Downward Mobility

This week's Formation was about 'descending the ladder of success'.  Jesus Christ being the premier example; God shedding his divinity to become a slave among us, itinerant, washing feet, eating with despised tax collectors, etc.  There have been many throughout history who have given up fame and fortune to lead a life of humility and simplicity.  Henri Nouwen was a highly respected theologian and the most popular lecturer at Harvard University, a bastion of secularism. Students packed his classroom, those who couldn't get in stood outside to hear him.  His books were published and translated throughout the world.

He was invited by Jean Vanier to visit Daybreak, a L'Arche community in Canada.  Henri stayed.  A man of tremendous energy and vitality, he was given the care of Adam, a severely disabled young man.  It was torturous waiting for Adam to accomplish the simplest task of brushing his teeth.  Henri writes, "I have heard about and read about the life of Jesus, but I was never able to touch or see him.  I was able to touch Adam. I saw him and I touched his life.  That's what we did; touched Adam!  And what is said of  Jesus must be said of Adam; 'Everyone who touched him was healed.'" (Mark 6:56)