Written By Blessing Davis,
Academy for G.O.D. Intern at GOD Intl Community Services
Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the wonderful privilege of working with G.O.D. International’s Community Services Department as part of my curriculum at the Academy for G.O.D. High School. This opportunity allowed me to support ELL (English Language Learning) classes for the Hispanic community. My journey with this community started when I was just fifteen, after a life-changing mission trip to El Salvador. During the trip, I faced the difficulty of communicating across a language barrier, which sparked a deep calling within me to serve people who experience that same struggle daily.
Determined to make a difference, I began learning Spanish, and through this journey, I discovered just how humbling it is to learn a new language. There were times when I became frustrated with myself, tempted to give up. But those moments reminded me of the importance of perseverance and empathy for those who are just starting their own language-learning journey.
That’s why I was so excited when I was given the opportunity to spend time with the children of ELL students while their parents attended classes. One of the children I got to know was a sweet little girl named Nerea. Normally, Nerea would sit with her mom during class, often using her phone to pass the time. But with me, we had the chance to play with toys, build with magnet tiles, blow bubbles, and color. Nerea brought so much joy to our time together, and I’m grateful for the moments I shared with her.
At times, my role felt less impactful than those in the classroom, where teachers are directly engaging with the students. I questioned whether what I was doing mattered as much. But then, last week, Nerea saw me and excitedly exclaimed, “¡Es ella, es ella!” which means, “It’s her, it’s her!” Nerea’s mom was explaining how happy she was to spend time playing with me. In that moment, I realized that even the smallest acts of service can make a big difference in someone’s life.
This experience reminded me of a verse from Luke 16:10: “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.” Even though I am still a student, my role is important, and what I offer can make a meaningful impact. Whether big or small, all acts of service matter, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to serve this amazing community.
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