From Playtime to Purpose: Lessons from a CarePoint in Eswatini

When Grace B. signed up for the World Race, she imagined ministry might look like evangelism, service projects, or teaching. What she didn’t expect was that some of the most profound moments of transformation would happen through clapping games, baby snuggles, and sticky fingers holding hers tightly.

In Eswatini, Grace and her team serve at CarePoints – safe spaces where children go after school for a warm meal, a listening ear, and a whole lot of love. Grace spends her days holding babies in the morning and playing with older kids in the afternoon. “I am so thankful that we get to play with kids all day and show them the love of God,” she writes. “Since we’re not doing it by our strength, we can endure the days strong. God fills us up so that we can overflow to the kids.”

It’s the kind of simplicity that turns sacred: day after day of showing up, getting to know the same kids, learning their rhythms and their personalities. It’s where consistency breeds trust, and trust becomes the soil for relationships that reflect the heart of Jesus.

She shares about three children who have come to mean the world to her:

Busiswa is eight years old and full of life. She’s goofy, loving, and expressive, a joy-filled firecracker who clings to Grace’s side. “May we cling to You the way she clings to me,” Grace prays.

Bonega, age ten, is a quiet leader, one who notices others and steps in when someone needs a friend. Her words are thoughtful, her laughter contagious. “May we be as intentional with You as she is with everyone.”

Sino, also ten, carries a deep story. After losing both parents, she stepped into a caretaker role for her younger siblings. The CarePoint helped her return to school. Reserved at first, her trust unfolds into brilliant smiles and witty conversations. “May we look up and smile at You the way she looks up and smiles at me.”

Each child reflects a different facet of God’s heart. Grace’s reflections aren’t just about who she’s met – they’re about how God is using each encounter to shape her own story, too.

From Stranger to Family

Eswatini has also changed how the team views community. “Everyone greets everyone,” Grace says. “It’s considered rude if you don’t.” Coming from a culture that leaned more reserved, this warmth has softened her heart and opened doors. What started as quick hellos have become long talks, and cautious glances have turned into children sleeping peacefully in her arms.

There’s something powerful about becoming part of a community – not as an outsider or a helper, but as a friend, a neighbor, a familiar face. Grace has learned that consistency and care often speak louder than words.

What This Teaches Us

• Ministry is often quieter than we expect. It’s showing up, over and over again.
  
• Kids see the Kingdom clearly. Their honesty, trust, and joy teach us about God.
  
• Real connection takes time. But when it comes, it’s deeply meaningful and full of grace.
  

Want to Experience This for Yourself?

If your heart comes alive at the idea of relational ministry and showing the love of God through your presence, consider joining the World Race. You’ll have the chance to serve at CarePoints like Grace did and discover how God moves through play, presence, and persistence.

Upcoming World Race Opportunities:

• Expedition Route 3 | August 2025
  Traveling to Guatemala, Albania, Greece, Turkey, Nepal, and South Asia.
  For ages 21–30.
  

Don’t wait. The world is waiting for you, and so is the story God wants to write through your life. Explore Trips Now ➝