Testimonies of Gratitude

     “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Ephesians 4:28  

     Ephesians 4:28 is on of El Jordan’s theme verses and it is a reminder of what we desire in the lives of our students. When they leave the life of the streets, full of addictions or easy money, we want them to work, living lives worthy of the gospel. It is easy to slide into the idea that an “honorable” goal for our students is that they rise up out of poverty, be more economically stable, and live “comfortable” lives. There is nothing bad about those things, those things often happen when a person comes to know the transforming power of Christ in their lives. However, this verse reflects something deeper and more important, “that they may have something to share with those in need. This is possible by knowing God, putting off the old self and putting on the new self, created to be like Christ Jesus.
     My heart is happy when I see this attitude budding and blooming in the girls´ lives. In these last weeks of quarantine our families haven´t had the opportunity to work or earn money day by day like they usually do. The majority have been completely dependent on help/donations that have come from outside Some of their attitudes have touched and challenged my heart, may they be an encouragement to you as well.
     One of our single moms, Laura who was on the streets for over two decades but has now known Christ as her Savior for four years, has a huge heart for those who are still on the streets. She is always willing to not only share her faith, but her time and any food or money she has. Last Friday, she cooked up liver and rice and took it to the street corners to share it with the street people to pray with them and care for them.
     Sonia, a relatively new as a student although someone we have known for over 20 years, received bags of lentils, rice, beans and more.  Although she has her 4 children at home, she shared half of what she had with Yessenia, whose situation right now is critical.
     Heidy Alejandra wrote me this yesterday, “Today I want to give thanks to God for His provision and for taking care of my family. I want to also thank those “angels” who donated so that my family and I don´t need to be hungry. Thank you very much because I know that some have given from the little that they have; I know that this epidemic is all over the world. Thank you very much, my deepest desire is that Father God will keep and protect each one of you and repay you in a great way. I don´t have enough words to explain how thankful I am to God and to you. Today I was able to share with two families from the food I received.” Marina wrote, “I thank those people who are helping us!!! With all that they gave me I was able to help a neighbor lady who didn't have anything and she says thank you very much as well.”
     Praise the Lord with us, for these examples of our girls living out Ephesians 4:28… with enough to “share with those in need.” May these examples also challenge you as you help others in need and see the Lord continue to work in mighty ways in these days.