During a visit to an East Africa hospital, I met a 10-year-old boy, Joseph, who is severely disfigured. A nurse explained that when Joseph was an infant his mother set him on fire. Though he miraculously survived, his left leg was burned to a mere stub. His right is permanently bent backwards, with webbed toes that were heavily damaged by the flames. Joseph’s left hand is missing two fingers, and, despite multiple operations, his wrist bone protrudes from the skin.
I held Joseph as the nurse changed his bandages, and was amazed when he confidently said to me, “The Lord’s going to make me well!”
I believe Joseph is right. Though I don’t know when or how God will bring healing to the child, I trust Isaiah who prophesied that one day the Lord will come, “and when He comes, He will open the eyes of the blind and unplug the ears of the deaf. The lame will leap like a deer, and those who cannot speak will sing for joy!” (Isaiah 35:5-6).
But for now, we live in an age where homes and communities around the world contain broken, hurting people. These individuals, like Joseph, are in dire need of our love and care. The apostle Paul told God’s people to “take tender care of those who are weak” (1 Thessalonians 5:14). His words echo the words of King Solomon in Psalm 72 as he implored God’s people to:
• Judge others in a right and righteous way (Psalm 72:2).
• Let the poor always be treated fairly (Psalm 72:2).
• Defend the poor and afflicted (Psalm 72:4).
• Rescue the children of the needy (Psalm 72:4).
What can you do today to be a blessing to a physically impaired person in your community?
More:
He feels pity for the weak and the needy, and He will rescue them. He will redeem them from oppression and violence, for their lives are precious to Him (Psalm 72:13-14).
Next:
How does it reflect God’s heart to care for those who are weak? What keeps you from reaching out to those who are physically impaired?
tom felten on November 9, 2010 at 8:43 am
Thanks for sharing this poignant, powerful story, Roxanne. I’m in awe of Joseph’s inspired faith! (Matthew 18:2-4).
lyndygayle on November 9, 2010 at 11:00 am
I’m thinking of someone that is emotional fragile and needy, poor in spirit as well as money. God calls me to pray for this person and wait for direction on how to offer help.
roxanne robbins on November 9, 2010 at 2:40 pm
lyndygayle – As someone who benefitted from friends’ prayers when I was a troubled state a few years ago, I thank you for what you’re doing and are prepared to do – as God leads – for your friend in need.
Blessings to you both.
Nuka on November 9, 2010 at 4:41 pm
As I read about this poor and hurting child,sincerely,I begin to wonder what hope of joy and happiness exists for him.But the shocker comes when I hear his bold confession of faith,and my faith is strengthened and raised as I realise that God is who He is,irrespective of our circumstances,and He can always turn situations around.God bless you richly
roxanne robbins on November 9, 2010 at 5:09 pm
I haven’t seen Joseph in a long time and would be grateful for prayers that I can locate him again. Thank you!
jojo-philippines on February 15, 2011 at 9:53 pm
This is true and it all starts with our faith to God that we will be healed, just what I always pattern life to the woman who has been in continuous meantruation for years that she believe in God’s miracle healing and even Jesus himself said, it was not him who has healed the woman but through her faith to God.