Barbara Fletcher, January 16-17

Sometimes following God’s call takes us to unexpected places. In fact, I think that’s true most of the time. If someone had told me five years ago, much less 25 years ago, that I would lead a team to establish a free medical clinic in a Salem Alliance property on Broadway, I would not have believed it. It would have sounded absurd. How in the world would I do that? But, that’s what I get to do, and I thank God. I’ve certainly had plenty of days when it has felt too difficult, but it has been a ride I’ve loved and wouldn’t trade.

Let me update you on the clinic. We’re open two full days a month at our interim headquarters, 3850 Portland Road, as well as one morning a month at our satellite location, Trinity Covenant Church in South Salem. This represents a 60% increase over the clinic’s hours in September, and it is a big step toward our expansion goals. We’re seeing over 150 patients monthly. That number will continue to grow as we gradually add more clinic days.

While helping people physically is wonderful, the best part for me is what is happening spiritually. Historically, in five years of operation at Walker Middle School, seventeen patients came to Christ. However, since the clinic opened on Portland Road in October, ten patients have come to Christ and seven have recommitted their lives to Him. Yes, patients are being treated for physical problems at the clinic. But God is doing much more than that. He is healing their souls for all eternity!

I’m so glad I accepted the “too difficult call” to lead our clinic team! So I ask you, what is God asking you to do in this season of your life? Does it feel too difficult? If so, join the club! There are people all around you at Salem Alliance serving in ways that feel too difficult. But in the midst of those difficult places, we get to experience God. We get to see the Living God change lives and win souls. It’s an amazing ride!