“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him.” (Jer. 17:7)
MAY WAS TWO YEARS OLD and her sister was four when their mother died. Their father remarried a woman who brought another child into the family. Later, there were three more children added. Every day was filled with turmoil and abuse in the household. May was born with a port-wine stain birthmark on her face. Children, even her siblings, made fun of her and called her names.
Occasionally the family attended church and Sunday school. Mrs. Baker was the girls’ Sunday school teacher. This godly woman took the girls to church activities, nurturing them along the way. Through Mrs. Baker’s example and encouragement, the girls grew to be women who endured and thrived. They were “like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream” (Jer. 17:8).
Years later, May could be found in Sunday school, teaching children and teens and leading Bible studies for women in prison. She shared stories of her struggles growing up, the trust she placed in God, and the strength her faith provided through the years. May would say, “It doesn’t come from what I do, but what God is willing to do for me. It’s all God’s grace.”
Remember a time you experienced God’s grace, then praise Him.
Viola Gommer and her husband live in Dallas, Pennsylvania. Their lives are enriched through family, church, community, and supporting world missions.
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