“Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord,” Matthew 25:21

 “Gracie, tell me a story,” said her younger sister, Jeanie. Every night at bedtime, Jeanie wanted a story or she wouldn’t go to sleep! Gracie told wonderful stories! She had a creative mind and just plain thought up interesting plots and characters. This particular night, after playing outside all day, Gracie was too tired to think up something new. Finally in exasperation, she said, “There once was a man. He was born, he lived and died, the end!” “Is that all” asked Jeanie? “Yes, you will have to be satisfied with that story tonight,” she replied. So Jeanie had no choice but to go to sleep!

Gracie grew up and never stopped telling stories. Her favorites were from the Bible and she told them with enthusiasm and relish. Children loved to listen to them and would sit quietly until she was finished. She was also artistic and would draw the story at the same time. It was quite fascinating! She loved to tell the story of Jesus and how he came into the world as a baby, grew up and went around doing good. Wicked men crucified him, but he rose from the dead and lives today. Many children came to Christ through her testimony and ministry.

I know another dear saint who just went to be with Jesus. She was 96 years old and lived her whole life to serve her Lord and Savior. She never stopped telling people the good news that Jesus loved them and died to save them from their sins. She had a ministry to children for many years, a weekly Bible club in her home teaching hymns and stories from God’s Word. Many children came to Christ through her. I know when these two ladies get to heaven, Jesus will welcome them and say, “Well done, good and faithful servants…..enter into the joy of your Lord,” Matthew 25:21.

 I have thought about the short story that Gracie told, the man “who was born, lived and died, the end.”   What an empty life he would lead if he never accomplished anything for the Lord! When our lives are over and our date of birth and date of death are recorded, what have we done with the “dash” in between? God has given us healthy bodies, creative minds and everything we need to serve Him. Yet, many people don’t see the necessity to do anything for their Lord. He has promised to be with us always, never leave us or forsake us, and “equip us for every good work,” Hebrews 13:21. He will give us whatever we need and far beyond what we could ask or think! Let’s enter into the joy of serving Jesus! The first step is to ask Him, pray about what God would have you do, then when He opens a door, don’t be afraid to walk through! You will be amazed at what He will do through you if you are willing!! Just say with Isaiah, “Here am I, send me!” Isaiah 6:8.

Your friend, Jean