I’m at Iglesia en la Luz de Jesu Cristo. Normal church service, but different. A man walked in and sat on the front row. I don’t know his name but I recognize him. This morning I saw him outside our gate. I heard a strange noise and saw a stumbling man weave along the dirt road. First thoughts: he’s drunk, don’t go outside. This is a normal thought process after you’ve been traveling from country to country for 2+ years. I looked to the gate and was immediately greeted by a toothless smile and a wave. This man was not drunk. He was handicapped, perhaps. He was also more joyful about the hot and beautiful morning than I was. I waved back and matched his smile, only with teeth.
Church was about to start and this same, familiar, joyful man sat front and center. Our worship was wonderful. Most worship is in Latin America. I highly recommend the experience. Before the last song I see Ever hand the second mic to our interesting friend. Nothing comes out of his mouth except high squeals. Ever’s confidence made me think that this is a regular Sunday thing. I didn’t know what to think or expect, but my skepticism and judgement was quickly stifled when the two of them stood on stage, side-by-side and worshiped one God. They sounded entirely different, but equally as passionate. I was so embarrassed that my doubt limited my expectations of worship. Nothing in the world was as beautiful to the ears of the Lord than his squeals. I could see 100% of his heart and I was in awe of his genuine love for the same father I call upon. His father is my father.
The song ended and he returned to his seat. Before sitting down he knelt on the floor to bow before his God. His smile never left his face. The presence of God was obvious upon him. Now I sit two rows back from where he is and I can smell his body odor. But you know what? I don’t even mind. Did I think I would ever see that man from the dirt road again? Did I think I would ever be learning from his life and love for the Lord? No.
My tiny limited mind makes judgments. My view of who he was or what he had the ability to do was flipped on it’s head. I’m thankful Ever didn’t see him with limited expectations. I’m thankful for this man and his joy. I’m thankful for lessons that put me in my place and open my eyes. I’m thankful that there is AMAZINGLY more to people than I can see. I’m thankful I’m not the judge of the heart of another. I’m thankful my day was started and ended unexpectedly with one toothless man and his joy.
