Shoes

They say you can tell much by a man's shoes. I study faces, body posture, I notice much, for perhaps the loudest things people say, they never speak. We are closing in on the end of our second day in Haiti, the women's meeting was a great success. I sit here on the church property quietly observing all manner of conversations and people. The young people met under the children's tent, another small group meets out in the open air, the women are gathered under the big tent that is to be replaced tomorrow. Children dance around me, laughing, stroking my hair, touching my white man's skin. Their fascination with me matches my own fascination with them. Out of their poverty, they practice such joy and contentment. It makes me cringe at the contrast to my own selfishness. It the midst of these observations I notice of all things tonight, shoes. Feet that often don't fit in the patten leather, flip flops an inch too short, a child in dress shoes wearing camo colored military style clothing. There is little fashion in Haiti. It is about getting by, not getting more. I recently received a gift of a pair of Keens sandals. The nicest I have ever worn, tonight I feel even more blessed by this gift. Who am I that I should posses such luxury, that I should walk in such comfort? Am I somehow more deserving than these amazing people. I was born in a different country, to a different blood, so that makes me worthy? I confess I will never fully understand the grace of God. The scope of my understanding is just too small. What I do understand is that I have been given much, and much will be required of me in the end. So here we are, those who have received much, to give as much as we can, and giving on behalf of so many who also practice this compulsion to love and share. Our gifts are winning hearts for the kingdom. And it is remarkable to witness. Our first full day on the ground is almost done, and it has been good. The first 48 hours of this journey always kicks you in the teeth, but this team has been steadfast, and I am grateful. Tomorrow is 'D' day, we cleared the property late tonight for the removal of one tent and the unfurling of the new. Pray for our success, that against and in spite of all obstacles, we erect a new worship arena for these incredible people where shoes don't matter, but hearts do. There are already so many stories coming to light, the success of these trips will never be fully measured this side of eternity, of this I am now confident. So now to rest and ready for day three, blessings to all our faithful!