Ruth and her husband were very active in their home church. She loved to give Bible studies, while her husband was an elder and loved to preach. They already had two children, but decided to adopt three more. They owned a prosperous business—until personal and financial struggles hit. After making some wrong decisions, Ruth’s husband left her with the responsibility of raising their children on her own. Devastated, Ruth decided to take her life. But during this time, she met a lady who helped her through her depression. As an Adventist pastor also supported her throughout her crisis, Ruth decided to move back to her home and her church. Here she continued to receive support from church members until she overcame what she describes as the hardest experience of her life.
For the past ten years, Ruth has suffered from insomnia and severe migraines. She was taking many medications for her illnesses, but saw no results—so she started seeking alternative treatments. Providentially, she visited Villa de Leyva SDA Church and met our family. She was happy to hear about our ministry and, after praying over her urgent need to enroll in a health program, came to Loma Linda Campestre for a month. Having arrived just before the COVID-19 restrictions began in Colombia, Ruth relates, “I could not possibly have stayed home by myself due to my fear of being secluded. God brought me here right on time.”
It is now Ruth’s fourth week of her lifestyle session. She loves the peaceful environment and tranquil country living. Hydrotherapy treatments and massages soothe and refresh, while daily walks keep her motivated. She enjoys the fresh air and sunshine while walking on the trails. Morning and evening devotionals uplift her spirit. And, most of all, she has truly experienced peaceful time alone with God.
As we have encouraged her to change to a simple vegan diet, she is considering eliminating meat. She is also thinking about moving out of the city. Her favorite promise is found in Jeremiah 33:3, “Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” Truly, God does wonderful things for those who want to hear His counsel and put it into practice.
*An alumni project supported through Hartland’s “Lord, Send Me” program