your stories

We all have eavesdropped on public conversations at some time. But have you considered the ripple effect of the gospel when preached earnestly?

One day I was visiting a resident at an assisted living facility. Numerous residents were out enjoying the California sun, including an older gentleman I had approached a couple of times before to speak of Jesus. He’d been brought up in a church but had chucked it all as “foolish.” His hardened heart softened mine. I reminded him of how much God loved him to send His only begotten Son to take the wages for our sin, which was death. He scoffed and turned away as before.

I turned and saw a charming petite woman in a wheelchair with oxygen. I greeted her and asked if she knew Jesus. “No!” she exclaimed. “I have waited all my life for someone to ask me. I heard you telling this man.” It turned out that Virginia was Jewish and apparently no one who knew the truth about Jesus thought she would listen. I told her about her Messiah, the Jewish King and Great High Priest and how He had opened the Gates of Heaven again through His atoning sacrifice. She heard! And received joyfully. I began to cry hallelujahs, and Virginia chimed in enthusiastically.

Just then, a workman, maybe 40 or 50, came over and asked, “What are all the hallelujahs about?” I said, “Virginia is Jewish and has just met and received Jesus as her Savior!” The man, a believer, echoed, “Hallelujah!” And we all three rejoiced with the angels in heaven for this one precious soul! I am hoping the lost man behind us also heard the call to life with new ears, hearing the confession of this beautiful Jewish woman professing her faith. Words are powerful. “Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.” Praise His name. Sound the shofar for all to hear!

Sarah

Southern California