Story by Edward Marton
As we reflect on 2021, we are both saddened by the great losses the global pandemic has brought to many families and thankful that the Lord has led us through the challenges of ministry amid crises.
As the Ohio Conference youth director, it has been especially encouraging for me to witness the blessings God continues to pour out on us. Here are some of the highlights from the past year for which we praise God:
“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths” (Prov. 3:5–6, KJV).
Many times throughout my life, I have followed these passages, and the Lord has led me in the right path.
Several years ago, I lived in a mobile home that, unbeknownst to me, was affecting my health. I had been dealing with pneumonia for several months. One day, I saw an ad for an apartment and prayed for the Lord’s leading. I was able to sell my mobile home, and I moved into the apartment. I have not had pneumonia since!
“Your word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path” (Ps. 119:105, NKJV).
It seems as if the jungle, the mountains and rural areas are favorite destinations to send new ministers. I was no exception. My first district was in the deep forest of Nicaragua, surrounded by rushing rivers and deep lagoons. Our congregations resided in small communities nestled around these lagoons. Ninety percent of travel between them was by river, so we used an outboard motorboat to carry out pastoral work.
“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus” (Phil. 4:19, NIV).
Many people live from paycheck to paycheck. In fact, many are one paycheck away from being homeless. I’ve been there before.
I had three small children living in Texas. There was no food, no job, no money and no husband. I had one cup of rice and one cup of beans, and, like the widow in the Bible, I was going to make that meal and then try to figure it out from there. She had made up her mind to die; I wasn’t quite there yet, but I was very discouraged.
I was living in a town where I had no friends, church or family. My baby daughter needed milk, but I didn’t have any way to get it. I felt hopeless.
Story by Kasper Haughton Jr.