“A MISSION TO REMEMBER”

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” Romans 10:14-15 NKJV

I will never forget our end-term crusade at Sitio 13, Tarragona, Davao Oriental. The place is far from the national highway—more than an hour’s travel through rough and challenging roads, especially when it rains. We stayed there for over a month, and by God's grace, thirteen precious souls accepted Jesus as their personal Savior.

Nanay Isilba's Baptism

Among the many stories we witnessed, one touched us deeply—the story of Nanay Isilba, a 65-year-old widow living with her son. On our first visit, we found her alone at home. She welcomed us warmly and invited us in. While checking her blood pressure, one of my companions noticed her senior citizen ID—and to our surprise, we realized it was her birthday that very day.

But despite it being her special day, Nanay Isilba was heartbroken. Her children were not with her, and she hadn't seen them for over a year. As she shared her story, tears silently streamed down her cheeks. Her loneliness was heavy, and it was painful to witness.

At that moment, we decided to make her feel loved. We sang a birthday song and gave her warm greetings. Though her eyes were filled with tears, she smiled—grateful that someone remembered and celebrated her. We prayed for her and for her family to be reunited soon. That simple act of kindness opened her heart.

From that day forward, Nanay Isilba faithfully attended our nightly health and home seminar. She came without fail, every evening, until the final night of the crusade. When Pastor Jun Taotao made the call for baptism, Nanay Isilba stood and walked to the front,  choosing to accept Jesus as her Lord and Savior.

Until today, she continues to attend morning devotionals and evening worships. Her transformation and faith are a testimony to God’s power and love.

That experience in Sitio 13 reminded me that no place is too remote, and no soul is too forgotten for the love of God to reach. Even in the farthest corners, people are longing—for connection, for hope, for someone to simply care. God did not send us there just to preach sermons, but to become instruments of His compassion.

Name: Joben P. Perez | 1000MM 63rd Batch 

Hometown: Bay-ang, Batan, Aklan

Mission Field : Samal Island