Joanna Agustin

The Joy of Service

By Joanna Agustin

I wanted to serve God in a way that I have not done before. Thus, after a lot of thinking and praying, I gave my commitment to join the medical mission in General Santos. There were a lot of questions running in my mind. What will I do there?  Who I will be with? Is it dangerous there? God just reminded me that obedience is better than sacrifice (1Samuel 15:22). I have been living comfortably in Singapore for years so once again, I asked myself, “Am I willing to be present where I am needed away from convenience?” This is a challenge for me but by God’s grace and assurance I made it there.

I was with amazing people doing our morning devotion- praising, giving thanks, enjoying His wonderful presence and uttering His faithfulness in awe. I asked, “Lord why am I here? Do I play a role here? These great people of yours can execute Your plan well without me”.  But He just impressed it on me that we are all part of one body and each of us has a significant role to play. He placed me where He wanted me to be  (1Corinthians 12:18). He is delighted. He is watching and enjoys what He is seeing. He is pleased with His children’s faith (Hebrews 11:6). There, my Heavenly Father in His gentle and loving way assured me.

The Lord opened my eyes to see the joy of those in need, not to worry but to be free and “To know that in all things God works for good, for those who love Him and are called for His purpose” (Romans 8:28).  I am forever honored and grateful to God for making me a part of this team.  I thank Mary Ann for opening the doors for me to gain more brothers and sisters in Christ, my mother and friends for interceding for me and the wonderful volunteers from Victory-GenSan for helping us make the medical mission truly a success. 

To God be the glory. He is sovereign. He makes everything beautiful and sensible in His time.