A Waldensian Student notices a missing classmate, leading to a life‑saving friendship, Bible studies, and a renewed walk with Jesus for a young man battling deep depression—showing how quiet compassion can change a life for eternity.
What happens when you notice someone’s missing?
That’s what happened when Waldensian Student Alex* realized he hadn’t seen his classmate Dan in a while.
“I haven’t seen Dan for over a month,” Alex told his wife, Maya. “He just stopped coming to class. I hope he’s OK.”
When Dan finally returned, Alex was relieved. After class, Dan caught his eye and asked, “Can we talk?”
Dan opened up about his deep depression—so bad that he’d tried to end his life three times. Since childhood, he’d struggled with overwhelming responsibility, loneliness, and hopelessness.
Alex listened. He wanted to share the hope he had found in Jesus but sensed the need to move gently and prayerfully.
That evening, he told Maya what Dan had shared. She said, “You have to tell him he’s loved—truly loved. What if he tries to end his life again? Don’t wait!”
Alex agreed. He invited Dan over, and soon the two were meeting every Sabbath to study the Bible. After a while, Dan asked Alex whether he wanted to study with a bigger group at church. He said he’d love to.
One afternoon, Dan said quietly, “You know, Alex—you saved my life. I’ve met Jesus, and I want to follow Him.”
Today, Dan lives in another country in the region, but he and Alex stay in touch and continue to study God’s Word together.
Through Alex’s care and courage to share his faith, Dan’s life was saved—first from despair, and then for eternity.
Please pray for Alex and other Waldensian Students who study in veiled territories around the world.
*Names have been changed
Waldensian Students are Seventh-day Adventist students who study in secular universities in areas of the world where missionaries can’t serve. Following Christ’s example of outreach, their goal is to reach others for Jesus.
Laurie Falvo
Adventist Mission.
