At The Last Minute
Grannies, as we talk about Jesus with our loved ones, we may encounter resistance.
My brother, James R, younger by two years, was an interesting situation.
Burdened with dyslexia and an injury that left him with only one eye — sight-impaired, he loved to read.
That is thanks to our mother who spent hours with him as a pre-teen, teaching him phonics.
It was a struggle, until one day our dad brought home some Classics Illustrated comic books (now in digital form).
James R, called Jimmy at that age, “devoured” the stories of The Three Musketeers, Moby Dick, and Journey to the Center of The Earth. He wanted MORE! He became a voracious reader! As an adult, he demonstrated his intelligence, wisdom, and…his denial of The Most High God.
As a young man, in his 20s and 30s, he was an atheist – there is no god at all – it’s all about man, his evolution, and his creativity and ingenuity.
Maturing to his 40s and 50s, he became an agnostic, thinking yeah, there must be something out there, but it’s definitely not a Supreme Creator.
By his 60s, Old Jim (as I lovingly call him in my Toastmaster speeches) enjoyed some major morphing! He went from denying the value of a personal computer, to enjoying the one he purchased – the one just like mine! He had fun checking in with NASA, The Smithsonian, and the pretty girls!
I fondly recall a monumental conversation at his cabin in the woods. “You mean you haven’t read The Bible? I’ve read it through twice!” That was James R, speaking to me! He admitted, “Yea. Jesus was a great man. I’m just not convinced about the God part.”
Whoa! That meant he believes in the possibility of a Most High God!! I allowed him the skepticism.
COPD took my dear Brother at the age of 67. I went to the hospital the next morning and discovered a younger, more beautiful man than I had seen in years! His hair was blonder, including his mustache and beard. His complexion was like peaches and cream. He looked so peaceful – as if in a joyful dream. But yes, it was Old Jim!
Months later, I had occasion to mention his transformation to my pastor. Tears came to her eyes. She smiled sweetly as she blessed me, “That’s the Face of Innocence in the Presence of God.”
I was overwhelmed with JOY! Jim had connected with Jesus!! He got“the God part”!!
Grannies, continue to talk and pray with your loved ones. Remember the thief on the cross:
Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:42-43
For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Luke 19:10
Jesus will Accept Us – Even At The Last Minute
08/28/30