News from the front porch

A good man who worked hard all his life to support his family was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. The doctors have given up, and hospice has been called in. He's 56 years old and loves to play golf. Though in great pain, he persevered to drive himself to work until the past few weeks. A coworker who had invited him to church over the years gave up asking after many refusals.

Two weeks ago, the coworker was doing a minor repair at the man's house and felt compelled to go in and once again tell the man about the love of Christ. He went in and, as he recounted how his life became complete when he was born-again, the good man tearfully surrendered his life to Christ. When his son excitedly told me the good news, we rejoiced together in 18 years of prayer answered in an instant.

My neighbor painfully rose from his bed and went to get baptized in a small baptist church. My husband and I have never witnessed a more moving event. Many in the congregation who also lovingly prayed many years for this man tearfully joined in praise for this precious life now saved for eternity.

The changes in this man have been very dramatic to those closest to him; he said that he feels so free. I was honored to be trusted to assist in the spiritual birth of his wife this past Sunday night, as she had become hungry for the spiritual feast she observed her husband enjoying. She said she felt as if a huge burden had been lifted when she gave her life to Christ. Now she desires to join her husband when he gets out of bed and painfully makes his way to church.

The blessings that have resulted from this couple giving their lives to Christ has removed the sting from the cancer that is threatening this man's life.

"If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved." Romans 10:10-13 NLT

Dianne Brady is an author and speaker and can be reached at gracekeeper97@yahoo.com