Juan* grew up in Colombia and became involved with a gang at an early age. At age 16, he was already behind bars for robbery. He managed to escape and rejoined the gang he was part of. Over time, ten of his friends were killed. Many times, his own life was nearly taken. Juan realized God was giving him another opportunity to change his life. He stopped living on the streets and got a job.
Years later, Juan and some of his family journeyed to the U.S./Mexico border. They lived in a migrant camp and Juan became friends with a staff member from a conservative Anabaptist mission at the border. The staff member held Bible studies with Juan, pointing him to Jesus.
But time went on and Juan continued waiting and hoping to be allowed entry into the United States. Feeling discouraged about their situation one night, he cried out to God. That night he surrendered his heart to Jesus, understanding that true happiness comes from Him and not from getting into the United States. Juan’s story is not finished. Pray that he would continue to seek God.
