Day 3 can sometimes be a rough one: you're more tired than you were the day before; perhaps you're achy from all of the walking and working. Your body is used to the schedule at this point, so it's easier to fight it. Yet despite all of this, our students absolutely seized the day!
Groups worked with diverse groups of Chicago residents and organizations today, from senior citizens to day campers, and food packages to organic gardens. During devotions tonight, the leading small group asked students where they saw light throughout their days. They came up with this idea after learning that Fourth Presbyterian was built in it's specific spot with the purpose to be The Light in The City.
One student saw light when she was spending time with an elderly woman with dementia. While her memory was not what it used to be, light shone through as she was able to make connections with a new person. When time rolled around to leave, the woman started to well up, saying she wished she didn't have to leave.
Similarly, another student got to know another senior citizen at a different residential place. They also enjoyed their time together so much so that, when the group had to move on to another worksite, the citizen took the student's hand and wanted to hold on. The student said she saw light in her new friend and was humbled to have had a part in helping it shine. When it was time to let go, the friend said, "I'll hold you with my hand open".
One small group got their namaste on with some of the day camp kids that come to Fourth each day for an arts based education during the summer. They saw light in the kids with whom they made fortune tellers and practices yoga. The kids were beyond excited to play with them and show off their stuff, and their light quickly spread throughout the room to create an enjoyable time for all.
After talking about all of the moments of light from the day, the group wrapped up their worship with the only song appropriate to bring everyone's light and spirit out: Bring Me Home Country Road.
The theme of light continued through the night as we walked down towards the lake to see the weekly firework show put on at Navy Pier. Group C (pictured below) wrapped up our initially weary Wednesday with quite a bang!
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