Jestham Shares: A Touching Story of a Hopeful Becak Driver

Medan City—(02/28/25) What happens when a nearly hopeless becak driver is suddenly asked to choose between cash or a free shopping spree? The answer isn’t just about the prize—it’s about an unexpected blessing from the Ultimate Provider.

That afternoon, Jesica Thamrin began her mission of kindness in an unusual way. Under the scorching sun, she spotted an elderly man sitting listlessly in his worn-out becak. Without hesitation, Jestham approached him and invited him to play a simple game: choosing a prize coupon. With renewed hope, the man picked one—and luck was on his side. He won a shopping voucher at a nearby wholesaler. A broad smile lit up his face, though confusion lingered in his eyes.

After shopping, they shared a heartfelt conversation. The man opened up about his life’s struggles—how he battled scarcity daily, from rice running out too soon to his rickety becak frequently breaking down. "Now, I’m just grateful for whatever food we have," he said resignedly. The becak wasn’t even his; it was borrowed from his brother-in-law. Even repairing its faulty engine was beyond his means. "Fixing it would cost nearly Rp800,000," he sighed.

Yet, beneath the hardship, he clung to a grand hope: seeing his children grow into successful, virtuous adults. "I just want them to fear God, respect their elders, and never rebel," he said, eyes glistening. To him, education and morals were the greatest legacy he could leave, despite his material limitations. Moved by his sincerity, Jestham decided to give extra assistance so he could repair his becak and meet other needs.

As he received the help, the man trembled with emotion. "This is the answer to my prayers," he whispered. For the past month, he had tirelessly prayed for divine intervention. "God’s timing is always perfect," he said gratefully. He admitted feeling puzzled when asked to pick a coupon earlier, but now he saw it as part of God’s beautiful plan.

The man’s life journey mirrored resilience. Though sometimes smooth, it often "stalled" like his becak—yet he never gave up. "We can’t change circumstances, but we can accept them with patience," he wisely remarked. His message to his family was simple: Keep striving and trust that God never sleeps.

Before parting, Jestham encouraged him, "Stay strong, Sir. The journey may be hard, but believe—God has arranged everything." The man nodded tearfully, showering Jestham with heartfelt prayers. Kindness isn’t about the amount but the sincerity behind it—and how hope can bloom even in the most broken-down becak. God has His own way of comforting His steadfast servants.