Earlier this year, I felt drained and began to wonder why I was in the field of service that I am.

In April, I was given the opportunity to attend the R.C. Buckner Founder’s Day luncheon. During the program, I heard Karen Bullock, the Buckner historian, say that there are people from different parts of the world working for Buckner who feel that this is the Lord’s will. At that moment, I almost felt that God touch my shoulder and whisper, “Remember?”

“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7

In 1992, I was in the Philippines on the fast track to a management position. I gave my all to my work. Everything I had wanted and worked for was within my reach, but I felt unfulfilled. I found myself in church asking God to use me to help others and to guide me to have a sense of peace and fulfillment.

Romans 8:27 says that the One who searches our hearts knows what the Spirit has in mind and that the Spirit intercedes for God’s people the way God wants him to.

Fast-forward 19 years and I am married, have two sons and work with Buckner in the Services to At-Risk Youth (STAR) program. I work with youth and families who are in personal crisis.

It gives me a sense of fulfillment when I can help them find hope and when the youth and/or family decides to change their life. My job pushes me to see the best traits and strengths in people and to help them recognize the lessons learned in their life situations so that they can move forward. My job allows me to be a better person and a better mother to my children. I think God wants us all to be reminded why we are here and that we have a purpose in his plan.

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10

Aurelia Samonte serves as a STAR caseworker for Buckner Children and Family Services in Beaumont. She has been with Buckner since 2006.

Prayers of the Week:
-God, whatever our vocation, help us to do our work for your glory.
-God, be with our law enforcement officers, firefighters and military, that they may be kept safe in dangerous and emotionally taxing work.

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If you are interested in submitting a devotional for Buckner Faith Focus, please e-mail lhollon@buckner.org.

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