Darlene J. Conard

Years ago, I had an encounter with a stranger that changed my life. Getting out of my sister’s car to go into the gas station I came face to face with a drunkard. Intimidated by the man I stood frozen as slurred words come from his mouth. I opened my mouth saying, “Jesus loves you. I’m going to be praying for you.” Silence filled the air. “Please excuse me sir. I need to go into the store.” He stepped aside, letting me by.

I hadn’t been a Christian for very long. There was much for me to learn.

While getting the items on the grocery list the man outside approached me with tears in his eyes. “Ma’am thank you. I used to go to church but I backslid. My wife and I split up and I don’t see my daughter as much. I just want you to know, God has been dealing with me.” My heart ached for the man as I watched and listened to his sincerity. No longer did I see a man numb by alcohol, but someone quickened by the spirit of God. 

Today going about my daily routine, I thought of how Jesus went after the one sheep that strayed. (Luke 15:3-7) I have fallen so short! He doesn’t reject me. Instead, His mercy comes after me.

  My only motive for writing this is that my experience may encourage you. Words of hope are powerful enough to pull desperate souls out of destitution.

“Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.” (Luke 6:36) I definitely am in need of His mercy.

That one person whom we may not think or know is struggling are the ones God is working miracles in. Don’t be fearful or think for a moment that God can’t use you to make a difference!

“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 5:14-16 KJV

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