It was September 15th, 2010. I was packed and ready to jump on a plane to Jeremie, Haiti on a two week trip; a two week trip that would change my life forever. I remember being told that I would be on the trash team. It was an instant disappointment, though in the back of my mind I knew that the Lord had something to show me, something to reveal through this small act of service. "But God, Trash?!?"
One of the places that we would often visit was called "The Point." It was heart wrenching to see the children running into this filthy water. Some of them were bathing, some drinking, some just trying to catch a break from the extreme humidity. Imagine a child running in to our sewage system to bathe.
In the midst of the heat, I was drenched in sweat, eager to end this day of service... until I saw him. I saw the little boy that I had been crazy about since day 1. This nameless, naked child was running to me, dodging anything and everything in his path to pursue me. As soon as he reached me, I was quick to pick up his small body and pull him in for a tight hug. This "hug" concept must have still been new to him. His limbs were still tentative to succumb to the love I wanted to so badly to show him: the love of Jesus through this small act.
Look into his eyes. Do you see the pain I see? Do you see loneliness? Do you see the emptiness?
This nameless boy has prompted an urgency in my heart, an urgent need to reveal the LOVE of JESUS to the lost in Jeremie, Haiti.
It has not been the easiest road thus far. Though, my fears and insecurites have subsided for the sake of answering the call of my Father. And, now, just as this nameless boy had run into my arms, I am running into the arms of my Father. I am running full speed, past and around anything that may get in my way. I am in pursuit of this LOVE and opportunity to give it back.
