I USED TO LIVE UNDER A BRIDGE
It doesn't seem so long ago, in the summer of 2004 we met Zac Sorongon. He was one of the first street kids we met when we moved to the Philippines. I remember seeing him begging on the streets. I remember he was a pretty mischievous kid. Back then, he lived under a bridge.
Over our years in the Philippines we saw Zac grow up at the Sonshine Center.
Twenty years later, his life is very different. He has graduated from Bible school and he is now one of the pastors of a local church in the Philippines. This summer he is serving as a camp counselor at Camp Sonshine, USA in Silver Spring, MD. Some of you may recall Christine and I used to be Camp Sonshine counselors–we met there. And we also worked with Camp Sonshine Philippines for 10 years.
We ran into Zac in Maryland, he marveled at how far God has taken him. He told me, "Sir Dave, I can't believe I'm here! I used to live under a bridge!"
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You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit--fruit that will last. John 15:16
Zac’s journey is a living testimony that God can take a surrendered life—no matter where it begins—and turn it into something that bears lasting fruit. What started under a bridge has become a life dedicated to preaching the gospel, discipling others, and now pouring into young people as a camp counselor.
This is why investing in the next generation matters. When we say "yes" to reaching and discipling children and youth, we are planting seeds that God can grow into leaders, pastors, and world changers. It reminds us that none of us are disqualified by our past or our circumstances; in God’s hands, every life holds incredible potential.
Zac’s story is just one—but it’s a powerful reminder of what God can do through ordinary obedience and faithful investment in young lives. The next Zac is out there right now, waiting for someone to believe in them, point them to Jesus, and walk with them on the journey. Who knows what God could do with their life?