“I have been crucified with Christ and no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20
Baby Herman
One of the most transformational truths I have stumbled upon is that ministry is simply “being Christ” to people. Kelly and I were discussing this in the park one day. We were considering where our focus should be – on loving and serving others or on being transformed ourselves. We talked for awhile about what we were learning, questions we had, and what God has been doing in us. Then we were approached by a little boy with a box. He explained that his baby brother was sick and that he was asking for money. Kelly and I began a conversation with the mother, Blanca, who also approached us.
She explained how her baby (11 mos.), Herman, was ill and needed a blood transfusion. We asked if we could pray for Herman, and she agreed. Kelly took the baby in her arms and we approached our Father in Heaven on behalf of this precious child. After we finished praying, Blanca confessed that she didn’t have money for milk or food. Unsure as to the validity of this claim, Kelly felt led to buy her groceries regardless. We walked together to the market, Kelly carrying Herman while I talked with Blanca.
Blanca accepted Christ when she was fifteen years old, but hasn’t really maintained a relationship with Him. She explained that she didn’t talk to Him for awhile, but has been asking for help recently. I assured her that Kelly and I were part of God’s answer to her, and that it was not us buying her groceries, but Christ in us.
She assured us that she would be able to get home with her children and her groceries, so we prayed with her again and said goodbye. We encouraged her to renew her relationship with the Lord and reminded her that she had encountered Christ in us that day.
Blessed Children
While in Antigua, Guatemala, Team Agapetos was blessed to receive the opportunity to visit a local school, dedicated to the poorest of the poor children. Mary and I were assigned the first grade classroom. We helped the teacher and loved on the children. The little boys and girls were desperate for affection. I think I had at least one attached to me at all times!
One girl in particular, Carla, stayed close all day. During recess, we went to the library, where she asked me to
read Clifford the Big Red Dog books to her (in Spanish). Having been raised on Clifford, I was happy to oblige!
The three hours spent at the school flew by, as I played with and held the blessed children. The overused, oversold catchphrase, “What Would Jesus Do?” came to life. Christ would play with the children and hold the children and read to the children. This is what ministry is – being Christ!
Please pray that these children would come to know and experience the love of Christ!
