As Father’s Day approaches, we’re reflecting on more than just the role of being a dad. One team member’s “ah-ha” moment shares about the power of presence, the joy of serving, and the deep privilege of passing something on—something lasting.
“Now I Get Why You Love Your Job So Much.”
“Now I get why you love your job so much.”
That’s what my 14-year-old daughter, Leah, said to me after a week of serving alongside me on an open trip to the DR. She’s always had a basic understanding of what I do at Kids Around The World—but this time, she stepped into the mission herself. And everything changed.
It was Leah’s first time outside the country. Everything—the culture, the language, the poverty, the people—was new. Watching her eyes open to the world around her and watching her respond with compassion and a willingness to serve—it moved me more than I ever expected.
It reminded me why we do what we do. Through Leah’s fresh eyes, I saw it all over again.
Back in March 2023, I helped build a playground in the community of Los Pajuiles. During that trip, I bonded with a small group of local kids. We laughed, played, and connected in ways that didn’t need perfect language—just presence and joy.
That’s something I’ve always valued.
Whether it’s with my own daughter or a child across the world, I believe in the power of being present. Just showing up—to play, to listen, to encourage—can echo the truth that God meets us exactly where we are.
Even though we didn’t speak the same language fluently, something meaningful formed between us. Saying goodbye was tough, and I didn’t know if I’d ever get to see those kids again.
Fast forward to 2024. Our team had the chance to return to Los Pajuiles. I couldn’t wait to reunite with my amigos—and this time, Leah was with me!
As we walked toward the playground, one of the little girls I had met the year before came sprinting toward me with a huge smile. She threw her arms around me and didn’t let go.
I told her—in my same broken Spanish—that I still think of and pray for her and her friends. As we wrapped up our conversation, I said, “Remember that Jesus loves you, and so do I.”
She looked up at me and, in perfect English, said, “I love you.”
In that moment, it felt like her heart was responding to the love of Christ she had felt. And it reminded me that what we do goes far deeper than just a job or a mission trip.
Leah witnessed that moment. And as we walked away, she said thoughtfully, “Dad, I think I understand now why you love your job so much.”
I can’t tell you what that meant to me.
We had meaningful conversations throughout the trip, and I saw her grow— in confidence, in compassion, and in her understanding of the world. That week didn’t just change her. It changed us. It drew us closer as father and daughter. And I believe it planted seeds that God will continue to grow in her heart.
If I could speak to any other dad—or any parent—considering a mission trip with their child, I’d say this:
Do it. Run—don’t walk.
It’s not just a trip. It’s a window into God’s heart. Watching Leah begin to “get it,” to step outside herself, to see others with compassion—that was one of the most meaningful moments of fatherhood I’ve ever had.
In that moment, I caught a glimpse of what God must feel when we, His children, begin to understand His heart for the world.
Brian Wahl, Regional Director of Mission Advancement, is known for his deep love of being a dad—and for his authentic, joyful spirit. Grateful for the opportunity to serve, he approaches his work with purpose and heart—whether dancing at a meal packing event or spending time with children in our global communities!
Let’s celebrate FATHER’S DAY by building something that lasts far beyond the day—a legacy of love in action.
Whether you’re a dad, know a great one, or simply believe in the power of shared purpose CONSIDER HOW YOU MIGHT…
- PRAY for generations to rise up through legacies of love that impact the world.
- JOIN US as a family—serve together and grow in purpose, just as our Heavenly Father invites us into His work.
- SHARE this story to inspire others—strong parent/child bonds can ripple outward in God’s story of hope.
- GIVE FREELY so more children can experience a glimpse of their Heavenly Father’s love.