If you know me at the most basic level, you know that I’m a hugger. I love hugs. Fact: Studies show that hug are good for your health! You can’t argue with science. So, when we opened the gate to our compound and the Zambian children came running towards me and my team, arms wide open, it was such a beautiful picture to me. I was so excited to hug these children, hold them, and just love on them with then love of Christ. As soon as I was done holding one child, another one was right there to be picked-up next. At first, I believed the kids wanted hugs and to be held because our team was new and foreign to them, but then a reality I had learned about the culture hit me; these children wanted hugs so badly because they don’t get them anywhere else. Parents and children in Zambia don’t have the kind of relationship that allows for hugs or much physical contact. I couldn’t imagine. I know that I feel the most loved when I get a hug. For these children to be so desperate for hugs breaks my heart, but it also gives me an awesome opportunity to love them in such a simple and wonderful way over the next three months. However, I will not be able to meet this need forever.
Did you know everyone in the world was born with a hole in their heart? Yep, a big, gaping hole. Some people try to fill this hole with hugs, others with alcohol, others with money and material objects, but none of those things will ever quite be enough. Don’t get me wrong, hugs are great! But our hugs will only pretend to satisfy these children for the next three months. Only Jesus can permanently fill the hole these children have in their hearts. I am beyond excited to pour love into these children and share with them about the ultimate filler of gaping holes.
