~ Deaconess Soon-Ja Kim (Cell leader, Chinese Parish)

When I first set my feet in Korea 10 years ago, all I thought about was making money fast and living an affluent life. As I was bent on saving and working as much as I could, I had no peace of mind to look after my health. In the end, when I could no longer control my own body, I went to see a doctor.
"It's the last stage of stomach cancer. You need to have an operation right away."
I could not believe what I was hearing. What would the pounding of the chest and bitter weeping do? I felt as though my dreams were slipping through my fingers. The last stage of stomach cancer usually meant death.
In November 2002, I underwent an operation that lasted seven hours. Afterwards, my body deteriorated to a point that I could not swallow even a sip of water. I also suffered from insomnia on account of the chronic migraine. Without sleeping and eating, I lost much weight; I weighed at one point mere 38 kilograms (about 84 pounds). I looked so haggard and ghastly, so when I would see myself in the mirror I had to quickly turn my face away. I was nothing but a corpse that somehow held fast to life.

In October 2003, I was led by my neighbor to a Miracle Meeting during a Friday All-night Service at Manmin Central Church. As I received Senior Pastor Rev. Dr. Jaerock Lee's prayer, I experienced something truly remarkable. Right before my eyes, a large fireball glittered thrice. At that moment, I began shedding tears uncontrollably, peace settled in my heart, and I became convinced that I had been healed.
Following the Service, I went straight to bed and when I woke up, it was noon. I had slept for 7 hours. I also craved for some food and the intake restored the complexion in my face. I felt like flying and jumped up and down in joy.
I was extremely grateful for the grace of God who saved me. I was at peace whenever I entered the sanctuary and I was happiest when I listened to the messages. I also began a life of prayer for the first time. Whenever I found time, I distributed copies of Manmin News and spread the news of the living God who had healed me.

From 2006 onward, I have been cell leader. In my district were many families who were suffering from financial burdens. My heart went to these brothers and sisters in Christ.
From time to time, I saved money and shared the love of our Lord by providing food, clothing, and essential items to them. If any of them moved, I made sure to visit them at their new homes with small gifts and made sure they felt at home. My heart was at peace only after I handed the sick even 30-40 dollars. Instead of asking newcomers, "Why aren't you coming to church?" I tried to see if there was anything they might need or if they were ill, and I never ceased to pray for them.

Then times of joy came my way. Some brothers and sisters began coming to church, saying "My cell leader is the best!" while those with wounded hearts vowed to open themselves up to the Lord and accepted Him. Reasons for thanksgiving increased for me as they became wheat. Amidst God's grace He poured upon me day after day, my cell tripled and in recognition I received an award in February.

I am embarrassed to have received the award when all I did was to run the race without taking a break in gratitude of His grace for allowing me a new life. I give thanks to God who met me, my Lord who saved me, and the Holy Spirit who has allowed me to be born again.