First Grade Tutoring Adventure

As many of you know, most of my friends in South Africa are under the age of 7. For some reason, these little South African munchkins are drawn to me and I to them. As I've befriended these precious ones, I've been privy to building relationships with their entire family. When you love a child, the parents seem to love you. It's a beautiful thing and an Evangelism tool! Relationship building has been my theme here, and I'm seeing great fruit from these bonds. 

My little Mia is officially in grade 1 now. She started 3 weeks ago at "big school" (our school year calendar begins January and ends December). Mia had been in an informal preschool for 3 years prior to grade 1, but it was essentially glorified babysitting. Mia (as many in Capricorn in the same circumstance) now finds herself behind in basic phonics, literacy and numeracy. 

Upon a casual visit to her home to touch base with Mia's Foster mom, I asked how Mia was doing at school. I was caught up on her situation and was led to offer my time twice a week to tutor Mia and get her up to speed on the basics. So, I'm proud (an anxious) to announce that my latest adventure in missions: First Grade Tutoring. 

I quickly rounded up books and supplies. Mia and I had 2 sessions this week studying letters, numbers, and working on motor skills such as cutting and balance. As she writes and practices, I pray over her, I give her my full attention, I guide and correct. I intentionally play Seeds Family Worship in the background as she learns. I want her to be filled with God's love and God's Word. The purpose of this tutoring is not just educational, but missional!

Pray with me, that Mia would:

. grow in knowledge quickly in order to catch up and excel in school

. know the love of God and see the love of Christ in me as I work with her

. not grow weary, but persevere and be determined in all things

. be protected and loved in her Foster Family

. see the church's role in her life and never turn to the world for temporary pleasures

. be protective of purity in mind, body and spirit

. Love the Lord with all her heart and give her life to Him

Finding the number 1

Motor skills : cutting a straight line