A Week I Will Never Forget

This experience is one I will always carry with me.

My partner and I were assigned to two different mission fields to conduct simultaneous evangelistic meetings. He was sent to Igabay, Balabagan, Lanao del Sur—a predominantly Roman Catholic area—while I was assigned to a Tausug community.

To be honest, I felt afraid. I had some understanding of the background and culture of the Muslim community, and it made me anxious. On the first night, only a few people attended. I was tasked to preach, share Bible stories, and lead the children’s songs. This was far outside my comfort zone. I usually assist with music or sing occasionally, but public speaking and teaching have never been my strengths.

Still, I remembered a dream I once had—that after my missionary term, I would be able to stand confidently and preach in public. That dream encouraged me to move forward despite my fear.

The first few nights were challenging. The program flow was not very smooth, and I had to take on multiple roles: song leader, presider, special number presenter, speaker, and teacher. It was physically and emotionally exhausting.

Yet, in the midst of the challenges, there was something deeply rewarding. Each evening, as we arrived at the venue, the children welcomed us with warm smiles and cheerful greetings. Their joy and enthusiasm lightened the burden I felt and reminded me why we were there.

As the days passed, the program gradually improved.

However, one evening, a man arrived carrying a gun and walked around the area. I felt a surge of fear, especially given the unfamiliar environment. Nevertheless, I continued speaking and delivering the message, doing my best not to show my anxiety. Later, we learned that he was simply looking for his children. When he saw them listening attentively, he left peacefully without causing any harm.

I was deeply grateful to God for His protection.

Throughout the week, the children grew closer to me. Some even gifted me fresh fish from the sea as a token of their appreciation. Their kindness and happiness over the program touched my heart.

At the end of the week-long evangelistic meeting, I thanked God sincerely. He helped me overcome my fears and gave me the courage to share the gospel. Truly, with God, what seems impossible becomes possible.

We experienced another moment of God’s protection on our way from Lanao del Sur to Lanao del Norte, near Sultan Naga Dimaporo. I was driving at around 110 kph when I suddenly felt dizzy and momentarily lost focus. Unexpectedly, a tricycle crossed our path. I braked immediately—it was a terrifying, split-second moment.

My partner only realized what had happened when he felt the motorcycle wobble. Everything occurred so quickly, yet it could have ended tragically. By God’s grace, we were spared.

That incident humbled me deeply. Life is fragile, and every breath is a gift. I am profoundly grateful that God preserved our lives. These experiences strengthened my faith and reminded me that God does not abandon those He calls. He sustains, protects, and guides them through both visible and unseen dangers.

Looking back, I see that this mission was not only about reaching others—it was also about refining me. God used that week to stretch my faith, develop my courage, and teach me to depend on Him fully. Truly, with God, what seems impossible becomes possible.

All glory and honor belong to Him alone.

Name: Jay Durotan I 1000MM 63rd Batch

Hometown: Tabango, Leyte

Mission Field: Balabagan, Lanao Del Sur