A Gentleman’s Salvation Under the Bridge

Moments after a divine encounter—our mission team stands with a new brother in Christ under a bridge in Mazatlán. What began with hesitation turned into a powerful testimony of God’s mercy, healing, and the joy of salvation.

Opening Reflections from the Field

Being part of the homeless ministry has taught me much about life. I’ve come to learn that the quality of our lives is reflected not in what we own, but in the fruit of our actions. Often, we begin these missions unsure of what to expect—but if we’re willing to be led by the Spirit, we end up just wanting to pour ourselves out.

This journey has reshaped how I see people. I’ve stopped looking at the physical and started looking toward the spirit within. Our bodies are only the temples that house our spirit. That understanding has opened the door to engage from the heart and see people the way God sees them.

The Encounter Under the Bridge

One such encounter was with the gentleman pictured above. He was sitting under a bridge with a wheelbarrow full of personal belongings and a makeshift PVC walking stick. In my own strength, I would have passed him by—but the Holy Spirit prompted me to go to him, and I obeyed.

So I sat beside him in the dirt.

With Danny, our interpreter, translating our words, we spoke about life—about its hardship and suffering—and the peace that can only come from Jesus Christ. I shared the truth that although our burdens vary, Jesus came to show us God’s love in the midst of it all.

Then I asked him the most important question: “Would you like to receive Jesus into your life?”

A Holy Moment of Salvation

With humility and a smile, he said yes.

Danny led him in a salvation prayer. It was a quiet, powerful moment. We thanked the Lord and gave him a copy of the Gospel of John. Ken then prayed over him, asking the Lord to walk with him and supply his every need. When we asked if he had a specific prayer request, he simply shook his head. His silence spoke volumes of humility, so we prayed a prayer of thankfulness.

When the Spirit Reveals the Need

It wasn’t until he stood that we noticed the walking stick made of PVC pipe. It was clear that healing was needed, and we included that in our final prayer. He openly received it with a larger smile than before. His joy grew as we spoke of the eternal glory that awaits those who trust in Jesus.

That moment under the bridge became a holy place.

What This Encounter Taught Me

It reminded me that we must always follow the leading of the Holy Spirit. God already knows whose hearts are open. Our role is simply to listen and obey.

Sometimes people don’t even know how to express their need—they may remain silent out of humility. But when we pray, the Spirit reveals what’s hidden. That’s why the prayer of thankfulness has become part of our mission. It opens the door for the Lord to show us what’s really needed—just like He did with this gentleman.

This experience, like so many others on this mission, testifies to the mercy of God. Jesus saves the brokenhearted. He is who He says He is. When we trust Him, He shows up in ways we never expect.

Scripture Reflection

"The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me,
because the Lord has anointed me
to proclaim good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners."
— Isaiah 61:1 (NIV)