GOD’S LOVE AND GRACE

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

Psalm 34:18

Ross was stunned by his siblings’ revelation: their parents had bought a funeral plot for him, anticipating his demise. For two decades, they lived with the fear of receiving a dreaded phone call about his death. Raised by Adventist parents in Queensland, Australia, Ross initially attended an Adventist primary school. However, he later switched to a public high school, where he encountered a different world. After graduation, he moved to Brisbane for college and gradually drifted away from God.

To sustain himself, Ross took up bartending, which led him into a downward spiral of substance abuse and illicit activities. Despite his search for happiness, he remained empty and dissatisfied. One evening, contemplating suicide on Story Bridge, two strangers approached him and offered to pray. Though initially dismissive, something in their prayer stirred him, prompting him to step away from the brink.

Reflecting on the encounter, Ross was shaken by the realization that he had caught the attention of a higher power. Later, learning of his parents’ failing health, he felt compelled to reconnect after two decades of estrangement. Though his father passed shortly after their reunion, Ross cared for his mother, who wished to attend church every Sabbath. Reluctantly joining her at first, Ross found himself drawn to the message
of hope and redemption.

Through church, Ross discovered Hope Channel and its resources, particularly Hope Sabbath School. Regularly listening to the podcast deepened his understanding of God’s love and grace. Inspired by his newfound faith, Ross immersed himself in studying the Bible and became actively involved in church activities. Despite his past, he felt his calling to serve as a pastor, believing in God’s ability to use even someone with his
history for His purpose.

Now ordained, Ross dedicates his life to sharing God’s message of hope and redemption, aiming to inspire others facing struggles like his own. His journey stands as a testament to the transformative power of God’s grace. Ross’s story underscores the profound impact of Hope Channel in spreading God’s love and redemption.

Please, pray for our missionaries, volunteers, and Global Mission Pioneers. Your faithfulness sustains their ministry

CHALLENGE FOR THE FAMILY: Let’s focus daily on Jesus’ love and hope. As a family, read the chapter 3 “Repentance” from Steps to Christ. You can read 6 paragraphs each day, discuss, and pray for Jesus’ love and grace to touch your family as it did for Ross.