From Grief to Relief

July was the worst month to imagine; everything seemed bleak. Jeshra's condition was becoming desperate, she could not walk; thus, I had to carry her. My father-in-law was also sick so medicines and doctor’s consultation must be done regularly. Time, effort and money were needed in order to survive. Then came August, the burden became lighter because of the prayers  given by our fellow believers; Jeshra’s condition became better; slowly her multiple seizure attacks were almost gone. We praise God for this miracle; my father-in-law also agreed to stay in Manila so professional doctors can monitor his illness. 

All was fine; however, in the last week of August my father-in-law decided to go home for he felt weak in the city.  Just a few kilometers home, God took him. We were all shocked to hear the news so that night we immediately packed some clothing and traveled to Natonin, Mt. Province. We traveled for 10 hours to reach the mountains. Our arrival was emotional; my mother-in-law and the whole family cried because of what happened.

We conducted a short devotion on the first night; We sang Christian songs and God worked in our hearts. Indeed, Only God can give true peace and consolation.

My father in law was a devoted Roman Catholic, a poor man but he inspired a lot of people to go to church and listen to the priest. The place was so isolated and poor; thus, the priest only came once in every two months- they worship only by themselves without any trained laymen to lead them. I was worried at first if they would allow me to preach but God worked. People who attended the wake were interested and happy to listen to God’s Word. God gave me eight days to preach the Gospel because God loves them too.

In our last night, their leaders begged us to come back and teach them basic Christian doctrines because their knowledge about God’s Word is only limited. I and Amabel agreed.

Many people came to help us during our grief. It is also a joy to preach God’s Word to these kind and sincere people. I believe God loves everyone and gave His life to all.