In an older part of town, down a well-worn residential street, tucked back behind a community park and a justice minded church, lies a modest house with a gravel driveway. In this house is a family and in this family is a humble woman of God who feels nervous making speeches and requires the assistance of a translator when hosting primarily English speakers.
Yesterday she hosted just such a group.
After feeding hungry bellies with carnitas and horchata, the woman asked to share some thoughts with her honored guests. “God wanted me to thank you,” she declared, “for caring for others in our community. I know you work long hours and work hard. At first I was going to send the food to you, but I wanted to host you here. I know it is not much, but it is my honor to share it with you.”
I glanced around at the healthcare team with whom I have had the privilege of serving during the last six months and thought how grateful I am as well. Gathered around mismatched chairs and tables covered with plastic super hero covers, I thought to myself “there is no finer meal in all the world.”
I have dined with powerful men and women and influential policy makers. I have attended world-class parties and eaten with the rich and famous. And grateful as I am for such opportunities, none has demonstrated such hospitality. Oh, that we could all be so authentic, so blessed as to give of ourselves in such a way! This is my most earnest prayer: that I may live as this one lives and love as she loves.
