Scripture “Haven’t I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don’t be timid; don’t get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take.” Joshua 1:9
A Word of Hope
Three years ago I met a person who came into my life at the perfect time. I was struggling in my personal and professional life with the fear of the unknown. One day this person agreed to being interviewed by one of youth for our mission trip project. It was then that I learned his story and his testimony inspired not only our young friends but me. See, he had come here from Mexico after selling his typewriter, a gift given to him by his brothers. He used that money to buy a one way bus ticket to the United States. He was leaving behind six years of seminary and his position with the Catholic Church. He was going to the land of the free where dreams came true. He arrived to the United States with a dollar in his pocket, hungry and unable to speak the English Language. He worked hard delivering newspapers in early mornings, walking dogs, gardening or doing any job that did not require him to have papers (documentation of legal status to work.)
The only thing this man had was a tourist visa, his Bible and a desire to serve God. He slept in the living room of a crowded family home. But he did not care because he knew that God’s spirit was with him and would open doors for him. He found a church who taught English classes at night and had a Pastor who believed in him. This Pastor took him to a University and helped him apply for scholarships. They both knew it was not guarantee that an individual without the language, an American education and a tourist visa would get accepted much less obtain a scholarship. Yet, he did and from that day on he kept working to get his degree. In 2012 he received his doctorate from Brite Divinity and three years ago he blessed Cathedral of Hope by becoming our Associate Pastor leading and serving our Hispanic community.
Rev. Alberto Magaña said to our young congregants “I help people in their darkest times because I am an expert in knowing that HOPE can be found in the middle of darkness. It is always about working hard even when many leave you or disappoint you. You have to believe that God won't ever leave you."
In our lives we might struggle in seeing that hope when we are surrounded with doubts or hurt. We can all relate in the fear of unknown. But, God is with us always, even when we are not at our best.
Prayer God may this year we find the strength and courage to keep on moving forward. Make us believers that we can do more than just survive. May we never forget that with you by our sides all things are possible. Amen