John 1:46
“Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?” Nathanael asked.
“Come and see,” said Philip.
Haiti changed my perspective on many things. I encountered people who faced inescapable poverty and a constant upheaval caused by political corruption and turnover. I witnessed various responses to those harsh realities. Some joined the chaos. Some complained endlessly. Some prayed without ceasing. Many just responded, “se lavi”, reflecting the expectation that it is just how life is in Haiti. Devoid of hope, they determine to grit through whatever difficulty comes next.
I think about when the Son of God came to earth. I picture Him coming to a place and situation like Haiti. Internationally, Haiti has a poor reputation. But Nazareth did too. Remember how Nathanael responded to the thought of the Messiah coming from there? “Nazareth? Can anything good come from there?” (John 1:46)
Jesus chose a place rife with poverty, dirt, and political oppression. He went where some longed for true relationship with the Almighty while the majority worshiped “God” but didn’t know Him at all.
How brilliant is the light of Christ against the dismal background of darkness! How astounding to see hope and joy abound when there is no earthly reason for it! How wondrous is the promise of eternal salvation, knowing the terrible grip of uncertainty and fear will eventually be broken once and for all.
Haiti remains a land of darkness, perhaps facing her darkest hour in years. Jesus is not afraid of the dark though, for He is Light. He is there, shining into the darkness, overcoming uncertainty, fear, and hopelessness. He is there, shining through those who look to Him and reflect His glory. He shines through the girls as they, like Philip challenge anyone who says, “Can anything good come from there?” to “Come and see.” The Lord is at work and it is wondrous to behold!