April 19
Bringing Hope
Amid Chaos
“He said to them, ‘Go into all the world. Preach the good news to everyone.’”
Mark 16:15, NIrV
David stepped off the dusty bus, his backpack heavy with supplies and his heart even heavier with uncertainty. The city, once vibrant, was now a scarred battlefield. Burned-out buildings lined the streets, and the distant sound of gunfire echoed faintly in the air. He had volunteered to come as a missionary, armed with food, medicine, and God’s Word, but the reality of the conflict pressed on him like a weight.
The first week was harrowing. Every step outside the small church-turned-shelter carried a risk. He met families torn apart by violence, children with haunted eyes, and countless people who had lost hope. Though he offered what little he could—food, medical care, and prayers—David often felt helpless.
One night, as he sat in the candlelit sanctuary, David’s doubts overwhelmed him. “What difference can I make, Lord?” he whispered, staring at his Bible. He flipped through its pages, and his eyes landed on Mark 16:15: “Go into all the world. Preach the good news to everyone.”
The words struck him deeply. “Preach the good news.” This wasn’t just about preaching sermons; it was about embodying hope, love, and grace in the darkest places. David knelt on the cold stone floor and prayed, “Lord, give me courage. Help me see these people as You do, and teach me to trust that You are working, even when I can’t see it.”
The next morning, David walked through the war-torn neighborhood, carrying a box of supplies. A young boy approached him, clutching a tattered soccer ball. “Can you play?” the boy asked shyly. For a moment, David hesitated. Was there time for something so simple? But then he remembered his prayer.
He set down the box and joined the boy in a makeshift game. Soon, other children emerged, laughing for the first time in weeks. The parents watched from nearby, some smiling faintly. That small act opened the door for conversations, prayers, and opportunities to share God’s love.
David realized that sharing the good news wasn’t just about words. It was about being present, listening, and showing compassion—even in the smallest ways. Over time, the shelter became a refuge not just for the body but for the soul. And though the war raged on, David saw glimpses of peace and healing.
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank You for calling us to share Your good news, even in the most difficult and broken places.
Like David, we often feel unworthy or unsure of how to help.
Give us courage to step forward in faith and trust that You are working through us, even when we can’t see the full picture.
Help us to embody Your love in our actions and words, bringing hope to those who are hurting.
Teach us to listen, to serve selflessly, and to trust that You are the source of healing and restoration.
Thank You for reminding us that no act of love is too small in Your eyes.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
