Nearly every afternoon, after driving into a slum or
impoverished community and before dinner, I step outside the KIM compound to
find children playing in the streets. I have befriended a few of them and have found
a particular favorite by the name of Chris. At 9, he tells tall tales, plays a
fierce game of basketball, leads a group of younger boys, asks me a dozen
questions, is as enthusiastic about my ‘sneaky snake high-five’ as I am, and
has taught me a few games that need nothing more than time, a friend, and the
dirt on the side of the road.
I look forward to our daily game time, which tends
to entail high fives, running, and talking. His intelligent brown eyes, fast
legs, and inquiring demeanor all come together to keep me on my toes. This child
has lived in and around the streets since he was 5 and it is evident in the way
he carries himself.
A few days ago, when asked why I joined The World
Race, my answer included my love of missions, adventure, and travel. Now-it is
because of Chris and children and adults like him. They are created in God’s
image and loved by Christ and I know that I am called to love and care for them
to the best of my ability. Chris is the reason why I joined The World Race.
