Joey Velasco is a talented Filipino painter and sculptor. He is also a compassionate man.
He finds beauty, hope, strength, and happiness in the most vulnerable in society: the homeless child. Deep in his heart, he knows God loves these perfect beings. What is bleak in his paintings is actually God working through us. Take a look and experience its transformative power.
Behind the photograph of this painting are his words:
Poor Kids In My Pocket
I carry this picture in my pocket,
A simple reminder to me that
No matter where I am,
Jesus and the poor kids are always
in my midst.
This simple card is not a claim stub
To withdraw some blessings in return.
It is not a ticket to free me from guilt
Nor a good luck charm to protect me from harm.
It’s not even to tag me as a man of charity
Fo all the world to see.
It’s simply an understanding
Between Jesus and me.
When I put my hand in my pocket
To bring out my wallet,
It is NOT for alms-giving.
This picture just makes me remember
that I must have a heart to share
that a part of me has to be offered
in simple service and deeds
to the countless little children
whose future is obscure;
who suffer and shiver in the dark;
whose voices are unheard;
whose nightmares come at daytime,
and whose monsters are real.
It’s a symbol of my nearness to God.
So, I carry this little piece in my pocket,
Reminding no one but me,
That I can give hope
If only I care.
-Joey Velasco
