In the bustling city of Butuan, a young man named Ariel, at the age of 23, found solace in his morning devotional at Alumni Church. As he opened his Bible and began to absorb the message, he became completely engrossed, unaware of the world passing by. His small notebook quickly filled with notes, capturing the verses that resonated with him.

Ariel’s upbringing was far from ideal, marked by chaos, abuse, and neglect. Eventually, his parents, burdened by debt, made the difficult decision to give him up for adoption. In the aftermath, Ariel turned to unlawful vices and even entered into a cohabitation arrangement with a woman.

However, everything changed when illness struck Ariel’s life, and he found himself turning back to God. Through a bible study provided by a devout Adventist family, he began to learn and explore the scriptures.

Two years after his baptism, Ariel had the opportunity to attend his first youth congress at Mountain View College in Bukidnon. This week-long camp opened his eyes to a whole new world of knowledge and understanding. The insightful lessons and stirring sermons, delivered by Pastor Dan Smith, left a lasting impact on Ariel. One particular sermon on marriage and sex struck a chord within him, as he could relate to the struggles he had faced in his own past relationship.

The Youth Congress of 2023 served as a catalyst for Ariel’s desire to deepen his faith and trust in the One who had saved him from a life of chaos. He expresses deep gratitude to those who never gave up on him and guided him towards Jesus as his Savior.

Ariel’s story serves as a powerful reminder to young people everywhere to answer God’s call to minister to those who have lost their way. Now is the time to inspire, teach, serve, and emulate the character of Jesus as we are commissioned for His work. Let us respond to God’s invitation and extend the same unconditional love we have received to people like Ariel.

By Sandra Day Batobalunos
SPUC ComDept