As many of you know, Haiti is experiencing serious unrest, violence and chaos right now. It is really dangerous in most of the big cities… But on my last night in the smaller city of Pignon, I asked if it would be safe for us to walk around the city. “Yes, of course!” So as we set out down the dark streets lit by the pale moonlight… we had no idea what was in store for us. Besides the random speeding motorcycle or pothole we stepped in, our walk was peaceful. When we arrived in the “plaza” there were tons of people hanging out talking and laughing. I love how relational this culture is.
Soon after arriving 2 young men in their 20’s wanted to practice their English with us. It didn’t take too long until they had used up all the English they knew. Thankfully our friend Rous was there with us to help translate. After hearing their stories, my friend Tom shared his story of how Jesus changed his life. This opened the door for us to share the bridge illustration with them and how they could begin a relationship with Jesus. (we used a phone app as a visual aid – which attracted 3 other young men to come check it out). Eventually, all 5 men were in a circle listening to the gospel.
We then began asking them one by one, what side of the bridge they were on, Man’s side or God’s side. The first young man said that he was on God’s side. When we asked him how he crossed the bridge, he said that it was because of his good works and following God’s laws. We asked him if he
was perfect; he said,”Yes.” Have you ever lied, cheated etc? “Yes..” We reminded him, that God’s standard was perfection. That our good works could never earn us a right to have a relationship with God. That is why God sent Jesus…
The second guy also had the same response – By following God’s laws… When we asked the 3rd, he pointed to “man’s” side, but said that he wanted to be on God’s. When we asked him if he knew how to cross the bridge, he proceeded to share the gospel with us!!! It was amazing! We asked him if he would be bold enough to say a prayer to God out loud right now to declare what he just told us. “Yes!” His prayer was beautiful!
I could never have scripted a salvation prayer more sincere and on point.The 4th guy, still believed his good works were enough. The 5th young man said he was on man’s side, but wanted to be on God’s. When asked how to cross over, he also beautifully explained the gospel. When prompted, he prayed another prayer from his heart that was so powerful. It was incredible to see the Holy Spirit illuminated their hearts to understand the gospel in such a pure and sincere way.
As we started encouraging these 2 men about their new identity in Christ, the first 2 men said their goodbyes. But, 4th young man stayed deep in contemplation. Eventually I felt led to ask him a question, “Is there was anything holding you back from making Jesus the leader of your life?” “NO.” When asked if he knew how could begin a relationship with Jesus, it was like a light bulb went off in his head. He explained the gospel to us! He then proceeded to prayer a prayer of salvation in his own words.
What a night! While the rest of Haiti was on lock down with road blocks, riots and violence, this beautiful town of Pignon has peace – And 3 young men met the Prince of Peace. God is so good!
Here’s what is so cool… Minutes before we met these young men, I told Rouse, “This park would be a great place to start a new “church.” This pavilion would be a perfect place to meet.” Guess what Rous is going to be doing this week? Meeting with these 3 new believers and will begin discipling them here in the park!!! God had already prepared their hearts to receive!I can’t wait to see what happens when the church wakes up and realizes that this is what we are designed to do! There is no greater privilege in this world than to have the opportunity to partner with God to help others experience freedom in Jesus – And to then walk alongside them and disciple them!!! This is what we are created for!
God is already preparing hearts of people all around us to be transformed by the good news. All we need to do is tune in to His voice, open our hearts to see people through His eyes and lovingly/courageously share our story of freedom with those around us. “Let’s GO!”
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