What was your best gift ever? My top three: * Spirograph changed my life. * White go go boots with scandalous 2" heels. * Box of creative goodness- construction paper, scissors, glue, finger paint, clay, and my personal favorite…glitter. The only way the glitter disaster could have been messier would have been to give the five kids espresso or maybe stray kittens.
Years later I got the all-time best gift from my mom.
After our son, Michael was born I remember feeling restless. We were attending church with our new baby, had jobs we loved, but something was missing. A pastor invited me to experience the twenty-eight day “Ten Brave Christians” challenge. Reluctantly, I said yes. As I started waking early to read the bible and write in a journal, something amazing happened. I felt my prayers were connecting to God. Early one morning I prayed a primitive prayer, “Jesus, I don’t know much about you, but if you’re real would you come into my life?” And He did.
There were volumes I wanted to learn about my new faith. Even though I didn’t have all the answers, and still don’t, I loved knowing I would spend eternity in Heaven.
So, back to my mom. Several years later I began to wonder where she stood with her faith. Mom was an extravagantly generous person, hilarious, and full of love. We could talk about most anything, but had never discussed our faith. I love the simplicity of Romans 10:9, “that if you confess with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” I had to know. I sat down and wrote her a letter.
Sharing faith with people who know everything about you can be uncomfortable, but every awkward moment is worth it.
I still have the letter she sent back to me. Mom told me how much she loved me. Then she talked about her Christian faith, and assured me she was good with the Lord.
Late one night several months later we got the call. There was no warning, only the shocking news Mom had died. Losing her was the most crushing season I’ve ever experienced. Knowing with confidence she will be there one day when I get to Heaven…incomparable.
Maybe you’re going through a chaotic time right now. If so, you might have more questions about God than answers. You’re not alone. Would you consider asking Jesus in? You don’t need a big crowd or the Hallelujah Chorus playing in the background, just a simple prayer. He’s the greatest gift you’ll ever know.
Here is an incredible place to find out more.