Milton Coronado was in gangs during high school. He eventually left the gangs, but was soon with another crowd that led him into graffiti and vandalism. Graffiti was Milton's world for many years. "I was chased by other 'taggers,' youth who were also involved in this world, and chased by dogs, police officers, homeless people, and even bullets. It is only by the mercy and grace of God that I am alive and well today," he says.
After a family tragedy Milton surrendered his life to God and left spray can art. Milton believes, "If you use the talents God has given you for self-pleasure, and you're committing crime and hurting someone else, God wants you to stop." He adds, "With love, He will guide you to use [your talent] for the task He has called you to finish—to tell others about Him."
Several years later Milton, and Pastors Manny Cruz and Josh Murillo, formed a street art ministry. They clean up graffiti and, if allowed, paint a mural with a positive Christian message in its place. Milton has witnessed people of all ages open their hearts to accept Jesus through the ministry. He says, "How great a feeling it is to do something you love for soul-saving, working together with the Holy Spirit."
Recently Hispanic youth leaders in Grand Rapids, Michigan, invited Milton to speak for an area youth event. There, Milton shared his testimony with the youth and invited them to participate in an outreach project. The next day a few youth, parents, and pastors gathered, ready to paint. They asked God to bless the project, and minutes later Milton painted the first outline of the message. Onlookers soon gathered to watch, as youth, seniors, and pastors painted and distributed information about the upcoming Week of Prayer. Milton says "God was in control."
The group finished around 3 p.m and then huddled for prayer. Afterward one of the pastors, Robert Amaya, introduced Milton to a young man. Tearfully the young man told how he tried to kill himself once, but failed. Milton said, "As he was walking by, he noticed a group of young people smiling and appearing to be happy, and believed the message on the wall, that read, 'Jesus: your new awakening,' was for him." He accepted their offer to pray with him.
The next day Milton learned the young man had planned to attempt suicide again the previous night, but God intervened to save him. The young man is now receiving Bible studies, and desires that true happiness received only through Jesus.
Milton encourages youth to get involved in a ministry. He suggests you first ask yourself what you really love to do. Secondly, ask God how you can use your desire or talent to serve Him better. And finally, do it to the fullest.
Diane Thurber is the assistant communication director for the Lake Union Conference. This story was shared by Milton Coronado, 27, a member of the Hinsdale (Illinois) Fil-Am Church. Anyone interested in street art ministry may contact Milton at mcrowned@yahoo.com.
