The other Sunday, RJ
introduced me to his friend, Mike. It was Mike’s first time at Calvary Austin. The
fact that he showed up at all came as a huge surprise to RJ. It wasn’t his
first time to invite somebody to church, but most invitations were never accepted.
RJ compared his efforts to sea turtle hatchlings finding their way to the sea.
“Only a few make it.” he laughed. That’s how it is when folks are invited to
church services! Nevertheless, the Lord stirred RJ’s heart to be more active in
reaching out to the lost.
It was at the workplace where
RJ led Mike to the Lord. RJ then encouraged his friend to take the big leap and
visit Calvary Austin. Mike said he’d like to go, but never made it.
After a few no-shows, it became apparent that Mike didn’t have transportation. RJ kindly offered
him a retired automobile sitting on his property - free of charge. The following
Sunday, Mike happily drove himself to our fellowship in his new 'rickety old putter'. That’s
the day I shook his hand to welcome him.
After meeting Mike, I headed
back to the auditorium for second service. At the door, I was welcomed by another
bright and cheery face. It was her first day as greeter. I was blessed beyond
measure to see her serving, because she too was like a lost sea turtle. She was
introduced to our fellowship through our jail ministry. When she got out, one
of our ladies invited her to Calvary Austin. She’s been a regular ever since.
There are countless more sea
turtle stories to share, and there are plenty more hatchlings floundering about.
Some just need a nudge. It’s something we can all do. God will take it from
there.
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