Your personal testimony could make all the difference

Today’s Reading: John 10:40-42 (NIV)

40 Then Jesus went back across the Jordan to the place where John had been baptizing in the early days. Here He stayed 41 and many people came to Him. They said, ‘Though John never performed a miraculous sign, all that John said about this man was true.’ 42 And in that place many believed in Jesus.

Good morning!

One chilly fall weekend, my junior high youth group attended a lay witness mission event just across the river at a neighboring United Methodist Church. I remember the cold night air, and the genuine warmth of this congregation. There were a lot of people there, ranging in age from tiny tots to seniors. We attended small group meetings all day long, gathering together in the sanctuary to worship as one and witness to the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The pastor asked anyone who was willing to come forward and speak. I watched the tears roll across the faces of my friends and sponsors, as young and old alike went forward to share their personal faith story with the entire congregation. Their sincerity and conviction of heart lifted them off the pew and carried them to the front of the sanctuary, where they stood trembling and shaking before the crowd. The time of testimony continued until every person who felt compelled to speak had an opportunity to do so. There was no coercion, no one forced another to get up and talk. It was simply a move of the Holy Spirit and there was no doubt that the Spirit was working on every heart in that room.

It was close to midnight when the worship service came to a close. I remembered not wanting to leave. Something tangible and real had happened that night. I can still see their faces as clearly as if it happened yesterday. While many of these congregants remain nameless to me today, God knows who they are. As they shared their testimony of faith, their names were written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. I know I will worship together with them one day soon in the eternal presence of our Savior, Jesus Christ.

John stood by the river and commanded the people to repent of their sins, be baptized with water, and watch for the One who would come and baptize them with the power of the Holy Spirit. When John instructed the people to follow Jesus Christ, many listened and obeyed. John was just one man, and yet, his testimony of the coming Messiah opened the door for many to place their faith in Jesus. His testimony made all the difference. Do you realize that your personal testimony could make an eternal difference in the life of another human heart? Take every opportunity to share your faith whenever you can, however you can, and with whatever means you have available to you. Do not hesitate to tell others about what Jesus Christ has done for you. Your personal testimony could make all the difference.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

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