During the past years of ministry, Saturday’s have always been good for Linda and me because our to-do list is complete.  We usually rewarded ourselves with breakfast at a favorite restaurant . Before technology made the Bible available by phone, I took it with me everywhere I went. It’s amazing the opportunities I’ve  had to witness  because of its presence.  One Saturday, Linda couldn’t join me, so I went alone. I ordered breakfast and was settling in for a time of eating and reading when the  server  approached, asking “sir are you a preacher?”  I said that I was, to which she responded “I felt you were because you always have a Bible. Pausing,  she said, “I  was  really hoping you would come today. I need to talk.” Taking a deep breath, she blurted out, “I need to get right with God. I’m single, have two kids, I’m a prostitute, I hate what I’m doing but my job doesn’t pay enough for us to live!” She said all this in just one breath. Afterwards,

relief was written all over her face knowing that she had taken her first step towards freedom.  Continuing, she further stated, “This morning, I’ve decided I’m changing my lifestyle. Will you pray with me?”  Please note, preachers seldom get these awesome opportunities. Gaining my composure, I said “I sure will!” Bowing our heads, we began to pray. With my eyes closed, I could hear a woman, between sobs, praying a sinner’s prayer,  accompanied by dead silence throughout the restaurant. I opened my eyes and saw the young lady on her knees. The restaurant was filled with customers who had reverently stopped what they were doing to show respect. When she stood, it was obvious God had done a work in her life! With humble gratitude, she thanked me and then asked for directions to our church, stating she would be there Sunday morning.

We should  never underestimate the diverse ways God uses when we commit it to Him.  With a single touch, He will change a  restaurant  into  a place of worship  and a dining table into an altar!

The next morning, she and her children were among the first to arrive at the church.  Within  a few weeks she was baptized and became a member of our fellowship. From that time, forward she never looked back.

In reflection, I probably could write an entire book on “living an overcoming life” with her as the only character. I would call it “The Committed Life.” The first chapter would be named “The Power of a Made-Up Mind.” Without a doubt, the first steps of our Christ-walk are the most crucial we will ever take.  For those who are reading this, especially if you are a new believer, please take note.  Until you’re determined to make it, you won’t! Psalm 37:5 succinctly offers two words we must hang onto as if our life depended on them: Commit and trust! Both of them  command action and are totally dependent on how we individually place them into effect.    

Several months passed and we realized this season of our life was closing and we would soon be moving to another assignment.  Shortly afterwards, things fell into place (Romans 8:28), and within a few weeks we accepted a church in East Texas. It is never easy to leave people you’ve grown to love and respect however, God always knows best. For several months, we stayed in touch, but time and distance took its toll and our time there became a fond memory and is to this day. Two years had passed, and we were vacationing in California.  It was Wednesday and we were close to our previous church, so we decided to join them for mid-week service. We pulled onto the church parking lot and made our way into the sanctuary. The service had not started so people were still moving freely in the isles. At the front of the building stood our dear friend. Our eyes meeting at the exact time, she began pressing towards us.  Embracing us with tears and joy, she spoke four words I will never forget, “I made it pastor!“   She continued saying, “after that morning I never looked back!” and further stated how God had blessed her with a wonderful job and she was actually involved in assisting wherever needed. We left church that evening with our spiritual cup overflowing and with a greater understanding that all God needs from us is our obedience and availability, and He will do the rest.

Someday, when this life is over and we’re standing in the presence of God, and the heavenly host, I’m sure I will see her again!  When I do, I will cry aloud to God, exclaiming thank you for the wonderful opportunity you extended me to lead her to you! Then I believe all of heavens host will join me in singing Hallelujah and amen!  Luke 15:10, “In the same way I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents, [that is who changes his inner self-his old way of thinking, regrets past sin, lives his life in a way that proves repentance;  and seeks God purpose for us life].”