There are so many moments on the Race that leave me wondering, “How on earth did I get here?” Here is one of them.
Our first two weeks in Jamaica we have been working with Alexandria New Testament Church of God. We have helped them repaint the entire church (literally), helped with the construction of a new Sunday School building, participated in bible studies and youth fellowship, attended Sunday church services and done evangelism throughout their community.
One day last week, my teammates Saylah, Johan and I took a drive with Pastor Neal to another community he serves to visit a man named Brother Gelzine. On the ride to Higgins Land, Pastor Neal explained that once someone is a member of their church, it is his responsibility to serve them for the rest of his days. He explained that even if they can no longer come to church, he would still help to provide for them. We learned that Brother Gelzine had served as the churches Senior Deacon for over 40 years. Due to complications with glaucoma, he has been left blind for almost three years and can no longer attend services at church. Pastor Neal had brought us to Brother Gelzine’s home to serve him communion.
When we arrived at his home, Brother Gelzine’s wife greeted us with a warm smile, ushered us inside and offered us a seat in their living room. The room was tiny, with a love seat against each of the four walls, so that we were all seated around the coffee table. We listened intently to Brother Gelzine’s story. We were able to encourage him and pray over him for the Lord’s provision. Pastor Neal prepared the communion, we prayed and broke bread together. In that intimate moment, strangers became old friends and the love the Lord had for each of us resonated deep in my soul.
It is moments like these that make me wonder how I got here. What led me to Jamaica, to this tiny town (not even on the map), breaking bread with strangers? Leaving Higgins Land, I sat in the back seat of Pastor Neal’s car in awe of the Lord’s goodness. I am convinced that He placed the Race on my heart so that I could experience moments like these and be reminded of how much He loves us all.
Sometimes the Race can be hard and sometimes I really miss the comforts of home. But had I never said yes, I would have missed these little moments that He so perfectly ordained for me. My challenge to you is to say ‘yes.’ It doesn’t have to be traveling across the world. It could simply be taking the time to talk to someone He places on your heart, getting up early to spend time with His word, or even a simple prayer. Just say ‘yes,’ and I promise He will show up and blow your mind. Our God is so so good and He loves each and every one of us. Will you let Him show you?
