There are few things that really took my by surprise once I had finally left for the WR. I expected to miss internet, washers, showers, privacy, and clean clothes but I overlooked one of the biggest blessings of the WR, the people we serve with. I want to take the time to introduce you to Pastor JoJo.
Pastor JoJo takes us racers with him on his daily house visits around Malaybalay, Philippines. Not only does his laugh lighten your heart when you hear it but he will sing just about any hymn at the drop of a hat. He has the most refreshing simplistic view of God and life that has challenged and encouraged me richly. Here’s an example of his simple yet powerful faith.
Me: Do you do this everyday?
Pastor JoJo: Yes. Everyday.
Me: What about if you are sick or very tired?
Pastor JoJo: Then I stay at home and rest.
Me: What about when you feel like your faith is weak or struggling?
Pastor JoJo: Then I stay at home and pray.
Me: [laughing] Oh. Right.
Not only does Pastor JoJo inspire me because of his faith but his dedication to serving the Lord is also to be admired. Pastor JoJo went into the ministry full time 2 years ago. In order to plant a church and minister full time he had to quit his job as a security guard at night. To support the family his wife, Mary Jane, nannies for a family in Hong Kong and is half way through her two year contract. His family has made some major sacrifices so that he can serve the Lord. I can’t imagine being separated from a spouse and children for 2 years. But trusting and obeying the Lord no matter the cost seem to be the only option for this man and his family.
Pastor JoJo and Mary Jane also raise three beautiful children. Even with all of his pastoral duties he always picks his children up from school everyday. We finish ministry everyday around 3:15 so that Pastor JoJo can go be with his kids and Sunday afternoon is “family time” no matter what. Pastor JoJo can recall scriptures and their reference with incredible accuracy and also is sensitive to God’s voice, although he would probably not tell you that it is anything special.
I consider myself extremely blessed and humbled to be able to serve along side people like Pastor JoJo who sacrifice so much to serve the Lord with their lives. Please take a moment and pray for Pastor JoJo and his family because they lost their lost their house in the last Typhoon and are looking for a new home. They are also looking to build new churches around the Malaybalay area but are lacking the funds. Pray for God’s provision but also that they plant where and when God leads.
