Pastor's Pen - Dr. Jon Stubblefield

Lynn Jones, a pastor friend in Booneville, Mississippi, tells about a Sunday School teacher who told her children the story of creation. She talked about all the things God made and how everything was "good." She concluded with her theme, "God makes everything." It was at this point, one little boy disagreed. "No," he said adamantly, "God doesn't make everything." The teacher was startled and a bit upset by his impertinence, but she did not react visibly. She calmly replied, "Well, now, tell me something that God doesn't make." The little boy replied, "He doesn't make the beds." You probably have noticed that yourself but never had the nerve to bring it up!

God has left a good bit unmade in His world. But this reality makes possible life's challenges and opportunities. Allen Stockdale noted: "When God made the earth, He could have finished it. But He didn't. Instead, He left the rivers unbridged and the mountains untrailed. He left the forests unfelled and the cities unbuilt. He left the laboratories unopened. He left the diamonds uncut. He gave us the challenge of raw materials, not the satisfaction of perfect, finished things. He left the music unsung and the drama unplayed. He left the poetry undreamed in order that men and women might not become bored, but engage in stimulating, exciting, creative activities that keep them thinking, working, experimenting, and experiencing all the joys and durable satisfactions of achievement."

God makes everything, but He doesn't make the beds. He wants us to join Him in a partnership in His world. He desires that we work cooperatively with Him in accomplishing His purpose. Paul reminds us that "We are laborers together with God" (1 Corinthians 3:9).

The disciples did not sit and wait for God to bring the world to Jesus Christ. God sent them into the world to share the Good News about Jesus Christ. He called them to be witnesses (Acts 1:8). Are you willing to share your faith with others?

Here are some tips on witnessing. 1. Live the Christian life. Most people know you believe in Jesus Christ; now show them He is believable. 2. Find small ways to help others. Christianity is not a badge of superiority, but a servant's towel. 3. Pray for an opportunity to share Christ with those around you. 4. Tell family, friends, and acquaintances what Christ means to you. Your "story" is the best approach to witnessing. 5. Take advantage of your daily traffic patterns. As you encounter people in various settings, invite them to attend Main Street with you.