Pastor’s Pen—April 2016
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The Gospel of John has become one of my favorite books of the Bible. I’m not sure that I can put my finger on why, but I like the way the stories about Jesus are woven together to bring Jesus’ disciples, then and now, to understand who he is and from where he comes. In reading John, I’ve become acutely aware of how the people with whom Jesus interacts are willing to tell others about him. All of this has led me to understand the importance of telling our stories of faith. Whether it’s the Samaritan woman at the well, or the story of the blind man in John 9, both people become powerful witnesses to others about this man Jesus.
When you read the story from John 9:1-41, one is immediately taken with the formerly blind man who has to defend himself before his neighbors and, on two occasions, the Pharisees. But what strikes me most about this formerly blind man is the progression of this faith. When he first talks to the Pharisees, he says, “a man named Jesus” healed him. Later in the story he calls him a “prophet”. Finally, he realizes that Jesus cannot be a sinner as the Pharisees say he is and testifies that he has come from God. What a wonderful witness that begins with Jesus healing this man and through the questioning of others comes to “see” that Jesus is God’s Messiah.
I wonder if this progression of faith describes most of our experiences with coming to faith in Jesus Christ. As you reflect on this, think back in your own life to those who might have been instrumental in your faith formation. What would your story sound like? Have you ever thought of writing your faith story down? I once invited the Council members of The Shepherd’s Righteousness Lutheran Church in Taichung, Taiwan to write down their stories of faith. The president and members thought it would easy and saw no problem in doing this. At the next monthly meeting, however, none of them had finished it. They mentioned it was surprisingly difficult to put down into words their experiences with God. After I received each member’s faith story at the next meeting, they were glad they had shared their story, but it was more difficult than they first thought.
Perhaps the most beneficial things that happen to us when we share our stories of faith is the growth that happens within us. When we are able to share our faith stories I think tremendous things happen to us. We gain confidence. We are able to trace where God has been and remains active in our lives. We encourage others to share their faith. But most of all we continue to grow in faith and share our love for God in Christ.
As God’s beloved children, perhaps we might consider sharing our stories of faith not just for the sake of those who need to hear the Gospel, but as a way that our own faith may grow and blossom. This month we continue to celebrate the most important event of our lives in Christ… the Resurrection of our Lord. There is plenty to talk about! Your friends who are not of the faith may ask you what this Resurrection thing is all about. What a wonderful opportunity to share what Christ has done for you.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Steve