Our summer English workshop is well on its way… those who have come so far show great enthusiasm and commitment, really desiring to learn English. For that reason, they’re learning quickly and I’ve seen many already benefiting a lot from the lessons.
I’m so proud of our students.
My role has been to more or less provide entertainment for kids who aren’t taking part of the big group lesson. The first week I had my hands full with crying babies, who were probably more distraught than calmed as I attempted to soothe them in a foreign language.
Lately, however, the only child in my care has been a precious girl named Saliha.
Saliha has a charming spirit, and whenever she enters the room she immediately gives a hug to anyone and everyone. She definitely has her favorites, but that doesn’t stop her from making sure everyone receives her love.
Saliha’s favorite thing to do is to sing.
Or clap.
Or dance.
Or all three!
It doesn’t matter: music and rhythm capture her soul.
Maybe that’s why we connect so well– we both have gifts of love that are given and received through music and touch.
Anyways, the other day we were playing in the back of the room with some blocks when suddenly, she put her finger up to her lips and shushed me, then motioned with her hands for me to pray.
Confused, I looked over my shoulder and saw that my friend was leading a prayer.
Saliha doesn’t understand English.
Saliha doesn’t really even speak. The girl I’ve been describing has a physical disability affecting her mental and motor skills.
Her spirit, however, is obviously in-tune.
Saliha’s entire back was turned– I mean, there was no way that Saliha could’ve known to stop and pray…
if not moved in accordance by the Holy Spirit.
Seriously, every single time I am gifted with a day spent loving and being loved by Saliha, aside from my “touch cup” being filled, I am additionally reminded of God’s utmost care for His children.
How He loves us and delights over us with singing…
He sings over His creation, who were designed to respond with a song back to Him.
So many times in the Bible does God instruct His people to praise Him with a song- regardless of whatever state we’re in and with whatever skill we have.
Saliha does exactly that.
I like to imagine that when Saliha hums, the Holy Spirit inside of her is interceding, making her one of earth’s most exalted worship leaders in the sight of the Lord.
Her life is an example for so many people, and I myself am learning a lot from her. Especially about connecting intimately with God.
He has a specific song for each of us.
Am I listening? Am I in-tune, like Saliha, to know when the spirit is moving even when my back is turned?
“The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing.”
-Zephaniah 3:17