God's Peace at Sanchez Elementary

by Elana Quan, Dental Volunteer From Promised Land Fellowship

Although I had helped with GUM’s dental screening before, I was feeling a little apprehensive because this time I was coming without my boss, Dr. Yee. But when that morning came, I felt a deep sense of peace.  I left my house a little earlier just in case I got lost.  I made my way upstairs to where the dental screening was taking place and was greeted by several familiar faces, church volunteers I had worked with in previous years.  I was then introduced to my assistants, Beverly and Kathy, in my screening area.  As I sat in the chair waiting for my first child to arrive, I again experienced an amazing sense of peace, God’s perfect peace, for I knew that I had been prayed for.  As I observed all of the volunteers around me, I could really see the body of Christ functioning as it should—each person using their God-given gifts to serve the children at Sanchez Elementary School.  I saw some teaching the children how to brush and floss their teeth through stories, games and songs, while others guided the children to each of their stations. Some screened patients while another took photographs of the event.  Four hours flew by as I checked for cavities, gave oral hygiene instructions, got to know Beverly and Kathy better, and met many smiling children.  I found myself feeling sad about saying good-bye to the new friends I had made.  I am looking forward to next year to once again serve and be a part of this lovely body of Christ.  And I don’t think I’ll mind going alone.