Love Where You Live, Part 3
Who knew Ben and I would have so much fun teaching together!? We couldn’t have seen this reality years ago, but with what God has done in each of us individually, and in our marriage, we have delighted in working together, praying together, studying Scripture, and using our unique gifts to share this series with you.
This week, the focus is on you and your story!
We’ve heard from many of you in the lobby at church, through texts and emails, how you are telling your story! Let me leave you with one…one that is proof that it doesn’t take eloquent speech or years of being a Christian to share your story…
The 10:30 service has begun. I’ve spoken once and am getting my heart and soul and mind ready to go again. The kids have made it to church as they are taking the train these days while Ben and I are co-teach. They’re to the right of me. Ben to the left.
Someone on our host team taps me during the singing and tells me someone is here because of us. I look up to see this mom and her son. I recognized him, but not her. Our kids go to school together and we as moms have only communicated through texts - one being how we’d love to have them come to church! They did! And they were standing by us on the FRONT ROW! Ben moved. We slid down and made room! I greeted her as the music continued. I told her we’d be happy to move a few rows back if she’d be more comfortable. They were happy to be right there with us. Okay! In that moment, two thoughts collided:
Is there anything I am about to share on stage that wouldn’t connect with our friends on the front row?
AND
God, how can this be…we make a simple invite with new friends and they take on courage and come?
The message was the same, much about Jesus being alive and using those who believe in Him to continue His mission. My heart was more full because of our friends being present. In my peripheral, God gave me the constant reminder through the message of why we tell our stories!
I could preach again right now! But let me hear from you? Who have you told your story to recently? How can I pray for you as you get the courage to tell yours?