The first time I met Clessio he was rubbing sleep from his eyes after an afternoon nap. He’d heard Mark and Lori had come to visit and came to meet us in the office. He was happy to give us a tour, showing us around the rehab center, all the while explaining the different ways Christ was working in his life through this place. He showed us the makeshift kitchen, the workout area, his neatly made bunk, and the areas outside under the trees where they read and prayed and studied the Bible. He spoke of the grace of God in saving him from the darkness of his addictions and giving him new life. Watching him there, peace so evident in his eyes, I was amazed.
During our month there, Stephanie and I went with Lori to visit Clessio a number of times. Every time he would come out to meet us as we pulled in, a smile on his face and something new to share about his love for Christ. One night while were busy running errands in the city, Clessio called about seven times trying to get a hold of Lori. The next day she called to talk to him. He had simply wanted to share what he’d been reading and learning in the scriptures. Clessio had a passion for reading and sharing the Word that inspired me.
Steph and me with Clessio at the rehab center
The last time we saw him, he’d moved to the smaller rehab facility. He showed us the hammock he’d been sleeping in and smiled, telling us how he liked the quietness of this place because it gave him more time alone with God. He held the bracelet we gave him in his hands, running the thread through his fingers as Lori told the significance of the colors- red for His blood that washes us pure and white.
I’ll never forget Clessio, his dark eyes bright with love for Christ. Those few times I met him changed me in the ways that they challenged me. Here was a young man who had spent most of his life trapped in darkness, living on the street. The moment he trusted Christ he was forever changed and it was evident to everyone who met him. He’s gone now and we’re left wondering why. The Lord took him home and we wonder why so soon. Why Clessio? But He promises that even when we don’t understand He has the perfect plan for each life (Jeremiah 29:11). While we wait and wonder here, let’s follow Clessio’s passionate example in living a poured out life of service and love for our Savior.
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