Roll the Stone, He'll Do the Miracle - Bayside Church

Main message: Jesus invites ordinary people to help roll away the stones that block new life; through surrender, sacrifice and creativity we can join him in bringing resurrection-like hope to vulnerable children. Edgar illustrated this with three “stone-rolling” moments in his life and the way World Vision’s Chosen sponsorship model renews children, families and communities.

Key points:

• The Lazarus story (John 11:38–44) models that God performs miracles but often invites people to remove barriers and participate.
• Personal conversion: a mentor (Steve) and a worship song led Edgar to surrender his life to Christ — a first stone-rolling moment.
• Career sacrifice: Edgar wrestled with fear before leaving a comfortable corporate leadership role to join World Vision, seeing himself like Nehemiah called to pray, persevere and sacrifice.
• Innovation in ministry: “Chosen” flips traditional child sponsorship so children choose sponsors; this revitalized the program and strengthens trust, family stability, local church partnership and community outcomes.
• Practical impact and invitation: sponsorship (noted at $39/month) multiplies benefits beyond one child to families and communities; Bayside’s previous choosing event (2,200 sponsors) and personal stories (e.g., Wilmer from Guatemala) were offered as evidence and encouragement to participate.

Scriptures mentioned: John 11:38-44, Matthew 18:3, Matthew 19:14, Nehemiah (referenced)