A Burning in the Chest

Still on the subject of those missionary biographies... when a teachable moment comes along in the books, I'll occasionally stop the reading and say something like, "How do you think she felt at this point?" "Do you think she was scared?" "Why didn't she turn back?" Usually the older two are spot on and they answer correctly.

One time we were talking about Gladys and I told them that she just felt so strongly in her soul that God had called her, she was willing to go through any difficulty in her path. She didn't hear God's voice like someone was actually talking to her, she just knew. Like a burning in your heart or like a thought that just won't leave.... and sometimes it can feel like you actually heard someone saying something to you.

It's been wonderful for them and me to see the faith of Christian men and women being lived out in fast motion. And He's starting to capture their hearts!

The other day, Mason and Cliff took back an item he received for Christmas. They gave him $40 cash and Cliff said he could spend it on whatever he wanted (within reason). He thought about it for about 4 hours. Then in one of the most priceless moments I've witnessed with him, he said, "Mom, when we were driving back from the store, I felt a burning in my chest." I said, "Hmm. Are you OK? Does your heart hurt?" And he said, "No, it was like when Gladys Aylward felt that burning in her chest that God wanted her to be a missionary in China. I think God is telling me to give the money to someone needy."

I think my heart skipped a beat... I learn so much from these kids sometimes! I'm thrilled that he is starting to get the big picture... and so thankful for his generous heart.

I suggested a few places/people to give it to, and he decided to give it to an orphanage in Cameroon that a friend of mine started with her husband. He is so excited and so am I!