God’s Grace Reaches Both Rich and Poor

In North America we’re accustomed to having many options, choices and discretion when it comes to medical care. In places like Ecuador, only the socially elite have a full range of choices and the economic ability to choose their healthcare provider.

Most often you hear stories in Amigos about Charity Fund cases or about poor people who were blessed by our ministry. This story is somewhat different, but the result is the same—to bring glory to God!

A picture speaks a thousand words, and actions speak louder than words. Maggie is such a case. Her family has the means to use any hospital—some of her options include the private, for-profit Metropolitan Hospital and even the modern Military Hospital. This wife of a retired, high-ranking military officer need not worry because she has the money to buy the best care available. Praise God, Hospital Vozandes-Quito is considered among the best medical facilities in Ecuador.

Maggie had open-heart surgery at our hospital three years ago. We established a good relationship with her because of her subsequent care. At the beginning of this year when Maggie, 59, was having difficulty breathing and couldn’t talk, her family knew where they wanted her to be treated.

There was a time during her month-long stay at Hospital Vozandes-Quito that she lost all vital signs, and her doctor didn’t think she would survive the night. But the Lord gave her a new lease on life.

Maggie, who had been in a Bible study that my wife led near Quito nine years ago, had made a profession of faith. But it wasn’t until her recent stay that she said the Lord had been “knocking at her heart,” calling her back to Himself. She repented and truly invited Him to become the Lord of her life. “The Lord is my shepherd,” she said.

I have visited with Maggie several times and witnessed firsthand her radiance for Christ. Our chaplain reported that she is “hungry to hear the Bible read.” Her husband also has made a profession of faith.

At Hospital Vozandes-Quito we provide God-honoring care to all, whether rich or poor. Our ministry and witness of God’s love is only possible because of the prayer and financial support of people like you. Thanks for allowing us to share this glimpse of God’s grace with you.