Luke 15:7- Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance. (English Standard Version)

Ana Martinez, Chef and Voices Against the Grain Devotional Writer

Have we got it wrong? Many of us miss the big picture as we go about our daily lives.  There are many misconceptions like, “I am a Christian. I got it all right and everyone else has it wrong.” Yet the truth is, God is the ONLY one who has it all right.  We can’t begin to understand nor comprehend His great and marvelous ways. We only know the half of it.  It is Christ in us at work cleaning out all the junk and debris, for we all fall short and are in need of mercy and grace. Your life is not your own and if you are living a righteous life, that is wonderful.  However, now you are called to speak the gospel and live it out so others too may be saved. We are not to cast the sinner to the side. We are to set an example, a standard, speak truth and offer unconditional love in hopes to draw them unto the Lord.

So I ask you: Who in your life can you extend a helping hand to? You might be wondering what does that question have to do with the message. It has everything to do with it.  Helping those who are struggling is what it is all about, showing mercy, compassion, and love as Christ has shown for you. It can be as simple as buying a cup of coffee and saying “Jesus loves you.”

-Ana

About Ana Martinez

Ana Martinez was born in Michigan. When she was age 4, her parents Pastor Juan and Deborah Martinez founded the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship in Almont, Mich.  Ana grew up in the church and in a humble, loving Christian home.  Her parent’s faithfulness and commitment to ministry for over 27 years has been a testimony to her.  In her youth she was like the prodigal son.  She knows what it means to walk away from your call and to stray from the Word of God.  Her life experiences have taught her that God’s way and His principles are worth upholding.  She is a God-fearing Christian woman determined to do the will of The Lord.  Her heart’s desire is to reach the lost and win souls for the kingdom of heaven by sharing the Good News, according to Matthew 28:19. Ana truly believes people are hurting and need to know that there is forgiveness through Jesus Christ.  Matthew 11:28, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give ye rest.”

Ana has served on the Missionary Field, and has served in and led praise and worship, web design, children’s ministry and youth ministry.  Ana’s most recent initiative is Georgia Peach Ministry, a non-profit she founded that serves widows and orphans.  Ana is also on the board of the Potter’s House Christian Fellowship. Ana is a private chef and has worked with professional athletes over the past five years. She is also an entrepreneur and is part owner in an interior design business, a chef placement business, and is entering into the food product industry.