As I read a post from our former missionary Pastor, it was like reading another chapter in a great love story. He told how he and his wife met in Bible College and went on to Pastor Churches. He recounted their life together as overseas missionaries in Africa and Europe and how they drew closer to GOD and to each other. He filled his message with praise for GOD’s help and his wife for her support. He is a great writer and has many wonderful stories to tell.
My wife and I enjoyed Pastor Richard and Sister Sherry’s ministry while we were living in Brussels. Pastor Richard is such a loving man and that reflected in his sermons. Sister Sherry plays a critical role in their ministry. Pastor Richard seemed a little more weighed down whenever Sister Sherry was away, and refreshed when she returned. They didn’t let their busy lives keep them from finding time together. They posted glowing pictures of themselves enjoying each other’s company around Belgium. Pastor Richard regularly updated their profile picture on Facebook, along with sweet notes about his wife. They set a high standard for the rest of us to try and follow.
Now they are back in the US and the love story continues. It is great to see them spending more time with their family while pointing men to JESUS. They are sharing their spiritual wisdom and practical experience with a new generation of missionaries and helping expand international Church ministries overseas. You see, as great as Pastor Richard and Sister Sherry’s love story is, the greatest love story is GOD’s love for us.
“God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV). How much love does it take to sacrifice your own son? “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). JESUS didn’t resist when the religious leaders demanded His death. He let them crucify Him and then prayed “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do” (Luke 23:34 KJV).
You say, that is an old story and I didn’t crucify anyone! When you reject GOD’s gift, you are like those who didn’t accept Him and cried for His death. Fortunately, JESUS is still praying “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” GOD sent His Son to die for the sins of “whosoever believeth” and that includes you and me! Accept His love and you will be part of the greatest love story ever!
Wayne Lance (2018)