Fill in the Blanks [Choosing Joy by K. Albers]

The Bible is full of stories, amazing stories of God working out His plan through the lives of ordinary people.  This collection of stories concluded nearly 2000 years ago, but that doesn’t mean that God stopped working out His plan through the lives of ordinary people.

In chapter 9 of the book of John, we read the story of the man who was blind from birth until Jesus healed him.  When questioned by the religious leaders about how this could be,

“He replied, “Whether he is a sinner or not, I don’t know. One thing I do know. I was blind but now I see!” John 9:25 (NIV)

All Christians have a story of redemption and life change to share.  All of us can say, “I was ______ but now I ______.”  Peter challenges us to know confidently how to fill in those blanks and be able to share our stories at a moment’s notice.

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

Recently, our pastor challenged our congregation to write out our stories in 100 words or less leaving out the churchiness and focusing on the change.  Here is what I came up with.

“I have two great longings in my life, overeating and approval from others.  These are the things that I desperately ran to for comfort and self-worth before I discovered through reading the Bible the idea that I can replace them with a focus on God.  And, I’ve found that when I choose to depend on God, He fills me up with more joy, more peace, more gratitude than chocolate or accolades ever could.  I once was greedy, but through the grace of God, the example of Jesus Christ, and the leading of the Holy Spirit, now I am satisfied.“

This week we prepare our hearts to celebrate our risen Lord.  What a perfect time to share our stories and give glory to God!