a simple prayer

I think many of you have heard stories about my super sweet and special student this year, Kang-Hee, from Korea. At the beginning of the year, Kang-Hee wouldn't talk, except to himself, as he played with the flags that he drew from all over the world. Kang-Hee is fascinated with flags and other countries, and knows more about this world that I do! It took him a long time to warm up to all of us, almost as if he were testing the waters to see if he would be accepted, because for so long, he hasn't been.

And he was. We all embraced him this year and yes, there are challenging days, but the blessings by far outweigh the challenges. He has taught us to laugh more and think "outside the box." :) He has taught us all about China and the Middle East, and every war that has ever been fought. He has taught my students about differences and loving people in spite of their differences and unique qualities. His prayers have humbled me and astounded me, and brought us to tears as well. At the beginning of the year, Kang-Hee refused to pray as well. He said he hated God because God made his eyes hurt, and he didn't have any desire to talk to this God. But throughout the year, Kang-Hee has learned so much in Bible, and he has even asked questions and now, he's the first one to pray. He prays for all the countries that are in any kind of conflict. He prays for everyone; he prays for people that we even forget we were praying for. He remembers them all. His English still isn't great, but he can pray continously until you tell him, ok, Kang-Hee, let's let someone else pray. It's beautiful.

But even now, he's very open with all of us in his class, but is very shy in public. However, last week, for Easter chapel, as I stood in front of the entire elementary to close us in prayer at the end, Kang-Hee ran up beside me and tugged at my pants and said, "Teacher, teacher, Miss Griggs, I pray." He was so eager. There was a split second where I thought, should I really let him pray? There's no telling what he might say! :) And this is in front of the ENTIRE elementary. OK, what should I do? So I just smiled and said, ok everyone, Kang-Hee is delivering our prayer. Please bow your heads and close your eyes. And what came next was a simple, but precious reminder of how great our Father is. He spoke boldly and perfectly and said, "Dear God, thank you for chapel. Thank you for Friday for the death on the cross. Thank you for cross on Friday so we go to heaven. Thank you for coming alive again. Love you Jesus. Amen." Then, ALL the kids started cheering and clapping up a storm for him. It might have seemed like such a simple moment for an outsider, but for all of us...Kang-Hee's family...it was incredible. My headmaster leaned over and whispered, "They really love him don't they?" All the teachers had tears in our eyes.

This young boy has blessed us so much this year through his joy, his outlook on life, and in his weaknesses and struggles as well. I know the Holy Spirit is alive at KICS. He's alive and working! After the chapel service, I emailed Kang-Hee's parents who are traveling in the U.S. right now to raise funds for Food for the Hungry. And I want to share his dad's response with you after he heard Kang-Hee had prayed that prayer, and even in public...

Hi, Ms. Griggs



Praise the Lord!


This is something unbelievable!!!!


I know he knows the story of Jesus, but I didn’t expect he confess his belief through his mouth.


If it is true his faith, I do not have any concern about his future anymore…


Thank you very much for this good news!!!

With many blessings,


Kang Hee’s dad.


He is ALIVE and working here at KICS, in so many childrens' lives and their parents too! Thank you all for praying for this young man. He's a true joy in my life! :)