HOW GOD USED A CHILD
by Valrey Francis
Maran Walters Jr. is a student at William A. Kirlew Junior Academy in Miami Gardens, Florida. His parents made sacrifices to send him to Seventh-day Adventist church schools since pre-kindergarten because they are pleased with the quality education our schools offer.
Maran’s father, Maran Walters Sr., was recently interviewed for a more insightful understanding of his conversion story. The interview revealed that Mr. Walters’ family members belong to the Baptist church. Years ago, he had a friend who occasionally invited him to attend the Seventh-day Adventist church. However, he did not feel the desire to become a Seventh-day Adventist.
His son, Maran Jr., attended several week of prayer services at the school. He always wanted to get baptized, but the answer was always, “No, you are too young.” One Sabbath, Maran Sr. visited Maranatha Church, and an altar call was made at the end of the sermon. Maran Sr. mentioned that his son asked him to go to the altar with him, but he refused to go.
During another visit to Maranatha Church, another appeal was made. Sure enough, Maran Jr. wanted to go to the altar. He once more asked his dad to join him. Maran Sr. said, this time, he felt the Holy Spirit tugging on his heart, and he accompanied his son to the altar.
Maran Sr. submitted his name for baptism, and soon he was enrolled in a baptismal class. A few weeks later, he was baptized with prayers that his son and wife will also soon be baptized.
God calls little children into ministry, and the prayer at William A. Kirlew Junior Academy is that more students will lead their parents to Jesus. The teachers strive to model Christ to the students, and know that God will always use children for His glory and for the furtherance of His kingdom.