I held a series of evangelism meetings at the San Rafael Church in Santa Ana, El Salvador during The Quiet Hour evangelism campaign, March 11-26, 2005. I was with a group of 15 students and staff from Laurelwood Academy in Oregon. This story is the highlight of my experience there and the whole reason for my going.
I team-preached with my friend, Luiza. Two of the students from Laurelwood also had a desire to preach. We gave each of them the opportunity to preach one sermon.
Logan chose to speak about the gospel. One Salvadoran teenage boy about Logan's age made a decision for baptism at the end of the sermon. Logan said that really affected him. He stated that he had experienced what mission trips are all about, influencing people so that they may have true peace and hope in their lives. Logan's friend Colby videotaped his sermon. Later that night, Colby asked Luiza if he, too, could preach a sermon. Of course we let him. He chose to preach about hell. Luiza worked with him and the sermon went well.
When I listened to the altar call Colby made, I know God was working in and through me. During his appeal, he shared with the people that God has always been near to him but that he had not realized it. He said, "I've waited too long. I want to be baptized." Then he appealed to the people to delay no longer. Once again, two teenagers came forward, and were baptized right away.
After their baptism, Pastor Vilchez made another call. "Is there anyone else who would like to give their life fully to God?" Colby stood and went forward.
Luiza and I were in shock, and so excited! Luiza ran to get Colby's mom and two friends who were helping with the children's meetings nearby.
This time, Logan was videotaping Colby. Before baptizing Colby, Pastor Vilchez made yet another call. Then Colby made another appeal. Luiza leaned into the baptistery and whispered something to Colby. Colby turned and looked straight at Logan and said, "Logan, do you want to be baptized? Don't wait any longer!" You could see Logan melt. The video camera practically fell from in front of his face. He handed it to Luiza and walked to the baptistery.
Both these young men were changed because they shared their hearts with someone else. They had been taking in the information all their lives, but it was only information to them. But when they shared their faith, it became personal and God changed them!
That is why I go on mission trips. God is in the business of changing lives, no matter if it is the people of El Salvador or my heart. He wants to show His love and power! |
