The heaviness of that night leaked into the next day. That morning, we were going to take the women out. It is the one time a week where the women are able to leave the program and do something fun. This week, we were taking them to the park. 

After a short walk (mostly uphill), we arrived. But after only a few minutes, it started to rain. We sought cover under a nearby awning. Instead of playing soccer or volleyball, we played childhood hand games. 

It was finally time to head to back. As we walked, the rain turned into a downpour. The women jumped into puddles and pushed each other into the rain. They ding dong ditched houses and laughed the entire way back. Their joy was overflowing. 

I couldn't help but think back to the night before. The heaviness and hopelessness that filled the streets versus the laughter and joy these women carried. Maybe there was still some light here. These women came from those same dark places we witnessed. But they made it through. The darkness did not swallow them. They made a change. They encountered Jesus. Despite the chaos of the night before, there was still peace. 

It doesn't matter how dark everything seemed. It doesn't matter how hopeless everything felt. Because the reality is that there was always hope illuminating through it all. God doesn't look at the people in the streets and turn the other way. He sends us in to offer a hand. He loves and cares for those who no one will take a second glance towards. We offer hope because we have Jesus. Don't forget that. What areas in your life is He asking you to be the light?