A Massage That Planted a Seed

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” — Galatians 6:9 (NIV)

While we were serving Ate Jean and Nanay Dading through simple health massage, another woman quietly watched from a distance. She, too, longed to receive a massage, but as a wife and mother, her days were often filled with responsibilities that left little time for herself. Her name was Ate Edith.

Ate Edith is a widow who now lives with a partner, while carrying the daily burden of providing for her family. Like many mothers, she carries wounds that are not always visible—grief, responsibility, and uncertainty woven into the ordinary rhythm of each day. Before offering physical relief through massage, we gave her something every weary soul longs for: an open and listening ear.

As we sat together, Ate Edith slowly shared the story of her life. She spoke lovingly about her children, whom she misses deeply, and remembered the painful loss of her husband, who unexpectedly passed away from cardiac arrest while working on Samar Island.

She also shared the burdens her family continues to face. Her second child had previously worked in Dubai but, after a difficult employment situation, could no longer return. Hoping for a fresh start, her child found work in Africa. Yet the new beginning came with unexpected challenges. Document processing required additional expenses, forcing the family to borrow money. After arriving in Africa, the promised salary was placed on hold while more fees had to be settled. It could take another year before her child could finally receive full earnings.

As if financial struggles were not enough, her child recently contracted typhoid fever—a disease that remains prevalent in the area. Access to proper medical care became another urgent concern. Listening to her story reminded us of a truth we often forget: behind every person we meet is a battle we cannot immediately see. That afternoon, our purpose was never merely to relieve tired muscles. It was to remind someone carrying years of pain that heaven still sees her. Sometimes ministry begins long before a Bible study starts. It begins when someone finally feels heard.

After the massage, we prepared to leave with grateful hearts. Then came another unexpected moment. Despite her own struggles, Ate Edith insisted on giving us some goods as a token of appreciation. We initially declined, assuring her that God faithfully provides for our needs.

But she smiled and insisted again, explaining that giving was simply her way of expressing gratitude. Humbled by her generosity, we accepted her gift—not merely as provisions, but as a reminder that kindness often flows both ways when God is at work. Before leaving, we asked if we could return for another visit—to continue serving through health massage and, in time, share God's Word with her. Her response filled our hearts with hope. "I'll message you when I'm ready." That day, we may not have seen the harvest yet. But we believe a seed was planted. And sometimes, all God asks of us is to faithfully plant the seed, trust Him with the growth.

We left her home believing that what started with a massage had become something far greater—a divine appointment arranged by God Himself. The story is not finished. A door has been opened. A friendship has begun. And a seed has been planted. As we continue this journey, we hold on to one beautiful truth: every act of kindness can become a seed of eternity. A listening ear can restore dignity. A gentle touch can open a closed heart. And one faithful step of obedience can become the beginning of someone's journey toward Jesus.

Name: Arceli Rose F. Montañez/66th Batch

Mission Field: San Luis, Quezon