I had amazing God-encounters with people on the 'shappa' (local Mozambican bus) on my way to Sunday church. My favorite one is when I met Marrarrah at the bus stop on the first Sunday. He was drunk as a skunk and making us all laugh, though the pity was masked. On one of his less drunk days we got to know each other a bit sharing about our lives. The next Sunday I asked him, "Marrarrah, how come you drink so much?" Thoughtfully he replied, "My Dad drank a lot and he was crazy, and so I have the same problems as he--I can't help it."
"Marrarrah, I know who can help you." and I went on to tell him about a man in northern Mozambique who asked for help to get free of his alcoholism. "Just ask Jesus and you can also get free of the drinking and the craziness. God loves you so much!"
He didn't approach me the next few weeks and then I motioned him over to me to give him a gift. I had a picture of Jesus that said, "Jesus I trust in you" and encouraged him to trust in God to help him.
The last week I was there, Marrarrah immediately came up to me when he saw me. He looked so different--peaceful, happy and he said, "Katie, I've left drinking and I even went to church today. I feel really good." If it was culturally appropriate, I would have given him a huge hug right then and there. That is a miracle in a place where an estimated 85% of the men have drinking problems.
If my whole time in Mozambique was for that one man, it was so worth it. I know he will never be the same. Maybe there is a neighbor in need of your love today. Reach out--you can make a difference too. It's easier than you think!
4 comments:
What a beautiful story! That's all God needs - someone to announce Jesus and another to take that step of faith that says, "Because of Jesus I DON'T have to be like my father before me." Tell him we're so happy for him! He must have a whole new life! Praise the Lord!
Susie
Kato, that is beautiful and I like what you said in regards to maybe that was the reason why you were sent to Mozambique. You never know what God has in your plan, and you may not know it at the time, but if we can all take that attitude of "It was God's Plan" as far as why things happen.
Your Sister, Sue
Hey Katie
Blessed Easter to you!!!
So glad you are going back to Sudan and to the Nuba Mountains. You've been in my prayers and will contuinue to be so. Looking forward to hearing how it goes and where God is leading.
Alleleuia!
Jodie
Thanks Susie and Sue and Jodi-- great to hear from you. Sis'--you're the best. Thanks for all your support and the updates on Aunt Mickey's funeral. Wish I could've been there with you...talk to you soon!
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