Sunday, January 30, 2011

THE NEW GIG

Today I started my new "job" at church.  If you are not familiar how we do things in the Mormon Church, this is one of those things we do that is a little strange to people.   We are a lay ministry and have no paid leaders.  Our leaders are regular joes with regular jobs to do Monday thru Friday.   We are "called" to positions by those who are currently in charge, who spend some time in thought and prayer to figure out where we can help build the kingdom of God right now.   I  have spent the last eight years working with the women of the church.  I love the women of the church, they are amazing.   So imagine my surprise when I am asked to work with the children who are 18 months to around 3 years old in the nursery.  Culture shock!!! 

Today I laid on the floor and made animal noises with the most adorable blond headed little boy.  He giggled when I did my "pig" impression. (It's time to trade in my dry-clean only suits for something a little more comfortable and easy to wash!)   I held a teary eyed little girl until the train looked more fun than crying.  I sang songs I had forgotten,  pretended to "eat" several items that were "fed" to me by adorable little people, and was able to also share a graham cracker during snack time.   I listened to little tiny voices offer prayers and watched small children fold their arms, bow their heads and close their eyes to talk to God, and yes, they know him. 

It's been said that if the Savior showed up at church, he would immediately go to the classes where the children are.  I know that to be true.  He loves the little children.  I am so excited to get to spend time with people that are so sweet, kind and pure.  They love without question and are happy with little things, like singing "Once there was a snowman" and eating fruit snacks.  These are some of the things I have forgotten.

I am so grateful for not getting to "choose" where I want to serve.  By sometimes getting pulled out of our comfort zones, we grow.  And isn't that why were are here on this journey?   To grow...... one random woman at a time. 

4 comments:

  1. Oh how sweet! I wish I was there to see it. It looks like I am the only one with out a new calling yet.

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  2. Well said. I remember when I was called as Primary President I nearly died. I honestly thought that those who bore testimony about truly loving the primary children were just offering lip service. After 3+ years in primary leadership...I can honestly say I love those kids. I remember crying at their sweet spirits during the primary program. Up till that point (even when my own kids were in them) I dreaded primary programs. Just goes to show why we are "called" and not allowed to choose our callings.

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  3. I love that you are in nursery! Such a sweet place to be with those adorable little ones. When I was called to teach Sunday School to the 14-15 year olds, I was totally caught off guard. Didn't want to do it and now after just a couple of weeks, I love it! I would never have put myself there, but it is the perfect place for me right now. Amazing how the church operates! Love it! Love you! Susan

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  4. I think you are amazing in like, a thousand different ways. Once again, your post made me teary... unfortunately there isn't a train lying around to cheer me up. :)

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