our friend 'chelle

Seems our blog has become quite the place for introductions....we have another one for you.

We have a friend named Michelle.  Actually, we have a few friends named Michelle.  The Michelle in this particular post is the Michelle that we call 'Chelle.  She's one of the photographers on the ship....and oh! the gift she has for using her camera as a worship instrument!  She takes pictures that capture the heart and essence of people and situations.  So many of the pictures you see on the Mercy Ships' website or Facebook page or throughout the blogs of so many were taken by 'Chelle.  

Not only is she a gifted photographer, she is a thoughtful and faithful friend.  There have been so many times when she's blessed us with an encouraging word...or an unexpected cup of ice and a coke....or a conversation that reaches the depths of our being.  She is a precious part of the Cash Family's community here on the Africa Mercy.  

The other day she sent us an email with a picture attached...we wanted to share it with you...

"Today, the preschool kids were playing on the dockside with some of the younger patients. Josh and I were able to take a few photos and videos of the interaction. I captured this moment with Emma and Selvie, so I wanted to pass it along. Emma was so sweet and kind to Selvie, playing ball and singing Ring Around the Roses with her and a few other friends.  It was a moment where I saw Emma’s place in this community, where she, too, can share the love of Christ with patients and classmates. I am so thankful that Emma, that your whole family, is a part of this community."

What a treasure...in so many ways.

It's nice to be reminded of the ways God is at work in and through us - and in and through our children.  

We do each have a place...a place to share the love of Christ.  Maybe it's on a dock playing with a patient who is waiting to have surgery...or maybe it's in a cubicle at the Synovus building in Columbus, GA....or maybe it's at a kitchen counter as you take care of and teach your little ones....or maybe it's at a nursing home in Upper Sandusky, Ohio.  Wherever you are....

You are right where God's love needs to be shared.  

Surely there will be more to come.