Since 2006, my family and I have attended an Easter presentation at a local church. We were members there and served in many capacities until God directed us elsewhere. Regardless, we still went to the yearly dramatization because of the incredible performance and the dedication of the whole crew. My husband participated as a soldier once and learned very early on how committed all the directors, actors, dancers, and stage crew were. Every year, the truth message is conveyed from different perspectives, giving a new level of understanding. They do an outstanding job.
I had mentioned the presentation to some colleagues and invited them to join me and my family. Since I started my employment at this office, I have talked about my relationship with Jesus, who He is, and how I live because of Him, which created open doors for more discussions. It allowed me to pray for them even though they had their doubts. One friend in particular seemed curious. I could tell the more she learned, the more she wanted to know Jesus. My family and I have been praying for her salvation ever since. Even on our way to the event, we prayed that she would learn the true meaning of freedom and accept Jesus into her heart. Since the dramatization is a very popular local event, we decided to sit separately to ensure we all had a good view of the stage. My husband and son sat together while I tried to sit on the balcony level with my colleagues. I made sure to sit next to my inquisitive friend in case she had any questions. I prayed throughout the presentation for her heart to be open to receiving the message. Throughout the evening, she inquired what was happening and why. And towards the end of the crucifixion, she started to cry. I kept my silence and waited. I wasn't sure if the tears came because of the torture Jesus was going through or because she was genuinely convicted of the truth message. Nevertheless, I kept praying.
Once the acting and dancing ended, the pastor came on stage and explained the reason for the season- the true meaning of the resurrection. Then, he prayed for everyone who wanted to welcome Jesus into their lives. My friend leaned over with tears in her eyes and told me that she prayed with the pastor, asked for forgiveness, and accepted Jesus as her Savior, which then made me cry alongside her. I started sharing with the others and even the strangers sitting nearby. Everyone was so happy to celebrate our friend's new birthday.
Witnessing my friend's conversion was one of the best gifts I could have ever received. I'm excited to walk this journey with her and continue to see her relationship with Jesus grow.
As you celebrate Resurrection Sunday this weekend, may you continue to be enthralled by Jesus, our Lord and Savior.
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”
~John 11:25-26 (NIV)
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