Mother’s Day was made exceptional this year for the two dozen mothers who were honored in a special ceremony. They are the mothers of the youth that participate in the “Christ’s Athletes” ministry. About 70 gathered for the event. I spoke on how our mother’s love for us is an expression of God’s love for us. His love is only fully realized in Jesus.

This ministry began three years ago by a Christian couple who decided to help their neighbors learn about Christ. Alciene and Ricardo are two of the first fruits of the mission effort here. A few years ago Alciene nearly died from leukemia (she got so bad we thought God was calling her home).

When she recovered, she decided to make the years that God had added to her life count in a special way. With their own children now grown, she and Ricardo started a project of sharing Jesus through love and sports with the youth in their neighborhood. Many of them come from poor, one-parent homes with little or no opportunity for healthy activities and friendships. Some fall into drugs and crime as they grow up. However, Jesus has a bright future for all who seek him.

Please remember in your prayers this couple and those they touch with God’s love.

“‘…honor your father and mother,’
and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’”

— Matthew 19:19