So my husband has us on another cruise ship. The dear man is not yet a follower of Jesus, but I praise God that he respects my faith. He understands that when we travel, I not only enjoy our time together, but I am also on another mission trip.
I typically wait one day before calling for an appointment with the cruise director. Will I be permitted to do the church service on Sunday? I pray. Two days later he has not returned my call. I pray and attempt to see him without an appointment. He’s out. I’m told I’ll need to track him down on Deck 5. I’m praying as I go. “Lord, help me bring honor to Your name. Use me.”
I find him and he tells me he’s been meaning to return my call. “The church service is something I’m uncomfortable doing. I’m happy if anyone else is willing to take over. However, I’ll need to see your sermon notes.”
His secretary copies my sermon notes and three days later I have heard nothing from the cruise director. I’m getting stressed. I’m praying. “Lord this cruise will be over on Monday! Is this Your will or not? Perhaps my sermon was too Christ-centered to meet with his approval.” I again pray as I walk to his office without an appointment.
He’s in! He says, “I’m glad to see you! Let’s get that church service scheduled! I’ll put it in the Saturday night bulletin. BTW, your sermon notes were fine.”
I walk out of his office rejoicing. It’s going to happen! “Thank You Lord! You are working this out! Please prepare the hearts of those You want to come. Draw them to Yourself. Anoint my words and use me to save souls. It’s all for You Lord Jesus, Amen.”
Postscript: It could not have gone better! I had Good News booklets for those who wanted to grow in their relationship with Christ—several came forward to receive them. One lady said she was a school principal: “I was trying to memorize everything you said. Perhaps I should have one of your booklets.” A man who identified himself as Buddhist asked for a booklet. He said, “Never in all my life have I ever heard anything like this.”
THANK YOU LORD!
- He [Jesus] said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. Mark 6:15
- The booklet I used is Would You Like to Know God Personally? by Bill Bright: http://www.cru.org/how-to-know-god/would-you-like-to-know-god-personally.html On the back of the booklets I had written the website for Global Media Outreach for those who want to learn more about Christ and also obtain a free online mentor: http://www.godlife.com
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You are amazing Kathleen. Your journeys radiate the love of God wherever you go. Praise God for hearts touched and for walls broken down because of your faithfulness.
Thank you Liana! Actually, I’m not amazing. I have fears and doubts like everyone else. Boldness does not come easy. Yet I’ve noticed that when I step out in faith for Christ He blesses.
It’s so inspiring Kathleen to see how you share Christ with others…love it!
Thanks JoAnne! Did you also notice the stressful but prayerful week that preceded the event?
Awesome!!!
Thank you Carol. I appreciate the encouragement!
Of course you’re awesome…few people are as gifted. Where can I hear that sermon myself? Do I have to go on a cruise with you? 🙂
Dear Dottie,
Thank you, you’re pretty awesome yourself! We have no plans right now for a cruise, but I’d certainly invite you to join us if we did!