Posted by Scott on Apr 22, 2010 in Life | 0 comments
When they look at you, their eyes tell of a mystery that is not easily decoded. Their eyes tell of hardship, distrust and uncertainty. As adults, we should have developed the mechanisms to cope with such conditions. But for these precious little ones, coping with such heavy burdens at a young age creates a life of despair. However, this day would be an important milestone for these children. A new chapter on hope was soon to be written on their hearts.
April 20th, 2010 marked the opening date of the Eagles Nest Manna Feeding Center located in Solola, Guatemala. When the doors opened, seventeen young children and four mothers showed up for the very first meal at this project. As these 17 children walked through the door, one could only imagine what they were thinking. As with most Manna Worldwide feeding centers, the children who attend are typically under the age of 10. And like most centers, these kids were on their own to find the place without adult supervision. As the Blessing was given and the food was served, the children were quiet, their countenance subdued.
April 20th, 2010, was a day these four mothers and seventeen children will not likely forget. This day marked their first up close and personal encounter with the love of Jesus. This newest Manna center will closely follow Jesus’ example of meeting a physical need before fulfilling a spiritual one. This format will likely be the key to unraveling the mystery these children have locked deep within. For these children and their families, this center will become a place of hope. It will be a place where Jesus is proclaimed and His love evidenced. Undoubtably, before the month is over, this center will be filled with 70 children. No longer will the atmosphere be somber, but alive with laughter.
As the children finished their 1st meal, with bellies full, their eyes began to soften. As they filtered from the building laughter could be heard. And for those few brief precious moments, everything was right in their world .
This center is generously funding by East Coast Roofing & Siding (see post: Heart of a Man).
UPDATE : Day 2, The number of children climbed from 17 to 40!