Living Proof

 "If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in them and they in God. And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love. Whoever lives in love lives in God, and God in them." 1 John 4: 15, 16

    During the hiatus between blizzards, I joined the winter-weary throngs who shopped to fill their coffers before the Alberta Clipper descended upon us.

    While in line at the dollar store, I smiled when I read the back of the man's ball cap who stood in front of me: "I Love Jesus." For such a succinct proclamation, it spoke volumes.

    "I like your hat," I ventured. Returning my smile, he told me just how much Jesus meant to him so I asked him how he came to know Christ as his Savior. 

    "I was sittin' in church one Sunday," he began, "when the pastor asked if anyone would like to be baptized."  Encouraged by my understanding nod, he continued. "After he said that, my arms broke out into goosebumps! When I arose to go forward, my wife and kids just gaped, and I've never looked back."

    As his turn in line came, he showed me his selection of trinkets he was purchasing - various pens and things for the children at his church. He also told me his hobby was creating wood crafts with which to share his faith. 

    It became clear he was a regular, well-liked customer when the cashier chimed in, "It's true. He has given me a cross and a necklace that he made." 

    As we exited the store, the man bade me to come over to his car where he gifted me with a handmade frame and a cross display that says, "God loves me." I hugged him, assuring him of how much he had blessed me that cold day. I was sure his gifts made Jesus smile as much as they did me.

    Down through the ages, hearts like that of this man have been changed as living proof of the existence of God. How do we know our Redeemer lives?  He lives within our hearts! From the baptism of the Ethiopian eunuch who "went on his way rejoicing" (Acts 8:39), to the joy within my own heart, and all the countless conversions in between, the Presence of the Lord has been plain to see. 

"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5: 14-16