Lifts lowered wheelchairs to the ground. Special friends departed busses and vans. Camp staff lined the sidewalk and cheered arriving campers. Every special needs young person came with a buddy for the weekend.
Young people from all over Florida, came to Young Life’s Capernaum camp. Some traveled for hours to spend a wonderful weekend nestled in the Ocala National Forest. Adult leaders, college and high school students gave up a long weekend to serve and love unconditionally their friends. For three days, I marveled at the dedication of the buddies and how they tirelessly helped those who often are rejected by society. The joy and smiles of each friend and buddy touched my heart over and over.
The first evening during the carnival, music played. Dancers jammed the area. Games and popcorn added to the festivities. Plates of whipped cream went onto leaders’ faces. Excitement filled the air.
My eight-year-old granddaughter, Molly, and her friend worked at the tattoo table. Each person selected a unicorn tattoo. The young girls held wet paper towels over each tattoo while the line lengthened.
The line grew longer and longer so I started helping out. One young man picked out a tattoo from the designs I showed him. While I held the paper towel on his arm, he looked at me tenderly. Without a word, he placed his hand over mine until the tattoo was secure. Tears pricked my eyes.
Though I was there to help him, his touch of kindness soothed my heart. He never spoke but continued to smile. Then he was gone and off for more fun.
That evening began three days of love and service. Instead of listening to news filled with horrible events, I witnessed genuine love and acceptance.
Most of all friends, always rejoice in the Lord. I never tire of saying rejoice. Rejoice! Keep your gentle nature so that all people will know what it looks like to walk in His footsteps. (Philippians 4: 4 The Voice)
Loving Father, thank you for loving interactions between widely different people. All precious in your sight. Amen
No comments:
Post a Comment