True Life found in Christ in the Poor

How could my unworthy presence make a difference?

My mere presence in Christ was a clear message to them and to their teachers that they are not forgotten people.

Working in Psico (the psychological school) was much more challenging than I imagined. There were so many children, not enough teachers and even fewer supplies to work with. Not only did I have to love their disabilities, I had to find it in myself to love the way that they smelled. I had to love their violent acts towards me and the other children, violence because of the lack of love, touch, discipline, and attention they have received. They lacked so much, I questioned if I could find enough love within myself to offer to them. How could my unworthy presence make a difference? Then I realized that it was true that my mere presence there was not the difference; it wasn’t my love that would be enough for them; but rather, it was Jesus’ love that I brought to them that was enough. It was looking into their eyes and seeing His face, it was allowing their smiles to bring me joy, it was extending my hand to them in His name. My mere presence in Christ was a clear message to them and to their teachers that they are not forgotten people. So when I felt like I was empty or not doing enough, I kept this in mind. I also kept close to my heart something a dear friend told me; that true joy in this life is found in entering into His Sacred Heart found in all the precious children and poor of this world; surrendering everything and dying for His cause.

Melissa was a member of the 2003 University Mission.