must learn to recognize that my knowledge and abilities do not necessarily translate into what they need. I must spend time listening, observing and discerning the real needs of people and then be flexible, adjusting my plan to allow for their real needs to be met. During these 10-days, I experienced God gently walking me with my A1 type of personality through my own personal workshop.

I have returned home wanting to more effectively learn how to lay down my own life for the good of the kingdom. I want to learn how to work in harmony with my own teammates and friends so we are better able to create beautiful music that will do more than sound good, it will meet the heart needs of others and bring much glory to the God we love.

Patty