by JoJo Moffitt
Gary, Indiana
Some of the people from whom I seem to learn the most (if I choose to) are the people on my bus route. They always excite and amaze me.
I have been privileged to work in the bus ministry at First Baptist Church of Hammond, Indiana, for 30+ years. One of the riders we pick up each week is always a teacher to all of us— Wilbur Hoover. Every Sunday when we come to his house, he comes on the bus and shows us his lapel pin which says, “Usher.” He is so excited and thrilled with the little things and makes them big. Almost every week he asks prayer for someone in need and seems to always think of others rather than himself. He asks to pray; we don’t have to ask him. He loves to lead a song, sing, and share a blessing. He could be more concerned about himself, as he is 37 years old, has never been married, has never worked a job like you and I, and has never been in a regular school or sports program because he is mentally retarded and has Down’s syndrome. Yet Wilbur loves his special school job and the Special Olympics, and he gives all he can to do all he does.
“Scriptural Solutions Book 1” Discover Loretta Walker’s “Secret” to control your emotions. (Click the image for more information.)
One Sunday held an uncommon lesson for me. When we arrived, he ran to the bus holding several pieces of paper. I asked, “Wilbur, what are you so excited about?” He showed all of us the many pages of notes he had written—all from the Bible. He decided while waiting for the bus that he would sit and write out the Bible. I’ll never forget how I felt.
Do we get excited about singing? Do we get excited about praying for others? Do we get excited about being an usher? Do we get excited about singing in the choir? Do we get excited about working on a bus route, reading and writing out God’s Word, and even more excited about sharing His Word with others?
Oh, how I trust I’ll not miss all the Wilbur Hoovers in my life and be willing to learn from them like I’ve learned from this priceless, caring young man. I wonder really who is the handicapped one? Wilbur is a handicapped person who has taught me a lesson that has changed and challenged my life forever. How about you? Is every man your teacher?
“Pause” Devotional by Sharon Rabon (Click on the image for more information.)
Oh, how I trust I’ll not miss all the Wilbur Hoovers in my life and be willing to learn from them like I’ve learned from this priceless, caring young man. I wonder really who is the handicapped one? Wilbur is a handicapped person who has taught me a lesson that has changed and challenged my life forever. How about you? Is every man your teacher?
Mrs Moffitt, you are so aware and concerned for those around you. What a blessing to think that Wilbur gets to share his special life with you. God knew what He was doing when he put you two together. I loved reading your story filled with joy!