Once without a home, job or support, everything changed when Sonia invited Janeth to church. There, Janeth discovered eternal hope!
Through the kindness of Sonia, Janeth discovered Jesus Christ and found eternal hope, strength and a new identity as His child. Now, she’s leading a group of 80 women, impacting lives just as Sonia did for her. Her journey is a powerful reminder that when we find our worth in Christ, everything changes.
The Power of a Changed Life
There was a time in Janeth’s life when she based her identity on what she didn’t have. She didn’t have a home, she hadn’t finished school, she had no steady job or income, she had no friends, she didn’t have a husband and the list went on. Thinking of what she did have did not comfort her either. Five children to feed, clothe, send to school, comfort, love and care for. It was hard to do any of these things when her own needs weren’t being met. It felt like she was pouring from an empty cup. But all that changed when she was invited to church.
Sonia led the food pantry ministry at one of Bright Hope’s partner churches in El Alto, Bolivia. She brought together eight women from the community to meet twice a month, where they worked on weaving projects and shared their stories. Through it all, Sonia offered encouragement and showed them genuine kindness.
The church food pantry offered Janeth low-cost food, which she deeply appreciated. But what touched her even more was the encouragement and kindness she received, which she carried home and shared with her children like a precious gift. When Sonia noticed signs of abuse in several women’s homes, she spoke with them and empowered them to take action. Through her words and actions, Sonia showed the women God’s love and gave them the courage to stand up for themselves.
Janeth Discovers Eternal Hope
Janeth’s eyes were opened to her new identity in Christ. She and her children began attending every church service they could. Her life changed! Her family changed! Life in her unsafe neighborhood was no longer a burden. She felt joy as she walked just one block to her church. She became so involved with her new church family that Sonia asked her to help. Now, Janeth serves as a leader among the group of almost 80 women.
Janeth shared, with a sparkle in her eye: “I used to think I was coming to buy flour and rice for my family to eat. But the spiritual food I have received is what is truly feeding me. It’s what keeps me going.”
The peace in her eyes, the confidence in her voice and the joy in her heart defy the identity Janeth once held onto. What was once a life of mere survival is now an abundant life full of purpose.
*************
You have an amazing opportunity to share Hope for Eternity with people like Janeth, who is living in extreme poverty. You can also empower local, in-country churches to make a lasting impact in their communities. Your generous contribution will enable these churches to disciple believers, share the Gospel and meet both the physical and spiritual needs of their communities.
