Among the Mountains

This past week, we had the opportunity to travel six hours north from where we’re staying. Our time in the mountains has been full of hiking—up the mountain... and then back down again—visiting villages where we share our testimonies and encourage others.

In one village, my teammate shared her story, and a family opened up about a hardship they were facing. It was such a beautiful moment of connection and vulnerability. Times like that really remind us how important it is to simply go, share and trust God with the results.

One day while we were there, we traveled another two hours north to help open a new area. During the ride, the reality of unreached people hit me deeply. There are still so many who haven’t heard. Our whole team was filled with excitement as we walked into the village, ready to share the gospel of God’s grace and the testimonies of how He’s worked in our lives.

As I moved around taking pictures of our group and the ones sharing, I noticed people hiding behind a wall—pretending not to be interested but still listening closely. It reminded me of how people would quietly listen to Jesus wherever He went. The people in the village were very open to what we shared, and I thank God for opening up this new area for a Bible study!

Please pray for the Manide tribes in the north, and that God would continue to open areas and open hearts to hear the truth.

(2 Corinthians 4:4)

At night, the air was full of guitar strumming and sweet singing—Tagalog and English blending together in the prettiest way. We also had plenty of time to rest and get to bed early!

As we left the mountains and headed back, our hearts were full—full of stories, full of gratitude, and full of awe at what God is doing in places many will never see. From quiet listeners behind corners to joyful songs under the stars, from moments of vulnerability to shared testimonies across cultures, we were reminded again and again: God is moving. He’s opening hearts, opening doors, and writing stories of redemption everywhere. We’re just honored to be a small part of it.

On our last night, the missionaries we stayed with shared their testimonies. God is so amazing! Hearing how their stories related to ours—growing up in Christian homes, facing hardship, and running back to the Lord—was such a reminder that we’re not alone. It was powerful to meet believers from another culture with such similar experiences. They also encouraged us, which was a gift after a time of pouring out to others.

Please be praying for the missionaries serving among the Manide people. Pray that they would be filled with joy each day (Romans 15:13), and lift up their children and families as well (Psalm 127:1–2).

Ask the Lord to raise up more workers for this harvest field (Matthew 9:37–38), and pray especially as the missionaries prepare to take upcoming language exams—that God would give them understanding and peace (Proverbs 2:6).

- Holland

Bicol Media Team