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When GOD Gives the Increase

One bright Sunday morning, Gresilda was all smiles as she rushed home. “Our long-lost friend is alive!” She told her husband, Ontoy. “That’s wonderful,” he responded with excitement. Then he turned quiet as his mind flashed back to the time when they used to live in the mountains.

It has been about 35 years since Ontoy last saw their missionary friend, Charlemagne. They heard that the latter was suspected as double agent of the military and rebel groups. Ontoy’s plan was to be baptized on Charlemagne’s next visit, but the peace and order situation in the mountains got worse. They lost track of him.

Caring believers have watered the seed planted in Ontoy’s heart. Recently, among them are Rene and Rosalito - new preachers in Dumaguete City. The two also paved the way for Ontoy and Charlemagne to meet after over three decades.

Truth wins in the end. “I’ve only focused on spreading GOD’s word. And as a father of 11 children, I had to stop climbing troubled mountains,” Charlemagne explained. In their joyful reunion, Ontoy was very ready for baptism, but Charlemagne now in his 90s walks with a cane. Hearts were filled with mixed emotions.

Isn’t GOD a great provider? Rene and Rosalito were surprised and thrilled. They are both 35 years old! They were born at the time when Ontoy had initially planned to be baptized. Rene said eagerly, “I will be honored to immerse you, Nong Ontoy.” Charlemagne’s face glowed with joy. At the river bank, Rosalito gladly led group singing with Ontoy’s and Charlemagne’s children and grandchildren.

At the age of 65, Ontoy accepted the LORD in baptism at the river in Valencia in May 2021. “I’ve waited for this moment for sooooooo long,” Gresilda confessed with eyes sparkling with happy tears. Truly, no one can guess when GOD gives the increase.