Life: an adventure, a journey with Jesus!

Telling your story……

I recall Pastor Doug harping on this time and again, a couple of years ago. Do you have a story to tell? Who have you been telling? We all have a story – although yours may not be one you want to share. Does it need a better ending? You know, as well as I, that the answer lies within the Word of God. Jesus is all you need! Ah, you say, I have Jesus. Then I have to ask the five questions…who, what, where, when and why? Maybe you can’t answer all these questions. Let’s look at the excuses we give and what scripture says.

Who –

You think no one will listen, or no one cares. In my case, it’s difficult because of the language limitations. But what does scripture say? It says in Luke, Jesus was teaching the people in the temple courts and preaching the gospel. Jesus is our example. He was sharing his story with the general public and in Mark we read that the good news should be preached to all creation.

What –

Your story is yours and yours alone. My story is mine and belongs to me. It’s the details of our relationship with Jesus Christ. People often refer to it as a testimony. The Bible says in Acts 20:24 However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace. And then in 2 Timothy 1:8 we read, “do not be ashamed to testify about our Lord.”

Where –

Here’s where it gets hairy or scary! You and I think there has to be the perfect time, place and situation. At least, it would be easier that way. Maybe the thought is that it should be done in church! Let’s look at scripture and read what Jesus says. In the book of Mark 16:15 Jesus said to the eleven as they were eating that they should…”go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation.” That doesn’t leave any wiggle room, does it.

When –

Are we asking what time, or what day, or what season? When? Now! 2 Corinthians 6 As God's fellow workers we urge you not to receive God's grace in vain. For he says, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you. I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation. Then in John 9:4 we read, as long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me; night is coming when no one can work. We should not be wasting any time.

Why –

After reading the above passages, I don’t think we need to ask why. We are commanded to. Matthew 28 says therefore go and make disciples of all nations……and teach them to obey everything I have commanded you. In John there is a verse that says If you love me, you will obey what I command. If we want to show our love to God, we will want to be obedient and do as He tells us to do. Finally, we read earlier in the book of Mark that Jesus said the eleven should go … and preach…..to all.