Driving down the road, we suddenly spotted him. Nehemias’ big smile and wave wasn’t hard to miss as he stood leaning against the school building, waiting for our arrival. After parking, Nehemias’ dad appeared and the two led us down the path back to their home.  Nehemias’ walker had broken, and we went to see if we could repair it, as it was too hard for his dad to bring it to ASELSI on the bus. While there, we thought we’d also see how Nehemias did with things at home and school. 

Nehemias, his dad, and the rest of the family had been waiting for us, and they appeared to be dressed in their best to greet us. His dad said he was thankful that after eight years of his son being in therapy, we finally had come to visit them in their home. We shared memories of the early days, working with another ministry making Nehemias a special chair for school and helping him write. We talked about the first time Nehemias received his walker. (Check out the story here: https://www.jenniferhoines.com/come-here/). What a delightful time looking back on all God has done in and through us all. Nehemias’ dad thanked us, but we also thanked him for his dedication and bringing Nehemias to therapy each week. What a joy to see a family fighting for their son to achieve his full potential. 

Nehemias showed us his old walker, well worn and used. (See below). Imagine the stories this walker could tell! The walker may be beyond repair, but we will be working on building him a PVC pipe walker soon. In the meantime, I trust Nehemias will continue moving forward with the love and support of his family and our therapy team. 

Before we left, the family handed us each a bottle of cold water. Reflecting on the visit that night, I couldn’t help but think about the verse in the Bible about the blessings to those giving a cold cup of water in Jesus’ name. Father, I prayed, bless this family for all they’ve done and continue to do for their son.