Ricky's Reward | Previous Challenge Entry

how it works

TITLE: Ricky's Reward | Previous Challenge Entry
By Barbara Culler
08/28/24
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Ricky enjoyed church, even when strongly encouraged to situate his wheelchair in the rear corner nook designated for those with special needs. His radiant face lifted upward as his head swiveled side to side. Despite limited speech, Rick felt the praise and worship music throughout his soul. Though he could not see, he heard, and he knew Jesus.

When the service ended, his personal care attendant, Robbie, guided the wheelchair through the crowd exiting the sanctuary. Many of his church friends lovingly greeted him. But also, there were hurtful comments.

"Ewww, Mommy, look at his face!" A young child pointed at Rick. Wrinkling her nose, the woman hurriedly ushered the boy out of the building.

"People like that should not be allowed in public," an older man loudly hissed, pointing at the disfigured man in the wheelchair.

Ricky heard them. A single tear leaked down his purple cheek. As a result of his congenital syndrome, a thick, massive port wine stain covered the entire left side of his face and ear. In addition, his lips puffed out like a Botox treatment gone wrong. Although Ricky had intellectual challenges, he understood what was occurring around him. Even so, he knew Jesus loved him, no matter what.

Residing in a group home for adults with disabilities, Ricky routinely attended the nearby church. The house staff took all who wanted to go, transporting them in a specialized van. His elderly parents visited every Sunday afternoon. They loved their son yet scorned his Christianity.

Today was no different. Tired from the long morning sitting in the wheelchair, Ricky wanted to rest on his bed but knew his parents preferred he stay up for the short visit. Promptly arriving at 2:00 pm, Bart and Berniece settled themselves in the living room.

"So how was church?" Bart snarked, crossing arms across his chest.

"Good." Ricky remembered the hateful whispers, but he could not verbalize his feelings.

"Why do you keep going? I bet those people say mean things, don't they?"

Rick grunted.

Berniece chimed in: "So, even Christians are cruel, even at church." Rubbing Rick's arm, she added: " I'm sorry you must deal with that bullying."

"So where is your God when that happens?" Bart knew Ricky could not verbalize an answer.

Oh, He's right here with me. Looking up in the corner of the room, Ricky smiled.

My son, you are fearfully and wonderfully made. I love you. Rick beamed.

"What are you grinning at? Ricky's mom asked as she shifted positions.

Jesus. He's right there. Rick pointed toward the spot where he knew his Lord appeared.

Glancing at the direction his son gestured, Bart forcefully fisted his palm.

Jumping out of his chair, he roared: "Stop it! There's no one there. You're hallucinating, boy." Removing his pocketed car keys, he scowled at Berniece.

"Let's get out of here before he starts speaking in tongues, or some other crazy behavior."

Staring down at his middle-aged son, Bart continued: "You keep talking like that and we'll stop coming to see you." His father stormed out of the room.

Kissing her son on the forehead, both hands cradling his face, Berniece admonished: "I don't understand what's going on with you. But don't do this when we come again. It's too creepy."

Gathering her purse, his mother said goodbye to the staff and slipped out the front door.

Tears rolled down Rick's face.

Robbie, the attendant, witnessed the exchange with Ricky and his parents. Approaching his sad-looking ward, Robbie called out: "Hey Rick, would you like to rest on your bed before dinner?"

"Yes."

Pushing the wheelchair toward the bedroom, he assisted Ricky onto the bed. Praying for the words to encourage his patient, Robbie removed the folded quilt from the foot of the bed and spread it over the heartbroken man.

"You know, Jesus was persecuted for telling others that he was the Messiah. The Bible says that when we are bullied for telling others about Jesus, we will receive a heavenly reward. I can't wait to get there!"

"Yes!"

A radiant light filled the room, and Ricky's face lit up like a Christmas tree. I understand your hurt, my son. Soon you will be with me, and your parents will one day believe.

"Thank you." And Ricky peacefully dozed off.

"Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:10 NASB

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