A Legacy of Love
There is an unlikely paradox that coexists in our lives, a tension that is both painful and beautiful. Amor ágape, Jesus’ example of love through sacrifice draws us into this paradox. A sacrificial love beckoning for more; more than we think we are able to give and unable to provide in our own strength. In the midst of our own confusion, pain and sorrow, however, it almost feels impossible to give more of ourselves.
Yet for those who live in Christ, it means living a life surrendered to His Spirit, who is at work on our behalf to give us strength to press on. It is this agape love that changes the hearts of men, who in turn answer a call and accept a path that offers no guarantees, but only an invitation: Come. Follow Me.
For over 35 years, the seeds of faithful discipleship were planted in unlikely places and have produced the fruit of many disciples; making up the beautiful body of a church in South Texas called Iglesia Misionera Cristo Vive. After many years of hosting church services in homes, outdoor spaces, and tire shops, God miraculously provided an abandoned building in 2020. This all led to the day when the beloved Rev. Hugo Moya tragically passed away a year later while working on the roof of the soon-to-be church.
The invitation to “Come. Follow me” given to Pastor Hugo and Eunice, his wife, did not promise recognition, resources or security. The path they took was rarely well lit or paved. During the worst years of cartel violence across the border, most people stopped crossing the border into Mexico. But the Moyas continued to minister to immigrants, fellow pastors, and plant churches. Over the years, a ministry focus has been on providing relief to migrants waiting in limbo in detention centers or camps, and offering a dignified welcome to the newly arrived.
Iglesia Misionera Cristo Vive continues to support those who come to the U.S. looking for refuge. It is not easy but the love of Christ compels them. Along with their ministry partner, Border Perspective, the church sees the national climate of animosity toward immigrants as an opportunity for Christians to embody Jesus’ love for the stranger. Hugo’s challenging words still ring true for us today:
“Jesus first came near to a people who were suffering, who had been exiled from the people of Israel,” he said. “All the sick, all who had sinned, all who had dysfunctional lives. And Jesus came close to them. So, we teach in the church that each member has the same spirit Jesus had to be able to draw near to these other people.”
Through the tragedy, the Moyas and the church have experienced the kind of revival and renewal that only comes from a deep place of surrender; the type of surrender that enables them to give more even when they are empty. It is astounding to see them in this unlikely place of pain and beauty. Amidst all sorrow you can hear them say, “God is good.'' In their dependence and surrender to the Lord, they demonstrate such love, amor ágape, that leads themselves and others to transformation.
Iglesia Misionera Cristo Vive opened its doors on April 6th, 2024 with a ribbon cutting ceremony and an evening praise and worship service. On April 7th, celebrations continued as the church hosted their first Sunday Service, after being approved for a final inspection earlier that week. It is humbling to see how God has helped them reach this point. The completion of restoring the once abandoned and condemned building is the answer to many, many years of prayer. It is a miracle. As the church continues to navigate the work ahead, God’s sovereignty is a steady rock that gives them peace.
We welcome all who read this to be a part of this legacy and seek an answer to our second invitation. An invitation that will seem almost playful: Come, See.
