“Following Jesus in Portugal,” Friend, June 2023, 16–17.
Following Jesus in Portugal
Meet Matilde!
About Matilde
Age: 5
From: Lisbon Region, Portugal
Language: Portuguese
Family: Matilde, Mom, Dad, and a little brother and sister
Goals and dreams: To be a doctor
How Matilde Follows Jesus
One day, Matilde’s mom told her the ward wanted to gather toys. The toys were for children who had to leave their own country quickly. Matilde’s mom asked if she had any soft toys to share with them. The toys would help them feel less scared on their journey.
At first Matilde didn’t want to share her toys. But then she thought about how happy the children would feel to get a toy. She thought about how Jesus Christ helped others. So the next day, she helped pick out some stuffed animals to share. She was happy in her heart because she could help the children feel better. She loves to follow Jesus!
Matilde’s Favorites
Place: The beach
Story about Jesus: His birth
Fruit: Pears
Color: Pink
Subject in School: Art
Illustrations by Anna Daviscourt