Dec 24, 2007

God arranges His disciples to meet with others who are searching for Him. He asked Philip to approach an Ethiopian eunuch; "The Spirit told Philip, Go to that chariot and stay near it." (Acts 8:29). He instructed Ananias to find Paul (Acts 9:13-17). He moved Peter to meet Cornelius, an Italian (Acts 10:21-22).

Today, God is doing the same thing. He has arranged a Christian in the Jayapura church to meet with his campus mate who had been seeking Him and His righteousness. The sister invited Arinal to attend a Bible talk in his campus. Arinal is an Economic student in his final year and happened to be a niece of a nationally well known businessman. He was excited to know more about Jesus. A few months later he started to study the bible, however still hesitated to come to church services as he has never attended such assembly before.

Arinal used to believe in another religion, he continued in it hoping that his life would please God. He read many books, however found none answering the questions he has in his mind. He felt uncertainty and insecurity, couldn’t be sure whether or not what he believe is right. He looked around and saw that the others who have the same belief with him, didn't seem to have any changed lives. Finally, one day he felt a great curiosity to know more about Jesus. He started to open his heart, and God let him see His power and love.

Strong objection from his father did not stop him from following Jesus, last Easter Arinal was baptized into Christ. It was a day he will always remember. His old life has died and ended, now he has a new life in Jesus and God is his Lord and Savior!

Arinal’s life has changed as he experienced the love of Jesus, and this has moved a friend who is staying in the same rented house with him. This friend has been experiencing some difficult time in his life and it has caused him to be drifted away from God. Inspired by Arinal, he tried to come to church again after 3 years of absent.

Right now this friend is studying the Bible and Arinal feel so grateful about it. Although he is busy preparing thesis to obtain his degree, Arinal always share his faith. He understands that it is truly because of God’s love that his life has been brought from darkness to light.

To God be the glory.