Connections - Day 5 - Sarah

Meet Sarah. (not her real name) Sarah was a patient of mine today. (which is why I can't tell you her real name. :) She has beautiful red hair and pretty blue eyes. Sarah has a peacefulness about her in spite of the fact that she was facing the possibilty of life changing news. At 19, Sarah has her whole life ahead of her. She just finished her freshman year at a local college on her long journey to a doctorate in Special Education. She has already made her decision before stepping into the exam room - if the test is positive, she's simply going to be one of those mommies who raises her children while pursuing her dreams. In this case, and probably to her relief, Sarah won't have to concern herself with that challenge - her test was negative.

Now, my job involves meeting strangers - so that makes this contact relatively easy. My job ALSO involves evangelism. Although initial stranger connection can be a bit challenging, some may view evangelism more of a challenge because the course of conversation has a goal in mind beyond just gaining basic knowledge about another person, that ultimately ends with a question looking for a response from the stranger. I've been so grateful for my job because of this element - evangelism. I've had to learn to share the gospel quickly but enthusiastically, bringing it to a close by presenting the invitation . I sort of follow a pattern when sharing the gospel. First - I present the reality that many people lack peace and hope. (usually the stranger agrees). Then I share the "problem": sin and selfishness which brings separation from God. I follow that up by telling her about God's love demonstrated through Jesus' sacrifice on the cross so that we can be reconciled and finally I present the invitation. It might sound "routine", but the truth is, the life of the gospel is a passion that burns in my soul so I try to just "tell it like it is" - passion and all. :) You can imagine it's a good day when someone accepts the invitation and chooses to trust God with their life through faith in Jesus.

In this case, Sarah seemed moved, and said she wanted to accept the invitation to reconcile with God, but that she just felt a little hesitant about it. I won't press a person, just because I believe strongly that the decision has to remain theirs. I've had to learn that if someone doesn't accept the offer of salvation, it doesn't necessarily mean I failed to communicate it effectively. The Lord reminded me that many rejected His offer even when HE shared the gospel--but it's still hard. Sarah allowed me to pray for her and so I did - and so I shall. Father God, draw this sweet girl to Yourself and help her hear Your tender voice calling her to Your heart. Set the invitation ever before her until she opens her heart and receives Your love and mercy. Thanks!