So we all have a past, no one can deny it, no one can escape it and this is truth. And if you are like me, especially me, our pasts haven’t looked that pretty at times. So what are we supposed to do about it, ignore it, deny it or even worse, unknowingly be angry about it? All these options will lead to negative consequences with relationships as we move forward through life. So this is what I have been doing about my past, talk about it. We walked with a Pastor last month and he would stop and look at those of us around him and say “send it” while we were evangelizing. At first this was intimidating and uncomfortable, but the more I shared my past and what my faith in Jesus Christ has done for me in removing those iniquities from my past, the more I realize how freeing our stories can be for people. And really, even before I left for The World Race I had been starting to share my past with others close to me with overwhelmingly positive responses, so I guess I shouldn’t have been so nervous. I tell you though, it can be really overwhelming being in a foreign country, in a complete strangers house, surrounded by 5 or 6 people and telling them how chaotic your life was. Or, going into a classroom with 60 students and talking about your past life. However, when we share our stories with others, and when we share with them the hope we have in Christ and how He has changed our lives, we can literally see a change occur right in front of us. I cannot explain it, but it is very uplifting for everyone involved. Everyone of our stories resonate with many around us, we all suffer and fight very similar battles. When we are released of shame and that allows us to speak bluntly, people pay attention. Adults in these communities are glued to the words and the kids in school are locked on the message. Many of the adults have already struggled with and therefor relate to my story, and the kids are beginning to be tempted by things I speak of. So where you are at in life matters at this point. If you are still struggling with things in your past, known or unknown, I encourage you to reach out to our Lord. HE WILL HEAR YOU, this I can guarantee. That message is repeated over and over again in the Bible. Remember though, an answer or comfort may take some time, we live in a world in which we have instant results, this isn’t the case with God, 2 Peter 3:8 explains this to us. But keep patience with things we bring to the Lord and He will be faithful. Others, who have already experienced His mercy and grace with things in the past, share your story whenever you get the chance. We have no idea what chains our stories could break if we only shared them. Your story and voice is so important and so valuable, no matter the circumstance surrounding it. I encourage everyone to share how Jesus has moved in your life, through you, He will change lives around you. Send it!!!
