God’s Surprises

God’s Surprises

Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all
who are destitute. Prov 31:8

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8 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. 9 Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)

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One day while visiting a household of individuals with developmental disabilities,
I was amazed at the ability of one gentleman and his advocate as they led the
evening devotions following the evening meal.

Bill is unable to speak, and for years he was thought to be intellectually slow.
On this particular evening, there was a brief reading from Scripture with a
discussion of how the teachings might influence a person’s life. Following the
discussion, the group entered into their prayer time. Bill’s friend and advocate, who
had been hired to assist individuals within the home, went to Bill and asked him if
he would like to pray. Bill became very animated, nodding his head up and down
while vocalizing his excitement. Bill was then asked if he would like to pray for his
Mom and Dad, which resulted in renewed nodding and noises. Would he like to
pray for some friends who were named — again, renewed nodding and noises.
Once the very tender and thoughtful prayer was concluded, there was a
great sigh from Bill — it was obviously his Amen.

When we take the time to understand the mind of others who have difficulty
communicating their needs, we are being Christ-like! In Paul’s letter to the Romans
and in verse 26 of chapter eight we read, “In the same way, the Spirit helps us in
our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself
intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express.”

May we prize the opportunities that God presents when we can fulfill such
significant service for those unable to voice the important things in their hearts.

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Heavenly Father, verbal communication is a wonderful gift. I am sometimes
frustrated when words fail me. However, there are others who cannot enjoy the
freedom that speech provides in communicating thoughts, desires and concerns.
Jesus and Your Holy Spirit mediate for me, often taking my weak expressions and
presenting them to You according to Their knowledge of both myself and You,
God the Father. May I be ready today to listen to slow speech, to be observant
of another’s body language and to be quick to advocate for those
who need an advocate. Amen.

- Noel Churchman

Noel was the Executive Director of Christian Horizons form 1976 to 2001. The devotionals we will be using are from a book he wrote in 2005 called “Walking with God”. Noel’s reflections are grounded in his experiences as an educator, and provider of supports for individuals with exceptional needs as well as his life as a dedicated follower of Christ.