When we were commissioned for our trip to Honduras we received a cross to remember the work of grace that God has wrought and is working in each of our lives. We were told there would come a time on our trip when we would feel led to share our cross with someone. You can read about this and more at www.fobf.org where our own Phil Dean is keeping you informed through a daily journal of our trip.
Yesterday, I gave my cross away. A thirteen year old boy came into our part of the clinic, his body’s posture already marked by the work and responsibility of his life. One friend from my childhood, then others came to mind as I saw this boy stoically sit and prepare to take his medicine.
Though his English and my Spanish was a match, (We both knew almost none.) I asked the translator to ask his grandmother was he a good worker and helper at home. She confirmed my first impression and I shared my cross and the words “let this cross remind you that Jesus is with you and Jesus will keep you strong”.
His hands and particularly his trying-to-heal finger showed the frequent use of the machette – their primary pruning tool. I pray for him, today – Jordin. I pray for him to know the strength of God’s Holy Spirit and the joy of the Lord that dwells within our heart as we love God and are loved by God.
I also got to hold and play with Naomi, a nine month old cutie that was just learning to walk. I’ll admit, she liked my name tag more than me but she reminded me of a certain someone whose initials are A.G. and I had to enjoy being granddaddy again. In other words, I was blessed beyond the blessing we hoped to share through our mission.