A Promise of Hope

Equestrian Therapy is one of the many amazing ministries of Familias Especiales bringing hope to 55 special needs children in Matagalpa. The therapists work with children of various ages. When we arrived the session was in progress. We witnessed the smiles of the young man who was balancing on the horse with what seemed like great ease. While several of us were engaging with a young boy who was showing Riley how to feed the young horses in the stalls, Kevin was holding 5 year old Maria Jose on the horse. Kevin's tender heart connected immediately with her. I am not sure who was enjoying it more.

During our morning devotion time, we had talked about being the hands of Jesus. As we were now touching the children, that scripture became alive in a new way. According the Gospel of Matthew, whatever we do in Jesus' name we do for Jesus. Kevin was loving this little one and thus loving Jesus. When Kevin asked me if I wanted a turn I could hardly believe it! As I mounted the horse, I was not as confident as that young man had been. It was awkward. I needed to stay centered and balanced and hold this precious child. I would have been even more nervous if I had realized the mother was watching me.

As a light shower began, Maria became agitated. Not wanting her to flail with the possibility of dropping her, I began to sing Incy Wincy Spider. She had no idea of what I was singing but her beautiful brown eyes looked up into mine and she broke into a smile. I continued singing songs and soon she began to giggle. There are not words to express the feeling that welled up within me. Seeing her respond to my song while riding a horse was a moment that will remain with me beyond this week. In those moments, I experienced the joy of heaven. God blessed me with the opportunity to hold one of His precious children. There was nothing I could do to change the challenges she will continue to face in her life time, but I was able to hold her and love her for a moment in time. I kissed her and prayed for her and her mother. 

As we said "Adios, Dios el Bendiga" We leave knowing God has place His servants here in this place to be His hands and feet. His love is evident and the prayers of His people are making a difference in the lives of these precious children and their families.