Simple Obedience

The question is not if I’m called, but to whom and to where I’m called.

- a CATC mantra

Some of us have felt the frustration of the airlines losing our luggage. Whether on vacation or a business trip, this can be a major setback and leave us annoyed at best. But how many of us know what it’s like when an airline loses your luggage upon landing in an unfamiliar country across the world where you plan to be living for several months?

Statistics from 2019 show that 1,095,299 international students from 200 countries came to the United States to receive higher education. The world is converging in DFW. That is why Geoffrey Bertram, CATC’s Minister of Mobilization, is constantly looking for ways to connect our people with mission moments here in our community. When Geoffrey sent out an email with the opportunity to pick up international students from the airport, Garrett Spegar responded.  

“Jesus calls us to love others and serve others. The church sent out a request. It seemed like this was a good way for me to live my faith and help and serve,” he explained. Garrett took the opportunity to offer a hearty Texas welcome to two international students from India as they landed at DFW Airport. His job was to simply transport the students and their belongings to the University of Texas at Arlington.  

The plan took a turn when the airline lost one of the student's luggage. Moved by compassion, Garrett took this student to the store and bought him some basic groceries, toiletries, and clothes to last him until he received his luggage. He also communicated with the airline to make sure the student’s bags were delivered to him.

Garrett didn’t have to move to another country to have a global impact. He was simply obedient to the call to show kindness right here in his state. He was open to sharing his time and money to make the entry into the United States a little less intimidating for two students who needed some warm hospitality.

“Then the righteous will answer him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers,[f] you did it to me.’” 

- Matthew 25:37-40