Desperation

We held a three day medical clinic (Monday – Wednesday).  We saw about 375 people in all and about 500 heard the Gospel!

This was the line at 8:00 on Tuesday morning!

Robin Broom, checking blood pressure

We were able to give away 750 items of clothes, shoes, etc to the people!

Unfortunately, we were not able to see everyone that came to the clinic – there were too many people and not enough doctors.  On Wednesday, I went to the front gate at 6:30 am, thinking I would write numbers on the hands of the “few” people that had already arrived, ensuring they would get seen.  There were at least 200 already in line!  I told the guard to close the gate.

I was in charge of running the clinic.  This meant I had to make sure everything ran smoothly – all teams members knew what they needed to do and were doing it.  The pharmacy was fully stocked, the doctors always had a patient in their office.  All stations had translators and EVERYONE heard the Gospel. The list goes on and on.   Not an easy task.

One of my hardest jobs was controlling the front entrance to the church.  The people lined up there and waited for hours to be seen. Unfortunately, some did not get seen because there were just too many people.  Monday was difficult.  Tuesday was worse!  Tuesday, I stood on the porch around 10:30, watching as two women began fighting over their place in line – hitting, screaming, you know, a cat fight!  People were pushing, children were getting pushed down, men and women were yelling.

I started to get upset, but instead prayed,

“Lord, let me see these people through Your eyes.”  

In that instant, I didn't see anger or pushiness or violence – all I saw was DESPERATION.  The faces were filled with desperation.  These people who had walked for hours to get help, were DESPERATE to be seen by the doctors.   These women with 5, 6 or 7 kids were DESPERATE to get help for their kids.  These grandmothers that are caring for their grandchildren were DESPERATE to get help.  These fathers who have lost their wives are DESPERATE to get help. 

My face with a set, determined look of “why are you not grateful for what we are trying to do” was replaced with tears and a broken heart for the DESPERATION in the faces of the people.

I am so thankful to the Lord for giving me that brief glimpse through His eyes.