Her Pain was Transformed into Hope

After several days in Houston, our North America regional team saw God show up in incredible ways as they went out to share Jesus in the scene. Specifically on Tuesday, they visited Avant Garden, a popular bar and restaurant typically known for its packed-out poetry and open mic nights.

This particular evening was quieter than normal, but the Holy Spirit was fully present and moving through the team as they engaged with others in the bar.

Both Filipe, the leader of the team, and Jocelyn, who has been helping to lead the Steiger MVMT locally in Houston, performed many songs throughout the evening. Even though it was only Jocelyn’s second open mic night performance ever, she boldly shared her personal story and clearly presented the message of the gospel, after singing one of her own songs, “Built to Last.”

“It’s been incredible getting to share my testimony through music,” Jocelyn shared. “Originally when I wrote my song ‘Built to Last,’ it came from a place of deep pain and sadness. But God has since radically redeemed my story, so much so that I can’t sing the song's original lyrics! The new lyrics of the song now echo the strength God has given me and the ways He has demonstrated His love even through difficulty.”

Filipe and Jocelyn’s performances created opportunities for more conversations to happen throughout the rest of the evening, and the team was able to connect with many talented artists and musicians! They even got to pray for a musician from Brazil who connected with Filipe.

“Continue praying for us as we near our last few days in Houston!” asked Allison. “Soon we will have a picnic-style outreach event in the park with creative evangelism tools, music and poetry. Our heart for Houston has been to encourage those who have been involved in the Houston MVMT, develop a deeper sense of family and inspire many to use their art to lift up the cross!”