Monday, September 3, 2012

Experiencing Ecuador-No Greater Love

Wow, I can't believe I've been home from Ecuador for four days already! It's been crazy on the personal side, but I'm here now to begin sharing the stories of an amazing group of people. With so much to tell, I'm not sure where to start, so I guess I'll just start at the beginning with a special experience from Day 1 in Esmeraldas, Ecuador at Center EC594.

We visited EC594 to learn about the Child Survival Program Compassion provides for children pre-birth to three years old. Looking over the sea of mamas and babies, one person stuck out-a young man.  I simply thought he was a father joining the party until my Family Group took a visit to his home.  


David (right) is 21 years old.  He told us about his sister who had four children and ran away leaving them all (ages 2-15 years) in the care of their mother and other sister.  Unfortunately, David's sister and mother passed away within a few months of each other causing the four boys to be split up.  David is caring for 2 year, 4 month old Derek (bottom center) who is part of Compassion's Child Survival Program. He is also helping with the other three children, including 9 year old Segundo (wearing yellow). David has trouble finding work and is trying his best to be both mother and father to young Derek. The pastor of EC594 (left) told us he is often concerned whether they get enough to eat and does as much as he can to help them out.

I was blown away by the amazing commitment David has for his nephews and I believe God has an amazing plan for this family.

(Family Group 1 with David, Derek, Segundo, and a few friends)


2 comments:

  1. David sounds like an amazing man! Praying for that family right now.

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  2. That is such a beautiful story. I too have met so many remarkable and sacrificial people being supported by and/or volunteering in Compassion projects, as well as the amazing staff people. The world needs to hear these stories of hope!

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