DIRECTOR'S BLOG

Dr. Sam Martin

'Yes, ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it!’ John 14:14

The other day this verse came to mind as I opened up some pictures from Guatemala, including the one to the right of this text. It was the word ‘anything’ that made me think. Of course we know that the Lord Jesus loves us with an incredible unconditional love, that He meant what He said and that should encourage us. We can take anything to the Lord in prayer, we can ask Him for anything! Amazing Grace!

Well, I guess I should explain. Over the years as we have sought to reach out to needy children and families, seeking to provide for them spiritually, emotionally, physically, educationally, medically – well the list goes on, but it has been a privilege to do whatever we could in the name of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we take the initiative, having become aware of needs but other times we respond to the cries for help from individuals, parents, families. Some requests are relatively easy to meet, others more challenging but we do our best.

Recently we responded to cries for help from families suffering the effects of the Volcano de Fuego (The Volcano of Fire) erupting. Thousands suffered, many lost in the ash and homes were destroyed leaving the people in a desperate state. As a Mission, we responded immediately providing water, food and clothing. Then at the request of the Government, we built shelters for families and distributing cooking utensils.

Then came a strange request, a request from parents. In all the years we have ministered in Guatemala, never received such a request, but we listed and agreed to respond. The request was for ‘underwear for children.’ Yes my friend, ‘Ask anything …’ and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we responded and provided families, including the Mother and child in the picture with underwear! The people were thrilled and delighted!

Honestly as I see the families gathering around the Mission truck waiting for underwear, I could only smile and thank the Lord for the privilege of ‘doing unto the least of them’ what I believe Jesus would have done! Yes, ‘ask anything in my name and I will do it!’