We often think about people long ago in history books like the Bible or missionary biographies as exemplary people that were legends in their time as well as now, and it seems hard to live up to their example of faith. In many ways they were exemplary, but there were many others in their time that were just as exemplary, but didn't have their records written down, or simply did not have their records become popular - that doesn't matter though, because God knows all. In the last few days, however, I have been thinking of people in my own life that have been great examples of faith. As with the Biblical characters we have considered this week, each too have their faults, as do we all, but their faith in God shines in their lives through their actions and conduct, and that is exemplary. Most who read this will not know the people I name, and I have deliberately not included surnames, but maybe it will be a help to see testimony of lives today living out faith in a quiet way.
By faith Garfield, a church elder, offered to work through Bible studies with me regularly on Sun afternoons in a mentor-type relationship. By faith he guided me, moulded me, and willing debated with me, and taught me patiently over many years. He died of cancer the year I came to university, in faith looking forward to Christ coming to take him in a 'chauffeured trip' home.
By faith my Mum prayed for me, prayed with me, comforted me, and guided me through many years, and continues.
By faith my Dad taught me, disciplined me, and led by example in his spiritual walk. By faith he made bold profession of his faith and would not tolerate error or compromise with the essential truths of God, and continues to do so.
By faith Simon created a welcoming community at the hostel in his role as head of the hall. By faith he started a small group with the students that prayed for the students, and encouraged and led small 'faith groups' each year that encouraged and shepherded Christian students, and led questioning students through what it meant to be a Christian. By faith he encouraged some that left the hall to keep working through their questions and curiosity with some of the Christian friends they knew. He continues to live his faith out in this way today.
By faith Malcolm presented a peaceable witness to Christ in the hostel as an RA. By faith he helped to lead small groups, both of Christians and seekers. By faith he continued to meet with students from the hall after leaving the hostel and marrying his (now) wife.
By faith Bill and Wendy welcomed me into their home regularly, often having me for lunch after church, and spending time in prayer and discussing the week and trials/encouragements that God has brought through the week.
There are many more in my life that have shown much faith, but these few will have to do for now. Who in your life has shown faith through their lives? How does your faith show in your life?
No comments:
Post a Comment