Medellin, Colombia, is quite the place. It is incredibly unique and the things I’ve seen here are unlike anything else I’ve seen during my time in South America. Medellin is a city that is quite lost. It is a city filled with darkness, pain and poverty. So much of Medellin is under the hand of the world.
But, to me, this makes it so much sweeter when I hear the Lord’s voice here. It makes it so much more incredible to see God’s people fighting for justice, righteousness, following His calling to see the least of these. The people in each ministry we have worked with who have committed their every single day to serving their communities and to love on those who only know worldly love is one of the most inspirational actions I have been around.
We are working with a foundation called Ciudad Refugio (City of Refuge). Ciudad Refugio has many parts to it. The foundation itself, where we are staying, is a rehab facility for those desiring to come out of addiction. They stay here, have Bible studies, opportunities to work and get back on their feet, and a safe place to bring their pasts. The first floor of Ciudad Refugio also opens its doors every single night for as many people in homelessness as they can fit. They let these friends from the streets come in, eat a meal, shower, and sleep on a mat on the floor between the hours of 7:30pm-5:00am. Every single night as they’re getting ready for sleep, they hear the gospel message. There is also a couple different church services throughout the week that invites the homeless community and members of the program to come and hear God’s word. Ciudad Refugio also partners with communities close by and pours into the families there, meeting needs and sharing Truth. They care for the homeless, the addicts, the poor, and those who just can’t get on their feet alone right now.
My teammate, Brandon, said it best when he was sharing at church last night and he said “The glory of God shines through the darkest situations.”
Every situation I’ve seen that the world would count as a loss, I’ve seen the people of God turn it into a gain for the Kingdom.
We will be in Medellin, Colombia, for about 2 and a half more weeks. Please keep my squad and Ciudad Refugio in your prayers as we have quite a busy schedule and are processing a lot during this time. Praises for all God is doing and revealing during this time!
