Through the Eyes of Love – Your Weekly Reflection from CMMB
A Catholic Meditation on the Gospel
In this week’s Gospel, Jesus sends out the twelve disciples, giving instructions about how they are to conduct themselves on their mission journey. Today, as followers of Christ and fueled by our faith, we continue that same mission to serve others. Along the way, we are blessed as we meet incredible, resilient people like Maximina in Zambia, who show us what a life of grace really looks like.
Grandchildren are the crowning glory of grandparents. —Proverbs 17:6
Maximinia (age 62) is the primary caregiver for her 12-year-old grandson, Philip, born with special needs. Philip’s dad rejected his baby, saying to his wife, “No one in my family has a condition like this. It is your fault!” Overwhelmed by shame, he abandoned his wife and child, completely disappearing from their lives. Philip’s condition has never been diagnosed, but our team on the ground identified symptoms of cerebral palsy. Grandma Maximina must do everything for Philip including feeding, dressing, bathing, and toileting.
Philip has been blessed by his grandmother’s beautiful spirit since the day he was born. Their loving, close connection is very special. Maximina is constantly smiling and laughing. She reaches for Philip, giving him kisses and holding his hands. Philip responds to her affectionate interactions with pure joy. It is a beautiful thing to see, especially in a family burdened by stigma and the additional hardships of extreme poverty.
“Just look at him – he is filled with joy.”
Grandpa Davidson (age 71) helps too. Maximina’s face lights up when she tells our team, “He’s a good man.” He still goes to work every day at a steel mill to help support a large extended family including grown children and grandchildren. Maximina and Davidson have worked hard to overcome the challenges they face and they pray for Philip. Maximina told us:
“Our community didn’t understand Philip’s disability and there are so many harmful superstitions. Now people see how much love and care I give him and how Philip responds and they are amazed. I am so proud of Philp, and so they see him with new eyes.
God has given us this child. We have gone to many hospitals and we have learned that his brain is damaged for good, so we don’t have any silly hopes. There isn’t much else we can do, so we love him with all our hearts. He is such a source of joy. Just look at him – he is filled with joy. When I leave and then come back I am greeted by his huge smile. This boy has taught me so much.”
Maximina reminds us that everything we need on our journey as disciples of Jesus is rooted in our faith. If we can look at the world through the eyes of love, we can see that God’s grace is right in front of us—even in the most unexpected places. Please keep Maximina, Davidson, and Philip in your prayers.
Stories of Children Living in Extreme Poverty
Francesca’s mother is struggling. A recent widow, Chrysta tries her best to provide, but she is overwhelmed by grief and the challenges of extreme poverty that she must now face alone. You can give a family hope.
CLICK HERE to read Francesca’s story.
Jean Ali’s health is fragile. Her mom works hard, weaving and selling baskets, but earns little. A poor diet and contaminated water take a toll on the youngest children who are most vulnerable. Will you give Jean Ali the gift of health?
CLICK HERE to read Jean Ali’s story.
Like many babies, Julissa was born with bow legs, but it’s a condition that she hasn’t outgrown. She can’t stand or walk on her own, adding to the burdens of poverty. Specialized treatment can change her life. Will you help Julissa take her first step?
CLICK HERE to read Julissa’s story.