A recent Global Aid Network project almost stopped before it started. Only a few days before their scheduled departure, team leaders received previously unannounced and thus totally unexpected demands from government officials of the receiving country. Certification of medical personnel would be required prior to the team’s arrival. A more complicated assessment of incoming medications would be necessary. All this and more made team leaders, Frank and Ruth Luter, wonder if the team, medical equipment and medications would even make it through customs. 

An urgent plea for prayer went out, Frank scrambled to gather documents, and after several delays, the team boarded their flight. Weary from travel and stress, they eventually landed at their destination, wondering how God would clear the path.

While there were some delays in the capital city, the team finally arrived in-country and began setting up the clinic. The doctor, nurses and other volunteers treated long lines of people who had walked even longer miles. Those working in the cramped and steamy pharmacy dispensed the prescribed medications. Each evening team members wearily gathered to pray—and sometimes weep—over the day’s people and experiences.

They especially prayed that they and the national Christian leaders would find favor with the government so evangelism and discipleship could move forward with vigor in this difficult place. Without being told all the details, they were aware of surveillance by government informants. One young man especially caught their attention. Shaddy* closely watched every procedure but seemed particularly interested in the gospel bracelets that were given to everyone who gathered at the clinic. These are simple bracelets with beads of various colors used to explain the good news of salvation.

Shaddy had somehow acquired several bracelets and was passing them out while he talked with the people, but Frank suspected that the message being given wasn’t quite accurate or complete. “Shaddy, let me explain the bracelet message so you know it very well,” said Frank. After the explanation, Frank asked, “Shaddy, have you ever committed your life to Jesus and asked Him to forgive your sins? After further conversation, the young man bowed his head and trusted Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord. Shaddy didn’t keep his new-found faith to himself but immediately began sharing his new life in Christ with clinic members who observed that he even looked different.

End of story? Not quite. As frequently happens in many countries around the world where Global Aid Network teams minister, local and national dignitaries requested a final meeting to recognize the team for their efforts. After mutual thanks were expressed, one of the local pastors stood and said, “In addition to helping our people in the villages by addressing their physical needs, we were sharing with them how Jesus could meet their spiritual needs.” At this point, he turned to Shaddy: “Why don’t you explain the bead bracelet to our honored guests?” Shaddy—a twenty-four-hour-old Christian—handed bracelets to each of the dignitaries, simply and beautifully explaining the gospel.

Hundreds of people were treated for their often severe physical conditions, but there was great rejoicing in heaven—and in the hearts of Global Aid Network team members—because Shaddy finally understood what it meant to be a child of the King and eagerly shared his new faith with leaders who hold the future of that country in their hands.

Who knows the ultimate outcome of the faithful service of a handful of Christians willing to forego the conveniences of home, sacrificing time, strength and money for a brief period. They had heard Jesus’ words: “Open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest” (John 4:35).

 

*A fictitious name is used to protect his identity.