Come to Jesus

There is a song that Chris Rice sings called, "Come to Jesus". The song begins by saying, "Weak and wounded sinner, Lost and left to die, raise your head for love is passing by, so Come to Jesus, Come to Jesus, Come to Jesus and live." After this, he goes on to describe the different seasons of life. I share this song with you because it highlights one of the most important things that we have learned this week. We must meet people's spiritual needs before we meet their physical or emotional needs. As we saw the people of Santa Rosa, our hearts became broken over their current situations. We began to hear the stories of children who have lost their parents. We saw holes in roofs with plastic hanging over a bed for protection. When you are met with these conditions, our first response may be to meet their physical needs. Before we do this, we must take them to the One who has given us life. They must know the One who gives us hope, peace, and joy. Then, they can receive the peace that God will provide for them. In Matthew 6, Jesus says, "Your father knows what you need before you ask Him." Matthew 6:8. Our Father knows their needs, but they need to be filled with His presence in their life before placing value in things.

Our conditions in the United States are quite different. We have our needs met, and we also have many of our wants. Because we do have food, shelter, and clothing, our needs seem to be more emotional. We need to speak with friends about our lives. Just as we should take the people of the Dominican Republic to Jesus, we must also take our friends and family to Jesus first. We should let them see that a life in Jesus is better than anything that this world can offer.

Our lives have changed drastically since we left. Each person on our team learned so much about each other and the people of the Dominican Republic. I am so thankful for the blessings that I have received from them. Each person's life was changed this week. We have grown more boldness in sharing; we have developed a deeper heart for those who are in need. We have grown so much closer to the Lord. One of the greatest things that we have seen this week is that when we step out on faith to go, the Lord WILL provide. We encourage you all to go; we want you all to meet and grow with the Lord. Please begin to pray for a trip, a place, a date. Then, step out on faith, and go. In this life, you will never be disappointed when you place your fears, your vulnerabilities, and your future in the Lord's hands. He is the I AM, and he will provide. Will you go and let Him transform your life?