Everyone has a story to tell. When we make the connection between our story and God's great story, we come away with HIStory, which involves each and every one of us.
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"You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away" (James 4:14).
Life is so precious. Yet it’s so short. I was reminded of this yesterday when I received the heartbreaking news that one of our sponsored boys in Guatemala had passed away. It was shocking news. He had been admitted to an amazing facility 5-1/2 hours from his home two months ago where he was receiving special medical attention and therapy. He had even gained 12 pounds and his recovery was looking very promising. His grandmother and little brothers back home awaited his return over the next year. They anticipated his return in a much healthier, more stable condition. But his homecoming would not be back to his hometown. His homecoming was far greater as He was received in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father. This sweet child, Alex, was 18 years old and only weighing 50 pounds when his grandmother began calling out for help to nearby communities. The nearest village heard of his condition and began searching for assistance. The malnutrition and detrimental health conditions he had developed were advancing and his body was rapidly deteriorating. Every week, every day, every second counted. A few people noticed, reacted and found him the help he needed. He was finally admitted into an amazing hospital where for two months he received optimal care and attention. His condition had become too severe, however, and his short life ended yesterday. The news of his death stings. The news hits you like a bucket of cold, icy water. It devastates you and leaves you numb. But then it awakens in you a new mission; a new vision and you pass the point of no return. As tears run down my cheeks, I’m saddened to my very core, but I’m also awakened like never before to tell his story in hopes that others will notice and choose to see. We must do something. We must be moved in love toward relieving the plight of children living in poverty in Jesus’ name. Good intentions are not enough. Intentions put into action are the only way to cause change. Today we celebrate Alex’s life. It was short but because of him we pray his brothers will live healthier lives as they receive medical attention, meals and education. Alex is one of many children suffering from severe malnutrition in Guatemala, the U.S. and around the world. Will you notice? Will you see? Will you react? Will you help fight against poverty? As John Piper so beautifully puts it: “Time is precious. We are fragile. Life is short. Eternity is long. Every minute counts. Oh, to be a faithful steward of the breath God has given me.” Our life is but a vapor here on earth. Let’s make it count! In the coming weeks, Seek Prayer Always will be coming up with a plan that will allow you to directly support and help these children. In the meantime, you can donate or sponsor a child in the link above. "I woke up this morning Saw a world full of trouble now Thought, how'd we ever get so far down How's it ever gonna turn around So I turned my eyes to Heaven I thought, "God, why don't You do something?" Well, I just couldn't bear the thought of People living in poverty Children sold into slavery The thought disgusted me So, I shook my fist at Heaven Said, "God, why don't You do something?" He said, "I did, I created you" If not us, then who If not me and you Right now, it's time for us to do something If not now, then when Will we see an end To all this pain It's not enough to do nothing It's time for us to do something I'm so tired of talking About how we are God's hands and feet But it's easier to say than to be Live like angels of apathy who tell ourselves It's alright, "somebody else will do something" Well, I don't know about you But I'm sick and tired of life with no desire I don't want a flame, I want a fire I wanna be the one who stands up and says, "I'm gonna do something" If not us, then who If not me and you Right now, it's time for us to do something (yes, it is) If not now, then when Will we see an end To all this pain It's not enough to do nothing It's time for us to do something We are the salt of the earth We are a city on a hill (shine shine, shine shine) But we're never gonna change the world By standing still No we won't stand still " Read more: Matthew West - Do Something Lyrics | MetroLyrics
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8/7/2016 11:09:49 pm
They anticipated his return in a much healthier, more stable condition. But his homecoming would not be back to his hometown. Leave a Reply. |
Damaris U. Avila lives with her loving husband and their two inquisitive and sweet girls. Through personal storytelling, she invites women to share and see themselves in God's story. She leads young girls through BeYOUtiful Girl Time, a sisterhood where girls are encouraged to become the women God designed them to be.
"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people."
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