Through the eyes of a child... Art in Motion.

By: Mary Katherine Segrest

My time at Mission First began as an opportunity to serve with the Junior League of Jackson, but ended in blessings upon blessings from the Lord. When I was driving in my car on Monday morning, I prayed that the week would be wonderful and the kids would have a great time and learn a lot. Then, I arrived at Mission First and knew right away that this week was going to be more than an “art camp.”

A few weeks ago, I received my assignment for the camp. I was to be the t-shirt coordinator and photographer. Although I was unsure of the title of t-shirt coordinator, I was very excited about being the photographer. I thought it was a coincidence that I worked as an assistant to a wedding photographer and this would be my 'job' for the week... but as a follower of Jesus, I should know better than to bank on coincidence! It was all God. As I floated around campus snapping my camera, I got to witness PURE JOY. The children were full steam ahead! They jumped in and were ready to learn. When I looked back at my pictures later, I saw it plain as day.

..the joy in their eyes.

…the focus and desire to do good.

…the love for each other and for the adults serving them.

…the excitement for all of the neat activities that they participated in during the week.

The kids gave out hugs freely. By the second day, the smiles came more easily to my camera lens as well! If this 'coincidence' had not occurred, I would not have gotten the same experience. I was able to meet and see everyone in every area. By the grace of God, I toted my camera from room to room - and was HAPPY about it! (I have to mention that I also played some serious games of dodge ball!) I laughed and laughed with them as they danced for us. I was blessed by watching the staff at Mission First love on the children. It made my heart happy to see the other volunteers love on the kids - and the kids open up and love them back! I loved seeing the boys and girls SO proud on Friday night - when they showed their parents/families what they had learned during the week! The artwork, music, drama... they did so well and worked so hard.

I left Mission First Friday night very tired. But it was a pure, happy tired. My cup overflowed with blessings from the week. I take with me the look of pure joy in the eyes of those children - simple JOY that only God can give in the eyes of the child. I look forward to serving there again.