This week, ahead of all our responsibilities here at 1558, our family needed us. I’m so thankful for that flexibility (and for your grace as our readers)!
Weeks like this, where you begin by celebrating life and end by discussing its brevity, lead to much thought, prayer, and reflection. As I processed the week, a very special memory occurred to me: the day my Dad accepted Christ as his Savior.
I imagine most children from Christian families don’t get to experience this with their parents. I could be wrong, though. I’ve heard it said that faith is when something real becomes real to you personally. That’s what this day was for my Dad. He knew of the Lord, but he hadn’t experienced His saving grace. That part wasn’t real to him—not yet, that is.
We attended a small church on the outskirts of town, and as a nine-year-old girl, I don’t remember the specific message from that service. However, I genuinely believe God was reaching out to someone that day.
Often when I am teaching, children especially, I refer to their moment of salvation as a personal “road to Damascus” experience. Maybe you remember that in your own life? The minute that no matter how things were before, the Lord speaks, you drop to your knees in surrender, and nothing is ever the same again. PRAISE THE LORD!
I can only imagine how the pew-lined aisles felt for Dad—a seemingly endless stretch, much like that dirt road Paul traveled, leading us to the minister at the back doors of the church. With Mom gently guiding us, I can still remember our little caravan coming to a sudden stop. As I peeked over shoulders, my heart rejoiced at the sight of my Dad on bended knee, tears in his eyes.
Isn’t that a glorious truth, Believer? Whosoever. Aren’t you thankful? I am. Listen to the certainty – shall be saved. Not might, or may be, or could, but SHALL. By now, you know I’m a fan of the Websters 1828 Dictionary. Mr. Noah Webster defines shall, like this, “… in the first person, shall simply foretells or declares what will take place”. How about that? The wording provides a declaration of the promise of salvation that will take place after we call upon Him.
Do you remember your “road to Damascus” moment, Beloved? Praise God for it today. If you haven’t had one… what are you waiting for? Today is the day of salvation! (2 Corinthians 6:2)
