I Know You Will Provide

“The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own…” Acts 4:32

Today, it will be very difficult to find a community like the first group of believers where the followers of Christ sold their homes and gave the proceeds to the community. But there are still people who will put God’s mission and will before their own personal benefit. I just finished reading the autobiography of Vic Gutierrez, one of the early members of the core group of our community, Ang Ligaya ng Panginoon (The Joy of the Lord). 

Back in 1976, Vic was asked by Father Herb Schneider, the leader of the newly formed community, to consider giving up his job as vice president of a small PR-advertising company to work full time to shepherd the Word of Joy Foundation. This was a fledging enterprise designed to make Catholic literature and cassette tapes regarding the charismatic renewal available to the public. Vic and his wife Agnes had been married little over a year, Agnes had quit her job to be a full-time mother to their baby Joy, and they were paying off their loan for the house they had built. The stipend Father Herb mentioned was barely enough for the needs of a growing family. It seemed ridiculous for Vic to even consider it, but the couple prayed for hours before the Lord. After adding up their monthly expenses, it did not seem the money would be enough to live even a very simple life. But after discerning, they both agreed it was the Lord’s plan for them. Vic held up the paper with their computations, and holding Agnes’ hand, he prayed, “Lord, I commit my family to you. I know You will provide.” 

The very next day, Vic spoke to his good friend and business partner about his plan to quit. Tony Vasquez, instead of dissuading him, volunteered to give Vic a monthly subsidy to help with his finances. Amazingly, the amount was exactly what they needed to fill the lack! God used his friend Tony to confirm His plans for Vic and Agnes. 

Through the years, God has continued to bless and provide well for Vic and his family as He obeyed God in the many ups and downs of their journey. Vic has been able to testify that indeed, “I know the plans You have for me, Lord, plans for a future full of hope” (Jeremiah 29:11). 

We may be sure that the Lord of the Universe is ready and willing to take care of us as we desire to obey and follow Him! Do not be afraid! He goes before us always!