We've been living in the KIM community for awhile now and I have come to really appreciate this place. Each morning a market manifests outside the YMC gate just below our window. The streets are lined with all sorts of fruits, veggies, rolls and various other goods. Mr. Darcy and Savage start their work early to welcome, and turn away, guests. The street kids are very respectful of these two based on what they see from the outside of the gates. Were they inside, I expect their timidity would melt away and they would experience Savage leaning up against their legs sending the not so subtle hint for more loving and Mr. Darcy in his most intimidating posture.
I adore these two pups. Each has his quirk, a tongue that won't stay in and ears that are forever turned out. The dogs actually capture a beautiful aspect of the character of this place. The street kids judge the dogs based on what they can see and subsequently reject the potential for love. Beyond the gates, however, the reverse is true. Arms open wide, the heartbeat of this ministry is to embrace each individual for their quirks and extend love to the soul they see beyond surface appearances.
Just a nanny, a driver, a mush scraper, a nurse, a cook, or a domestic helper. "Just" is spoken in error. Over the last few weeks, the Lord has heightened my awareness to the small army of faithful Filipinos that keep this entity running. Moreover, opportunities have fallen into my lap to hear their stories, and they each have stories. While I am certainly moved by the heart wrenching reality of the orphan and the sweet smiles of babies showing up at feedings, what has really caught my attention are the hearts that endure the heartache month in and month out. Those that out of their own hurt are moved to compassion and steadfast consistency to ensure good work is happening in their community. It is in fact the nanny, the driver, the mush scraper, the nurse, the cook and the domestic helper that inspire me to serve without hope of recognition and to love even when it is uncomfortable.
Driving to a feeding three words fell over me, "I see you." Amidst the poverty, the injustice of a girl having to find refuge on our front porch, instead of at home, because her father had came home in a intoxicated rage, and every single prayer request at our small group study being for family, that is, hope of having one some day, the cloud of wondering if God has forgotten this place has not fallen over me. Rather, I am completely convinced He see's all of it. And the truth of the matter is it breaks His heart more than it does mine.
He see's shanty after shanty lined up and he adds his touch to the decor by placing new growth, in a bright yellow flower amidst three spider webs, in the door way and gently whispers, "I am with you." He doesn't just see the darling babes that line up for food, He also sees the shy faces that peek out of near by shacks curious about all the bustle but too uncertain to leave their shadowy refuge. He is all too aware of the faithful Filipino team that is urgently working to share with their community a hope worth hoping in.
"I see you."
I see you too inspiring friends and with your permission I'd like to share your stories…
