By guest writer, Brian N. Morgan
Many years ago, while on an overseas mission trip, I came face-to-face with true poverty. It was overwhelming and challenging to comprehend. I was traveling through the capital city of Phnom Penh, Cambodia. I was riding in a bus or van, and night had fallen, however, the streets and street corners were well lit.
As I looked out the window, something caught my eye. I thought I saw a Caucasian male sitting in the middle of a group of Cambodians on the side of the road. I tried to make out if this man was an American or European; as I looked closer, I realized that he was an albino Cambodian.
He was scooting himself along on the ground with flip-flops on his hands and feet. I realized that he was blind when I saw a rope tied around his waist, stretching to the waist of another Cambodian man in front of him. The second Cambodian man was not albino and definitely not blind, yet he, too, scooted along on the ground.
I have to admit that in that moment, I questioned the goodness and sovereignty of God. I wanted to hold Him accountable. “How can You allow this to happen?!” I thought. “Where is Your mercy and grace in this situation? Where are YOU in this?” I cannot remember, but I may have even prayed aloud.
Have you ever questioned God, His character, or His goodness? The wonderful thing is that He is big enough to handle it. I felt prompted in my spirit to look again at this man and his plight. I saw a blind, lame, albino Cambodian beggar. Then I saw the “lifeline” that tied him to another soul. It was a lifeline that led him to food, safety, and shelter. It was a bond of community. The man was not alone; God had provided another who was a little better off and had enough compassion to help his brother. Therein was the mercy and grace of God.
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