Day 11 of the New Testament in 40 Days— and thanks to a babysitter and a friend who pointed the way years ago

Hello and welcome to Day 11!

Our reading today is Luke 8-11.

Rather than talk about the reading, I have something else…

This morning I was praying, thanking God for the past year, for the past 48 years, for the next 48 years, for eternity with Him… when I remembered and gave thanks for a babysitter of mine from when I must have been about 4 years old who prayed with me at bedtime. I think his name was Darren.

It was this babysitter who started me in the habit of praying before bedtime. What a gift!

Next I thanked God for my junior high friend, Anna, who invited me to go to church youth group events and then weekly church with her and her family. I LOVED the experience. I loved the social aspect, sure, but I loved digging into the message, the learning and asking questions. I remember that Anna got most of her ‘Biblical history’ from Raiders of the Lost Ark, so, eventually I had to help HER out, but she got me on the right path both on facts and on a relationship with Christ. She made that invitation. That invitation lead to an incredible journey.

I don’t have any idea where Darren or Anna are today. My mom might have a clue on Darren. Anna moved back to Korea in 1985 or 86 and we lost touch.

Those two had a BIG impact on my life. I am ever, ever grateful. I look forward to giving them a massive hug (or the equivalent) when I have the pleasure of seeing them again in eternity. Both did simple things with eternal consequences.

I share this today because, well, I am grateful to both of them for stepping out and sharing with me. My heart is happy and so, as I talked about yesterday, I guess it is overflowing with some good stuff. And also, I share it because you might not know what lasting impact you may have on the people you come across.

You may never know what impact reading this Bible with our little online group may have on those around you, in addition to yourself. And you may never know what impact praying for someone, encouraging someone and inviting someone along may have.

I’m so glad you’re with me on this journey!

In love,