CHRISTMAS: HOPE FOR THE HOPELESS
In a small village in Tamil Nadu, India, lives a man who has dedicated his entire life to bringing light to the darkest corners of the human experience. His name is Pastor Mathew, a humble servant of Christ who, alongside his wife and daughters, shares the transformative hope of the Gospel. This hope, found only in Jesus Christ, has changed countless lives—especially those of women and children who have been neglected or marginalized.
Ruth’s Journey: From Hopelessness to Hope
One of the most profound stories from Pastor Mathew’s ministry is that of Ruth, a young girl whose life began in the shadow of despair. When Ruth was only three days old, her parents, desperate for a son, decided to sacrifice her to a “god” in the hope of receiving a male child in their next pregnancy. This heart-wrenching decision stemmed from hopelessness and cultural pressures.
But God had other plans. Pastor Mathew rescued Ruth, giving her not only a second chance at life but also a new identity rooted in hope and love.
I had the privilege of meeting Ruth twice—once in January 2014 and again in August 2014. Today, she is 14 years old, thriving in school, living in a clean home, and surrounded by the warmth of a loving family. Ruth doesn’t just live with hope; she shares it. She understands the transformative power of Christ and speaks of it to others, becoming a beacon of hope in her community.
The Faithful Ministry of Pastor Mathew
For over six decades, Pastor Mathew has served as a vessel of God’s hope in Tamil Nadu. Despite his declining health, he continues to pour himself into his ministry, reaching out to those considered "low caste," neglected, or forgotten by society.
Through his church and orphanage, countless children and families have found not just temporary relief but eternal hope. His life and work embody the truth of Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
The Universal Need for Hope
No matter where you go in the world, the need for hope remains the same. It transcends cultural, economic, and social boundaries. True hope—the kind that brings transformation, salvation, and eternal life—can only be found in Jesus Christ.
Baby Ruth’s life is a testament to this hope. She is a healthy, intelligent teenager today because of the divine hope that Pastor Mathew shared.
An Invitation to Find Hope
Do you feel a sense of hopelessness in any area of your life? Is there a burden weighing heavily on your heart? I want to pray for you. Please feel free to send me a message—it will remain confidential.
This Christmas, let’s reflect on the hope that Jesus brought into the world. Just as Pastor Mathew continues to shine Christ’s light in Tamil Nadu, you too can experience and share the hope of the Gospel in your own life.
If you would like to know more about Pastor Mathew or support his ministry, you can go to the website of Peace Harvest India & Good News Centre for more information.
You can also continue your support with Last Harvest by donating via etransfer to finance@lastharvest.ca
Let’s remember this: Hope is not defined by our circumstances but by the Savior who overcomes them.
May this Christmas season fill your heart with the hope, joy, and peace that only Jesus can provide.
With love and prayers,
Filipe Drumond
