Francis and Monica Bijah

Brother and sister, Francis and Monica

Francis and his watercolor painting

Monica and I

Francis and Monica have a very special place in my heart. They are extraordinary children with hearts so full of love and an indescrible joy in the Lord. When I first met Monica I was struck by her beautiful face that lit up with such joy! Her loving embrace made me feel so loved and special. She was a blessing and each time I would see her, her love and joy that she so freely gave was felt in the huge hug I received. I miss her dearly and look forward to the day we can be together again when I visit. Her brother Francis was amazing too. I had him in my fifth grade watercolor class. The moment Francis walked into my class he had a huge smile on his face with a huge loving hug waiting for me. My heart was so full of joy and excitement to be with these children at the Village of Hope orphanage. They truly reflected the beauty of Christ...their faces simply glowed! The second time I had Francis' class, we decorated cards with stamps and wrote letters. Francis wrote me the most beautiful letter that brought tears to my eyes when I read it. He wrote:

"Dear Jenny, I am very excited to write you this letter. The reason is that, I thank you so much for your care and concern for us your student and helping us. May God who gives generously to all without finding fault richly bless you in all you do. And always remember that, all things work good for those wh0 love the Lord, and for that matter, continue to do the great work that you are doing in the name of the Lord and love the Lord with all your heart, soul, strength, and mind. May God bless you. With much love, Francis Bijah"

Monica also wrote me a wonderful letter in response to the letter I wrote her. She wrote:

"Jenny, thank you very much for your great letter you have given to me. When I recieved it I was so glad. I will continue to pray for you and your family. You are so great to me. You always make me feel happy. Thank you very much. Send my greeting to daddy Ed, Cathy, and your brother. May God richly bless you. I love you. And God loves you too."

Francis and Monica are gifts from God. Their lives truly reflect the heart of Christ, and I was so honored to be able to impact their lives just as much as they impacted mine. God is so good!!!!!!