tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8141243820793877252.post-62385008975433702562008-04-08T09:06:00.000-07:002008-04-08T09:11:59.742-07:00John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him shall [not perish] but have eternal life.” As little children growing up in church, this is one of the first verses we learn. In all reality, if that is the only one we know it defines our religion plain and simple. On April 3, 2008, I went out with my ministerial team SOPÃO and we delivered soup to the homeless people in the streets. While awaiting our departure from the soup kitchen to the streets, I read this verse in Portuguese in [one of] the New Testaments they were going to give out that night. When we arrived at our first stop, there were quite a few people waiting. In my mind it was a normal Thursday night and as I began doing my normal thing I heard Vera in the background sharing John 3:16 with the people. As I reflected on this moment, I began hearing Louis explain about making this verse real in their life. As Louis came to a conclusion, he began inviting people to accept Christ at that very moment.<br /><br />There in the streets, where a ministry team was evangelizing a group of people, 7 people prayed the sinner’s prayer that night. They asked God to cleanse their hearts and transform them. As I looked across the crowd that had just gotten saved, I noticed a woman who comes every week, but this week she was changed. I saw a man crying tears of joy and relief. I heard and understood this prayer and realized that no matter what language you may speak, God understands and accepts all. I understood their prayers that day and it brought goose bumps to my arms. God is good and faithful and no matter where you are, He reaches out for you to take hold. The people received a New Testament that day and they received the Bread of Life, as well as, the bread that would fill their stomachs. Praise God! May you be willing to embrace the love of God and share it with those around you. God is saving people and His word is true everyday.<br /><br />by Leah BarkerJHallhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17427203804407422864noreply@blogger.com