40 Faces, 40 Places: A Devotional JourneySample

Daniel from the Democratic Republic of Congo

Sometimes whole-life discipleship looks like fighting for justice and equality.

My life is about proclaiming the love of the Lord to others while having a disability, which I developed at the age of 11. I share the love of Jesus Christ with my neighbors daily by four means: academic teaching, serving people with disabilities, supporting families and organizations, and life in the church. I am a teacher at the University of Lubumbashi, a doctoral student in HR management, and a pastor. My doctoral thesis is orientated towards the professional integration of people with disabilities.

I am also CEO of BEPSEE Ltd, whose mission is to contribute to the fight against poverty in Africa by marketing products and services that promote children's economic rights and social protection. Material poverty is a big challenge in our context, especially among people with disabilities, so we work to finance projects to help people who need it. The initiatives we take to help others often work out despite the rather difficult context in which we work. By this, we recognize the grace of God, all-powerful and active.

The model of theological reflection I learned has helped me improve the way I help others.

Reflection

Daniel sees God at work in his academic studies, business activities, and church roles – talk about whole-life discipleship! Despite facing some serious challenges, including his disability and the widespread poverty in his society, he is confident in God’s power and provision. Where do you need to be reminded that, in Jesus’ words, you can ‘take heart’ because He has ‘overcome the world’?

Daniel also acts to bring about economic justice for children and those struggling to integrate into work because of their disabilities. It’s no accident that he’s focusing on these things – as an entrepreneur with a disability, his unique gifts and perspective inform his good work. He understands business and what it’s like to be treated differently because of a disability.

What gifts and perspectives do you have that God could work through? How could you join in with His purposes this week – perhaps even due to things you might perceive as a weakness?

Prayer

Lord, like Daniel, help me to share the love of Jesus in multiple ways in the different contexts that You have placed me. Help me never ignore the poverty around me and Your world. Show me what I can do. Thank you for the reminder to ‘take heart’ – help me carry the confidence this brings into my day.