Few years ago, I went to Manila to make a living. Life in the city is hard especially that I don’t have any degree. It is getting worst when my live-in partner and I have three children.
One mistakes lead to another which ended up in illegal activities. I was caught redhanded and was imprisoned. While in the prison cell, some women came to visit our jail and talk about the love of Jesus. I was hesitant at first but since some of my cell mates joined the worship, I also joined with them. Later, I was baptised and joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church but it is because my friends were baptized too. I didn’t know that the seed of truth was already planted in my heart. After my jail time, I decided to go back to my hometown at Taganaan, Surigao del Sur together with my children. My livein partner had left me and I raised my children as a single dad. My past experiences in Manila had taught me a lesson that our endeavors were not enough without God. It was probably God’s provision that Bro. Dumangcas visited my home. He watered the seed in my heart and taught us about the Word of God and for some reason I was interested listening to what he teaches. He makes it more interesting because I could see that he is practicing what he teaches. In his meager income Bro. Dumangcas has helped us in many other ways. I understand now that God really loves me and I decided to be baptized again.
It was during this time that I need to find a school for my children. Bro. Dumangcas introduces me to Northeastern Mindanao Academy where my eldest child was accommodated by the school to study for free and my youngest child is sponsored by one of the teachers of the Elementary School. I was also hired to do some part time work at the school which become my source of income for our daily needs.
I could see the difference now being a Seventh-day Adventist. Before I only depend on myself, now I can depend on God and his providence.
I encourage those who are far from God to just come boldly to Him. You may not trust Him before but He is always very close to you.
My name is Bro. Jun Alutaya and I am a Seventh-day Adventist. I am thankful to the Gospel Outreach workers and sponsors for being the instrument that carries the message from God to me and my family.
Leave a Reply