Life’s Surprises

 The King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’ Matthew 25:40

One of the surprises of life for me over the years has been the blessing of meeting some of God’s children who have special needs.

In our home church in Philly there was a man by the name of Billy Meyers who faithfully stood at the door each week helping to greet people. Billy had some physical challenges – but his mind was sharp as can be.

During my time at Sandy Cove I had the privilege of meeting brothers and sisters who were residents at Echoing Hills, a Christ-centered care facility for folks with special needs. Many of them had cerebral palsy. Their bodies were twisted, many of them were in wheel chairs. Some of them drooled all over. For some reason, it never bothered me.  They touched my life in a special way. There was a love for God that was indescribable. And many of them couldn’t really articulate what was in there hearts.

Meet my friend, Donald. His caregiver has been bringing him to our Young at Heart conference. Most people shy away from him because he is different. His speech is really limited – mostly yes and no. He recently came and drew me a picture – it looks like something drawn by a pre-schooler, but it is a picture I will cherish.

This past week Donald was here for our Young at Heart conference. He was very animated throughout the week and you could tell he was having a great time. On Wednesday night we were singing the senior’s favorites and someone called out Jesus Loves Me.

I was moved to tears when I looked down and saw Donald with the biggest smile on his face singing EVERY word of this simple little kid’s song. Somehow despite his physical and mental challenges he comprehended this simple truth.

A famous theologian was asked to summarize the greatest truth of the Bible. To his audience he responded, “Jesus loves me this I know.

Some people don’t know how to handle people who are physically and mentally challenged and choose to stay clear of them. If you have never availed yourself of God’s special children – don’t pull away – embrace them and learn from them. You might just be surprised. – Dr. Bill Welte is President/CEO of America’s Keswick

Daily Bible Reading: Daniel 9-10

Think About This: If we fail to comprehend how much we are loved by God then there will be no energy to turn the machinery of our lives in the way [it was] meant to turn. Selwyn Hughes

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: I will be fully satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you.  On my bed I remember you; I think of you through the watches of the night. Psalm 63:5-6