It was meant to be sitting on the street next to my block of units. It was found abandoned in a ditch at a neighbouring suburb – hot wired, head lights on, and engine running.

I felt violated. It had been broken into the weekend before. I thought they’d taken what they wanted and would leave it alone. Not so.

This experience brings to life for me that the thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.

No, I’m not surprised that the Enemy hates me. But I’m ever more conscious of his sentiments towards me in the midst of the “inconveniences” he’s caused … (something I refer to it as “the effects of evil entering into the hearts of men”).

Thankfully, Jesus has provided a way out for all of us:

“I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.” –John 10:10b (The Message)

In light of my current situation, I find it especially challenging to hear stories like the family that can’t afford to buy a front door. (I have limited life experience and a finite mind.)

Even though I work at Compassion and even though I’ve visited Compassion children in their homes, these stories catch me off-guard every time. I have questions running through my mind:

• What does it feel like to be unable to afford what’s typically considered a basic means of security and protection in our culture?
• Do more things get stolen from this family because they’re unable to provide for themselves?
• Do they ever feel safe living in a trouble area without a door?

My stolen car situation is a far cry from what families like Bidduet’s go through each day. (And yes, I’m learning to be content in every situation I find myself in.) Nevertheless, through these circumstances I’ve been confronted by my neediness and my poverty. Not abject poverty, no – but the fact that I’m poor in spirit and in need of God to deliver me from trouble and oppression.

Recognising my poverty has helped me to seek His eternal gift of Salvation, and an even more intimate relationship with Him, the only thing in life that has eternal value.

When I found my car broken into, my first reaction was “at least they can’t take away my Salvation.” I’m so glad that Jesus’ sacrifice has become a “truer reality” for me now through the recognition of my own poverty.

I also realise the more I’m stripped of my belongings, the more needs I have, and the more I look to Him for my needs and allow Him to be my supply in every way “according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.”

Our Lord knows our need more than we do. He knows the needs of families like Bidduet’s. He’s been filling that gap through His ministry, Compassion … And I pray that He would be the eternal sustenance for these precious children and their families.

I’ve been “closely” following Mel’s video journals from India. Day four is her final video journal (blog). I thank Mel for bringing to life for me how Jesus never gives up on us, especially children in poverty. He pursues and loves each one of them with an everlasting love. We can always trust Him to take care of the little ones. So, thank you, Mel, for sharing these stories, and for assuring me of the ministry of Compassion!

Take four!

Mel Carswell in India – Day Four

Reflections of a Compassion Traveller has been a series of reflective journals featuring field experiences of Compassion employees and supporters. We hope you have enjoyed the mini-series “Mel Carswell in India.” Stay tuned for more like this in the future!

- Irene

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