As we moved a few blocks from the train station, a member of the ministry team purchased some tea and cookies for some of the boys. I was sitting in the car, composing myself from the last experience when a hand knocked on the window. A boy offered me one of the two cookies they had been given. I refused. They pleaded with me. Remembering the scripture story of the woman and her mite, I obliged so I wouldn't hurt their feelings. They then huddled together on a corner and split the other cookie between themselves. My heart both leapt and broke to be the recipient of such a lavish gift.
Nothing compared, however, to what awaited me at a slum this morning. I visited a little seven-year-old boy who we had discovered was very ill. His name is Santush. Both his parents died within the last year and he is living in a "room" the size of a bathroom with his grandmother. He is so very ill. He looked half his age, was incredibly under-nourished and was dripping with perspiration from a burning fever. He greeted me with a weak smile and an outstretched hand as he sat on a bed made of filthy rags. I was amazed. I held him close after he immediately allowed me to place his feeble body onto my lap. We talked through the interpreter for a bit and described his situation for the camera. In a few months, you will be able to see footage of this little warrior.
After a while, he glanced upwards and said softly, "pa-pa." I turned around to see a picture of his father on a shelf up above. I wanted to sob. I took it down and placed it beside me and proceeded to try to talk to the camera on his behalf. In the midst of my words, his tiny hands tenderly stroked the face of his father. Over and over again. I was silenced. In the midst of this, dust and dirt from the picture kept falling on my pant leg. He then began to do something I will never ever forget. He gently reached down and brushed it off. I could hardly catch my breath. I literally felt the hand of Jesus. It was one of the most beautiful feelings that I have ever had run through my body.
All I thought about the rest of the day was Jesus saying, "If you do this to the least of these you do it to me." I realized that I "lived into" those words today. I also realized that I understand so little about the truth of the scriptures and the amazing love of God. It makes me yearn to know more. Jesus was in that room today. It was truly holy. He was alive in that little boy. I encountered him a way I never have before.
I had an idea of how I wanted my year to begin but Jesus had a much better and bigger plan. He wanted me to experience His love in a much deeper way--and He wanted me to understand that I must continue to give it away in return. My eyes have seen and my heart now has responsibility.
I couldn't go to sleep without sharing this with all of you. Bless you this year, my friends. I am thanking God for His grace.
Kathy
