From Unlikely Places
There are some places in New Zealand, as I’m sure there are elsewhere, where it seems unlikely that the gospel could ever reach anyone. Whether it be because of geographical location, cultural divides, social welfare challenges or other dominant influences already existing in that community. Kawerau is the place where my family were introduced to Jesus. A small forestry town, defined by bad statistics and unlikely to do much for your prospects—you didn’t thrive in Kawerau, you survived.
My story isn’t one that goes back generations, claiming a deep heritage in the Adventist Church. Biologically I am a first-generation Adventist. However, it is through the faith of a Māori Adventist man, that I now stand on the shoulders of other staunch believers who I claim as part of my spiritual whanau (family). Not uncommon to Māori are the foundations of faith and the art of oral communications. To stand in your beliefs and to openly share them with others is simply a part of everyday life.
So, it makes sense that when my mother became unwell when I was 10 years old this Māori man, who worked in the same office building began to openly pray with her. This new prayer connection then led our families to meet in each other’s homes to eat, pray and grow together. Before I knew what was happening, we were part of a church, but more importantly, we were part of a new church family doing faith and life together.
It all started because a man who knew Jesus wasn’t afraid to pray with a woman who didn’t. The Adventist movement is full of stories like this. Men and women who are fearless in their faith and genuine in their love for others. So, I ask you today, who is God calling you to pray for and who is He calling you to pray with? Trust in His power as He reaches the hearts of the lost through your simple, yet life-changing prayers.
Verse of the day:
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:7.
Sarah-Jane Riley is the discipleship pastor at Papatoetoe Seventh-day Adventist Community Church in North New Zealand, and she loves exploring Aotearoa (NZ) with her fluffy companion Baxter.
