Stories

This Easter, at New Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, an 8-year-old boy named D.J. sat alone during an Easter outreach. He was the only child in his age group, and Miss Ruby, a faithful church volunteer, noticed him right away.

At first, she felt sad that no other children had come to sit with him. But then she realized God had given her a beautiful opportunity: one-on-one time with D.J.

Inside D.J.’s Easter Bag provided by Cru was a simple gospel
bead bracelet. Each color represented part of the good
news of Jesus. As Miss Ruby walked him through the
meaning of each bead, she discovered that D.J. knew
Jesus’ name, but had never personally placed his faith
in Him. He listened closely, asked questions, and
seemed eager to understand more.

After hearing the gospel, D.J. prayed with Miss Ruby
and received Christ as his Savior. She gently told him,
“Now you’re one of us. You belong to Jesus.”

But God was not finished.

When D.J. was reunited with his family, Miss Ruby asked if he would explain the bracelet to his parents. He eagerly said yes. With excitement, he shared what he had just learned. His
great-grandfather, Charles, heard D.J.’s simple gospel presentation and was deeply moved. After years away from church, Charles rededicated his life to Jesus. The next day, Easter Sunday, he was baptized.

Thank you for praying and giving so churches and volunteers can meet both practical and spiritual needs in their communities. Through your partnership, vulnerable families are being served, believers are being trained, and people like D.J. and Charles are encountering Jesus.