Friday, October 24, 2014

El Salvador Day 1 - 2014

It takes while to realize where you are.  Definitely does not look like Kansas, Toto.  A lost suitcase?  Just a distraction.  Let it go.  We will figure it out later.  Or at least that is what you keep telling yourself.  I start to think about detachment.  I have an ongoing discussion with many of my friends about my theory about when things go wrong.  I believe that when  things go wrong, it is a distraction because something really great is about to happen and if we allow ourselves to be consumed by it, we will miss the good.  The good is there, always there, just look.  Our first stop is a center for cerebral palsy.  The center does many wonderful things for those who have the disease.  They serve families who work and need a place where there loved ones can grow in a nurturing environment during the day, some longer.  As we came in we were warmly welcomed.  One young man named Jonathan was very loving and gregarious (picture below). 









He would grab our wrists and he did not want to let go. When he saw another smiling face he would make a welcoming motion to shake the person's hand.  As Jonathan walked with us he seemed so happy.  He made noises, his language affected by the disease, and drooled quite a bit.  We broke through our inhibitions and did our best to love him.  His happiness made everyone smile. We were struck by his desire to meet everyone and walk along with us as we took a tour of this impressive but needy facility.  He was so happy to be with us.  Finally as we reached near the end of the tour, the staff pryed him away from us.  The young man cried.  It was so hard to watch.  As we left we saw that he had to be restrained.  All he wanted was to be with us.  As we reflected later in the ride back from the airport, after retrieving our very late bags, the parallels to our relationships to Christ are obvious.  When we allow Christ to meet us, we are filled with happiness and joy.  When we restrain him, we are sorrowful.  We met Christ today and his name is Jonathan.  I'm sure we will meet another Jesus tomorrow.  Praise Him!


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