A Bright Light at Kohl’s
“In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)
A middle-aged couple was simply holding hands as they shopped at Kohl’s on a blistering hot day last August. That expression of affection so touched an older woman passing by she couldn’t help but tell them so. “It is wonderful to see such sweetness in love at your age.” Some in their fifties would have felt stung at such a remark, but not these two. Her delight was so genuine they ended up visiting with her for an hour right there in the store.
Not many days later, DeAnna stopped by Evergreen Bible Church and she told me about her encounter with this wonderful couple. She couldn’t remember their names, only that they attended EBC and had a lot of kids. She was a naturally gregarious person, but it was clear she was being drawn not only to this dear couple, but to God. However, I didn’t see her again until she visited a worship service in December. She was again deeply affected, particularly by the Christmas choir, and evidenced a desire to know God better.
Nevertheless, I didn’t see her for several months until she called last month. My joy at hearing from her again was quickly sobered. She was dying, she said, and afraid, wondering if someone would come talk and pray with her. We sat at her small dining table, with the hospital bed parked nearby, and I explained why I believe in Jesus Christ as he is revealed in the Bible. The good news shined in its simplicity. There are no rites to perform, no deeds to do. We need only embrace the gift the Savior purchased on the cross. DeAnna believed. A month later, on Mother’s Day, she greeted her Savior face to face.
There is more to the story, of course. There always is. But I am in awe of the God whose glory is so powerful that one tiny beam reflected in the interlocked hands of a middle-aged couple can bring a soul lost in darkness into the light of eternal life.
Pastor Toby
Categories: Evergreen Connection