For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes—the Jew first and also the Gentile. This Good News tells us how God makes us right in his sight. This is accomplished from start to finish by faith. As the Scriptures say, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.”

Romans 1:16-17

Dear God, I think 98% of Christians need training in how to share the Gospel. I’m included in that group. We either don’t know or over time we forget what we are “selling.” In fact, I know there are people in church every Sunday who are there because they’ve heard about this hope, but they still leave having never heard the message: There is hope! There is peace! There is freedom! All you have to do is let go of yourself, accept this wonderful gift of Jesus and then begin a life of discipleship.

I’ve been asked to preach at this one church every month for the last few, and now I’ll be there twice in August. Up until now, I’ve been following the passages the national church assigns for the day and then preaching from that—usually the Old Testament lesson. But now I’m really feeling led to take the second one in August and do an old fashioned Gospel message.

There’s a son by Dennis where the chorus says, “And I wish I could take your heart into my heart. I wish I could show you just how good it feels to let go of the pain you know is killing you and cling to the only one who can heal. But I know if I did then it wouldn’t be you. Because you, you’re the only one choosing for you. It’s true.”

Father, teach me to share the Gospel and make me your messenger. Remind me of the need that you met in my life over 30 years ago and guide me deeper into your presence.

In Jesus’ name I pray,

Amen