From Vulnerability to Vitality: Dominic's Journey in the Body of Christ by Mike Elkins

This is the story we included in our intern booklet of one of our employees on the Shine Program's Social Work Team. 

It was written by Mike Elkins, our National Director of His Voice Global in Uganda, with Dominic's permission. It was also printed in the monthly His Voice Global Newsletter. You can sign up here to receive monthly newsletters from the organization we work with. 

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In a small village in Uganda, Dominic’s life took a devastating turn. Once a skilled welder providing for his family, he lost his left arm in a tragic explosion while disposing of a bomb found in his home. In a moment, he lost his trade, his ability to provide, and shortly after, his wife left, overwhelmed by the weight of their circumstances. 

Dominic was plunged into deep vulnerability—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. 

He believed the lie that he no longer had value or purpose.

 

But God wasn’t finished with Dominic.

 

When Shine met Dominic, they saw more than just a man in crisis—they saw someone made in the image of God. The first step was providing relief: food, clean water, shelter, and urgent medical care. These small but vital actions began to restore Dominic’s dignity and renew his hope.

 

With time, Dominic received malaria treatment, a prosthetic arm, and physical therapy. These tangible supports were paired with something even deeper: community, inclusion, and purpose. As he healed, Dominic began visiting other participants in the Shine program—offering encouragement, prayer, and practical help. He even learned to ride a motorcycle with one arm so he could reach homes farther away.

 

Take a minute to read 1 Corinthains 12:12-26.

 

Dominic’s story beautifully reflects the truth of 1 Corinthians 12:22: 

“On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable.”

Once seen—and perhaps even seeing himself—as “weaker,” Dominic has become a vital, irreplaceable part of the Shine community and the body of Christ. His empathy, experience, and resilience make him uniquely equipped to minister to others facing similar challenges.

 

Today, Dominic is no longer dependent on food aid—he asked to have his portion redirected to someone more in need. He’s not just surviving; he’s thriving, serving as Shine’s primary medical advocate and helping others rise from despair to hope. His life is a living testimony: in God’s Kingdom, no one is disposable. 

Every member matters. 

And those who once seemed weak? 

They are often the strongest among us.

 

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Question: Who in your community might be feeling like they are the "weaker" part of the body? How might you extend a hand of support and encouragement to them?

Prayer Guide: Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Dominic and the reminder that every member of the body of Christ is indispensable. Help us see and value each person as You do. Guide us in extending love, support, and empowerment to those who feel vulnerable. May we be instruments of Your grace, lifting others up and recognizing the indispensable role they play in Your kingdom. In Jesus' Name, Amen. 

Challenge this week: In what ways can you help create a more inclusive and supportive environment where everyone's gifts and stories are valued? 

Songs of the week: No One Ever Cared for Me Like Jesus by Steffany Gretzinger

                             You Make Everything Beautiful by For King and Country 

Book Suggestion: "Building a Resilient Life: How Adversity Awakens Strength, Hope,

                            and Meaning" by Rebekah Lyons

Quote by Elisabeth Elliot:

"Of one thing I am perfectly sure: God's story never ends with ashes."

from her book: These Strange Ashes