We had been warned by "Big Jeff", our missionary host, before we arrived at the orphanage to expect to be shocked emotionally at what we would see and experience. As I got off the bus and walked into the orphanage grounds, I viewed conditions akin to a labor camp in Nazi Germany during WWII.
Then I entered into a large lean-to tarp/tent with crude wooden benches where about 60 Haitian orphans were singing, clapping, and praising Jesus at the top of their lungs in their native language---with huge smiles on their faces! I stood there in complete amazement as I took it all in. And I was humbled.....a doctor from the U.S. on a one week mission trip to Haiti got a glimpse of what Heaven will be like as children with absolutely nothing from a material standpoint sang to Jesus with incredible JOY!
And this joy was obviously completely INDEPENDENT of their circumstances in life. A child would be hard-pressed to find himself in more difficult conditions than these children experience---no running water, one outdoor bathroom without septic facilities, tattered clothing, poor nutrition, no toys, etc. Yet they were full of joy. And I felt ashamed. So often I have complained about various circumstances in my life. I have allowed circumstances to steal my joy. I was reminded by these precious Haitian orphans that TRUE joy is found only when we rest in Christ Jesus alone. And I was convicted to stop complaining and to count my many blessings---to thank God in ALL things, ALL the time.
Terry Ezell, MD
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