Mar 12, 2019 The power of belonging

Everyone wants to belong. But sometimes when you don’t have a shared background, it is easy to feel like you don’t quite belong. Pastor Dem Robles shares how the mission team he lead in Cavite, Philippines, deeply connected with each other, despite their differences:

One of the most meaningful experiences I had on our mission to Cavite actually involved a fellow team member. She did not share our Adventist faith, but had such a heart for God and service to others that a friend invited her to join us. She was excited to come along, despite some misgivings.

One evening, during our team worship and evening meal, she stood up and gave a heartfelt testimony about her worries of being an outsider and explained that she felt a bit hesitant about fitting in. The group was overwhelmed with the power of her words. In response, they stood up and embraced her. They reassured her that she belonged to them, that she was truly a part of the team.

That evening proved to be a game-changer for all of us. Her fears subsided, and we each felt such love and support for each other. Throughout the trip she powerfully testified to young and old, children and adults. She was a living example of how following Jesus offers us a deep sense of belonging. We still keep in touch, although not nearly often enough. But we are forever teammates in the service of Christ.