Journey To Jesus: Relationship Through Language Learning

My role with Mission Canada is that of a worker within our Neighbours and Newcomers Network. Daily, I am purposed to impact the lives of newcomers to Canada and those in my regional area who have yet to discover the transforming power of Jesus in their lives.

Recently, there has been a huge influx of refugees to Canada, many of whom are being housed in hotels in various cities across the nation. I’ve had the opportunity to meet various families and see their challenges having just arrived in the country. In doing so, I knew I needed to do something as there were just so many in need.

As I followed the news stories, it was heartbreaking to see families lose all their belongings, as they crossed into America from Mexico, everything except for the clothes on their back. I was prompted in my spirit to immediately gather basic items for them such as diapers, wipes, toiletries, clothes, strollers, etc.

As time went on, I noticed an additional need – these families had nothing to do while they were waiting for the government to process their entry. It’s an especially hard time for the children. They are just little kids who need a place to play. As I considered options, I was able to find a church nearby that opened their doors.  We partnered together and started some weekly programs for the families, including a family fun night where the kids could have a safe place to play once a week.

It also became evident that the majority of these precious families could speak little to no English. What a perfect opportunity to start weekly English classes! There is a special bond that happens when you teach someone your language. Language is so closely connected to culture. When you learn a language, you also learn about the ways of the people, their backgrounds, favourite foods, habits and much more. You are literally opening them up to your world and to your culture.

One day, after one of the English learning classes, a couple approached the teacher and started to ask about Isa (Jesus). They pulled out their cellphone where they had downloaded the Bible App and had been reading scripture. The couple began to read some of the scriptures that had spoken to them in a powerful way, and they wanted to know more. We met together after class and talked more about Jesus and what He has done for us. They admitted that they really need some of their physical needs met like finding permanent accommodation, school for the children, and jobs before they could focus on their spiritual needs. However, they were extremely open to the gospel and are really searching for the Truth.

As I go about my daily routine, the majority of people that I am meeting are from the least reached places in the world. Canada is their new home, and this is our chance to share the love of Jesus with them. I love the passage of scripture in the New Testament that says, “From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us”, Acts 17:26-27 NIV.

Since starting these programs, a few families have begun to visit church on a Sunday. These are people who have never been in a Christian church in their lives and have never met Christ-followers. Would you please pray along with me that many eyes would be opened to the good news of Jesus Christ, and that as we build relationships and show God’s love through sharing and caring that they would choose to receive the best gift of all … salvation through Jesus Christ.

I am grateful for the opportunity I have as a Mission Canada worker to walk alongside many families on their JOURNEY TO JESUS. It’s about showing practical love, caring for the necessities of everyday life, and then introducing them to my very best Friend!