Eyes

I'm not sure this blog will adequately express my thoughts and feelings. To be honest, I'm not even really sure where to begin. The people are so beautiful. Their eyes tell the story, with each set telling a different scene. There are eyes that silently scream, "Help me…please help me." Others show uncertainty and fear. Still others (most others) tell the story of relentless joy despite the circumstances they face. I would love to journey back with the elder man to when he was just a young boy. We could experience life through his aged and tired eyes. I wonder what I would see. I wonder what they see in my eyes. Allow me a brief moment to tell you about one set of those eyes I met today.

As we jammed into a one room building with at least 220 locals, one small boy who looked to be 8 or so (he later told us he was 13) stood to address the crowd. He introduced himself as George. George boldly stood and proclaimed how thankful he was to have our team come and provide bedding for his community. He started to tell us his personal story of tragedy and hardship only to be overwhelmed by tears. George quickly sat down embarrassed by his breakdown. The older women told George to stop crying because big boys don't cry. Later, I was privileged to sit down with George as Jen interviewed him. George's mother and father were killed by the rebels when he was younger. George and his two siblings are now cared for by his ailing grandmother. Since the passing of his parents, George is required to provide for his family by working as a gardener. His greatest desire is to be educated so that he may become a politician who serves his local community. George's eyes tell a story of bravery and ambition.

Now, as I sit in a comfortable hotel room after filling my stomach, I can't help but to think of those like George. Two questions have weighed heavy on my mind each night. I'm not sure I have the answer to either of them. But, I would like to share them with you:

1. How can we possibly meet the needs of all these people? I know we have been given an opportunity to provide for some; but, what about the others? I feel hopeless.

2. How will my life, ministry, and marriage be different upon returning home? Is there a proper balance in which to live? How will things be different for God's grace and glory?

So, how do you see the world around you? What story will others see as they look into your eyes?

Hebrews 12:2 – "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…"

David Kephart

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