Slumberland Team - Day 3 (part 2)

A funny thing happened on the way to the forum to meet Ophane.  Ophane is a 75 years young buddy of mine who I have visited twice before. He is a victim of leprosy and has lost his left leg below the knee and half his right foot.  The purpose of our visits to the Elders is to offer comfort by washing their feet and applying lotion.  Our driver dropped off the team and we headed to Ophane's house. As we approached, he was sitting in a shady area waiting for us. Much to our surprise he had both legs and both feet.  We looked to the heavens for guidance, but received no answer!   The dilemma was solved by teammate Barbara exclaiming, "This isn't Ophane!"  Gerno, our interpreter, told us that  the man we came upon was Lindor, who reported that Ophane lived down the street and pointed out the way.  It was decided that God has sent us to Lindor to bless him albeit accidentally.  A very grateful Lindor very much enjoyed his wash and lotion and the team enjoyed a surprise blessing.

We went back to the TapTap and resumed our journey to find Ophane.  A short distance down the road we found Ophane and his goats.  I was exceedingly pleased to find that Ophane recognized me.  We embraced and laughed and I spoke the only Creole I know, Bondye Beniou, which means God Bless You.  We went inside where Ophane and his sister received our blessing of washing and lotion.  I did his feet and hands while teammate Brian did his shoulders.  Ophane cried.  Teammates Karen and Jolene cared for his sister in the same way.  I asked the interpreter to tell Ophane that I still think his goats are better looking the he.  Ophane laughed heartily.  Our last step is to pray over them.  Teammate Lisa said a very wonderful and appropriate prayer for and about them.  They both cried and many of the team joined them.

It was a beautiful experience for them and for the team.

Paul