I would like us to find inspiration from the Dutch-born Catholic Priest and Theologian, Henri Nouwen. Nouwen was a professor of psychology at the University of Notre Dame. He was later a professor of pastoral theology at Yale and Harvard. He authored 39 books, which have surpassed 8.5 million sales. Exemplified by his roles at these prestigious Universities and his success in writing, Nouwen had reached the pinnacle of academic success. 

However, in the summer of 1985, Nouwen left academia behind and became the pastor of the L’Arche community for those with physical and intellectual disabilities. In his publicized diary, The Road to Daybreak: A Spiritual Journey, Nouwen explains this decision, saying he was in search of a place that would lead him “closer to the heart of God.” He goes on to say that the time at L’Arche led to a deeper understanding of God and the human family.  

In his book, In The Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership, Nouwen shares, “These broken, wounded, and completely unpretentious people forced me to let go of my relevant self — the self that can do things, show things, prove things, build things — and forced me to reclaim that unadorned self in which I am completely vulnerable, open to receive and give love regardless of any accomplishments.”   

As we reflect on the words of Henri Nouwen, I hope we realize that our work at Village Northwest is vastly important to both the individuals we serve and their families - and I hope we recognize the work is important for us too.  In working with our residents, we know that human life is valued regardless of abilities. This recognition that our residents deserve love and support is also a reminder for us. We also deserve this same love and support. When Jesus was asked what the greatest commandment was, he answered as recorded in Matthew 22, “to love the Lord with all your heart, and with all your strength, and with all your mind.” But he quickly added that the second equally greatest “is to love your neighbor as yourself." Jesus doesn't answer with achieve this or acquire that, or even prove your worth. Jesus says to love God and love others. This unconditional love, I believe, is what brings Nouwen and ourselves “closer to the heart of God.” 

I hope that you can experience glimpses of this love in your lives and that you can continue to extend it to not only those we serve – but everyone.