Jesus Mugged Me
Have you been “mugged” by Jesus. Seriously, have you experienced God in such a way that he captured your attention. Did he hold you up in the night in your dreams or seize your thoughts down a lonesome path? Perhaps, the Spirit was leading in such a way—you had to go forward and kneel before Him? Your faith story is meaningful to you, but more importantly, its powerful for others.
Years ago, going to church meant an altar call at the end and a time for testimonies of what God had done in someone’s life. A public witness was my favorite part of church. I loved hearing someone stand where they were seated and share what God had done in their life or to tell the congregation they were struggling for whatever reason and needed prayer. It formed immediate connections amongst members and a greater sense of community. People were prayed for, grace was given, and relationships were cemented over a simple demonstration of faith, inspirational stories, and prayer requests.
Many of our churches have gotten away from these humble traditions. Moreover, people may choose to stay home to worship or go online and never experience this type of sharing. Unfortunately, my generation made it worse, because we began to keep our faith “private.” We failed to understand that being respectful of others beliefs, culture, and religion didn’t mean silence. How many of you have shared your faith story with anyone lately? When was the last time you gave a testimony for the Lord or witnessed to another person? Would your children or grandchildren be able to tell your faith story? Our young people are desperate for this knowledge. They need to hear you. Have they heard how Jesus “mugged” you?
I had to pause and ask myself these questions. My conclusion was I have fallen short. I have missed opportunities to share intimate details with my children, friends, and family about who Jesus is in my life, and how it all started at Vacation Bible School when a 10 year old girl knelt at the edge of a homemade wooden stage in a little school called Plainview R-8. Reflecting on when I was a young adult, I wish I had shared how Jesus never left me. Even when I shifted 90 degrees away, repeatedly, making mistakes—he remained. He was present. He gave me grace. In mid-life, I should have spoken more about the fact He blessed my career as a home economics teacher, school counselor and school administrator at a communty college. He gave me a mission field working with students, teachers and parents that supported them and lifted me. My work gave me joy or so I thought.
You see, real joy can only come through Jesus. I had not adequately tapped into the reserves of joy that God had stored away for me? I didn’t know or perhaps I hadn’t been paying attention. Beginning to study the Word of God with intention was transformational. My relationship with Jesus deepened as I welcomed the Spirit to sanctify me. I’ve found peace from past worries. I have greater clarity and patience over things I can’t change. Don’t get me wrong, I’m clearly imperfect. I still struggle with an occasional memory that brings shame or guilt. I still cuss once in awhile. I still frequently sin and get it wrong (ask my husband). I probably have people I should go back and ask for forgiveness. I get annoyed. Nevertheless, I still have my faith story to share with you. I’ve walked this journey with all its muddy potholes, and God regularly shows me how He can use my weakness and make it a strength.
Jesus may have “mugged” you, too. I would love to help you share your story. Let’s not leave this world without others knowing your truth, because it is the most powerful legacy you can leave behind. My newest project is a video series called, “Jesus Mugged Me.” Let’s sit over a cup of coffee and you tell me your story. Let’s do it loudly and proudly. Let’s praise the Name of Jesus for the fact he held you up and captured you, refusing to let you go. It’s the only time you can say, “I’m glad I got mugged.”
