Praying for the Unseen

A couple weeks ago, I saw a sight that has stayed with me since. Please know I have debated on sharing this, but I believe when truths are revealed that is when healing can come. I saw one of the teachers at the orphanage slap one of our girls in the face, repeatedly. One of our girls began to cuss the teacher and talk back, apparently it had been an on gong thing and the teacher finally had it, and slapped her. Although I never condone hitting a child, I could see this usually calm, caring teacher was at her wits end. I could see that the girl's words hurt her and she was overwhelmed with anger. This scene played over and over again in my mind and I questioned what my own actions would have been had it been me. I also questioned what other things are happening that I don't see? It got my mind thinking about all the struggles our kids have gone through, and are going through. I shudder to think about the abuse our kids have suffered, the pain and grief they have felt at such young ages. I see the effects of this pain, the desire to smoke, drink and find comfort in sexual actions. I think of one of our girls last year who left the orphanage, only 15 because she was pregnant. I think of how her life will be now, no education, no means to provide, attempting to take care of a baby. I remember thinking when I heard about her, and my disbelief.... I would have never guessed she was sexually active. Sometimes admitting our kids partake in sexual actions, drinking and smoking and violence is too much to take, and I have to focus on the positive. I know there is darkness that exists in the orphanage and as much as I don't want to think of my innocent children partaking in actions so dark and harmful, I have to admit it is there and pray. I pray for change, I pray for these kids hearts and eyes to be open to the truth. I pray the teachers and staff would have soften hearts and take refuge in the God above. I pray through our work at the orphanage the kids will learn and see there are other ways to deal with their emotions than violence, drugs and sex. I pray their eyes would be open to the consequences of their actions. I pray for healing from past scars, I pray for the wisdom to teach, love and provide for our kids. Please pray with me, pray for the unseen, for the darkness and for light to reveal the truth. May our kids see themselves through the eyes of Christ, as valued, cherished and loved and worthy of more.