At the end of each day while we've been in Chile, we've taken time as a group to share a 'high' and a 'low'. This morning we had both at the same time.
After breakfast, several representatives from the EPES center here in Concepcion shared their mission and goals for the needs in this community. It was very evident that EPES was especially instrumental in assisting families following the 2010 earthquake and tsunami. Following their presentation they took us to the coastal city of Penco which was heavily damaged from the tsunami and which left many families displaced. We were shown the 'parking lot' that served as a temporary housing site for several years after the tsunami and then later to the new 400-home development where families moved in just six months ago. (That's a long time to be displaced!) We also saw first hand some of the beach reclamation that they are working on there. The aftermath work following a disaster of this size must feel so overwhelming, but it was wonderful to see some progress like the excitement and joy on the face of Juan as he showed us his new home. He was one of the community leaders that pushed for this development. He is a real rock star, but he was so humble.
But the story that nearly broke out hearts was an encounter with a beautiful woman that I will call Hope. The EPES staff introduced us to Hope when she came to meet us on the beach in Penco. She was so excited for us to come to her home. Her original home had been destroyed in the tsunami and she was currently living in a small, 2-room shack made of reclaimed wood with a metal roof. Fragmented pieces of styrofoam were being used inside for insulation. Despite her living conditions, she eagerly welcomed each of us into her humble home with the traditional Chilean kiss on the cheek. I think we were all shocked beyond words at her living conditions....This was our 'low'.
Then Hope began telling us her story of how she had lost her home, how she had suffered from domestic violence, how for three years she has been separated from her husband and that today her divorce was going to be finalized. She expressed heartfelt thanks for the EPES center for their emotional, spiritual, financial and legal assistance. Then with a big smile she explained that when her divorce is final, she will qualify for better housing. Her eyes began to well up in gratitude and so did ours. Because of the help she received from EPES and her new faith in Christ she feels like she has a new life, a new hope and a new future....We circled around her and offered her our prayers of support. This was our 'high'.
What a beautiful example of living faith and finding hope in a hurting world. Amen.
Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. Matthew 25:40
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