Okay okay I think you can look at his photo and note we don't look much alike. And our boy lives in Kenya. So we don't even share a home with him. Heck, he's not even blood related! And you probably guessed it, we sponsor our boy through Compassion International. He's going to be 18 in December, so look for that birthday wish (although he doesn't have internet access, I'll let him know I posted for him). Last year, we picked Gervasio out of the photo lineup on the site because he was nearing the age of no longer being eligible for Compassion sponsorship, which he will now receive until he is 21.
Like always, I tore into my latest letter from Gervasio, received today. I was humbled as I usually am. He had received our gift a few months back of a mere extra $25 for his family and $10 for himself. He shares with us that he purchased a bed, black beans, something I can't read, and 'some sweets to share with my friends.' I'm guessing the $25 was the price for the bed, but I'm not sure. But just how rich this beautiful beautiful boy must have felt as he purchased what is an everyday pleasure to us--sweets. And shared with his friends!! Who wouldn't be so proud of Gervasio? It shows how a very small amount will make a big difference. As well as the Spirit of Christ--he was being Christ to his friends when he shared something so rare and special.
But between the lines, and corrections, I came to a part that saddened me deeply. Towards the bottom, he wrote that since the last holiday (this is dated in August, so I'm guessing summer break?) he has been unable to 'continue with school'. I knew he had been sick but he last wrote he was better. It appears the sickness had invaded his body again and interrupted his life. Although he says he is better, I worry this reprieve might be temporary. And I worry he is off track with his education now. He has hopes and dreams like most teenagers. He wants to go to medical school and be a doctor. I would guess any child who has seen so much sickness and death would want to be part of the solution.
I'm hoping all my friends who read this will honor Gervasio and lift him up in prayer for complete healing and for direction. If you read the letter, you will get a glimpse of Gervasio's amazing personality, his love for the Lord, and his concern for others. I don't find that terribly often anymore, and I think Gervasio is special. Incidentally, if you find yourself over at Compassion's site, beware, you're going to want to sponsor. The faces will capture your heart before you can hit the back button...I am only warning you.
We also have a second daughter, Catherine--but that's another post. She's a sweetheart of 11 living her life in Nicaragua. Always making things with paper and mailing them to us--I'll scan one soon.....
