memories of Honduras

One of the readings John identified for us to read this week reminded me of Honduras.

We don't want anyone to find fault with our work, and so we try hard not to cause problems. But in everything and in every way we show that we truly are God's servants. We have always been patient, though we have had a lot of trouble, suffering, and hard times. We have been beaten, put in jail, and hurt in riots. We have worked hard and have gone without sleep or food. But we have kept ourselves pure and have been understanding, patient, and kind. The Holy Spirit has been with us, and our love has been real. We have spoken the truth, and God's power has worked in us. In all our struggles we have said and done only what is right.

Whether we were honored or dishonored or praised or cursed, we always told the truth about ourselves. But some people said we did not. We are unknown to others, but well known to you. We seem to be dying, and yet we are still alive. We have been punished, but never killed, and we are always happy, even in times of suffering. Although we are poor, we have made many people rich. And though we own nothing, everything is ours.

Friends in Corinth, we are telling the truth when we say that there is room in our hearts for you. We are not holding back on our love for you, but you are holding back on your love for us. I speak to you as I would speak to my own children. Please make room in your hearts for us. - 2 Corinthians 6:3-13 (CEV)

The question - By what standards do you gauge success?

According to these words, Gerizim in Honduras is the successful community. Daily they experience hardships and suffering with immense patience. The Holy Spirit is with them and their love is real. They tell the truth. They can be happy in times of suffering. They are poor and have made many rich because of it. They have room in their hearts for us.

I think we are Corinth. We, who are so easily distracted and put off track by hardships and suffering. We, who have the luxury of time and resources to heal our wounds. While we are tending to ourselves, do we still have room in our hearts for others, for Gerizim, for Togo, for those in need locally?