Getting to know the Great Physician

When Shilu was given a chance to join Gospel for Asia's Bridge of Hope program, it was the first time he had a chance for a real future. And although he didn't know it yet, it was also his first chance to find hope.

Shilu's parents rejoiced that he was even receiving an education. He now had a safe place to play and learn. He was so happy with the other children.

But their hearts ached as they watched him limp around the schoolyard. An illness had left Shilu crippled in one leg. Doctors told them it was paralyzed, and they had no money to treat their little son.

Pastor Pakoli, the GFA missionary who served at the Bridge of Hope center, knew about Shilu's crippled leg. He also knew of the gods and goddesses Shilu's parents worshipped who could do nothing. With compassion, Pastor Pakoli went to visit the family with a story about the Great Physician.

"Peter and John went up together to the temple," he read from Acts chapter three, describing the encounter they had with the lame man who begged at the gate. Then came Peter's challenge:

"Silver and gold I do not have," Pastor Pakoli read, "but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk."

The story gave Shilu's parents new hope. They learned that Jesus Christ was not a god whose powers could be bought through sacrifices or offerings. As Pastor Pakoli explained God's love and desire to redeem their lives through His Son's sacrifice, Shilu's parents trusted Christ to heal their son. Pastor Pakoli prayed for Shilu's healing, and the little boy jumped to his feet, walking normally.

As in the story in Acts, Shilu now ran and played with the other children, "walking, leaping, and praising God" for his miracle. Three days later, he stood in front of all the children at his Bridge of Hope center to tell about—and show—what God had done in his life.

"No one present could stop praising God," wrote a field correspondent. "Praise God for healing Shilu and making him a witness to many."