Our kids enjoyed talking on the phone when they were small. Years ago children could Dial-A-Story and listen to a recorded Bible story provided by Child Evangelism Fellowship. The story changed weekly.
I used to have Dial-A-Story and its phone number taped to our phone. The children and their friends would frequently dial and listen. When the story ended a recording gave an additional phone number kids could call if they had questions. Aunt Hazel would be there to talk with them.
One day I called Aunt Hazel to introduce myself and express my appreciation for what she was doing.
She explained that she was 88-years old and didn’t get out much anymore, but she could still talk on the phone. She said it was her greatest joy to talk with the youngsters who called. Often her callers were teenagers with questions about life and death issues.
One day our 7-year-old daughter came to me and confessed that she and her friend had secretly called Aunt Hazel. She said she felt guilty because they had pretended they didn’t know anything about Jesus. They allowed her to tell them about Jesus and pray with them—even though they were already Christians.
I said I was glad she told me what she’d done, but she needs to call and apologize to Aunt Hazel herself. She was too embarrassed and ashamed and begged me to call for her. I finally relented and called while she listened at my side.
Aunt Hazel said she remembered the girls and knew all along that they were playing a game. Of course she forgave them—and enjoyed their call immensely.
Aunt Hazel served the Lord her entire adult life. She said she never wanted to live to be 100. She died at 99. The Lord answered her prayer.
- Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
- Learn what Child Evangelism Fellowship is doing worldwide: https://www.cefonline.com/
- SONG: I LOVE THE LORD – by Kathleen
[This life is temporary. This life is short. When this life is over, our bodies will die and become empty shells, but our souls will continue to live forever. Where will the “real you” live? Will you live for all eternity separated from God? Or will you spend eternity in the presence of God in heaven? Learn more so you can make your most important decision: http://www.godlife.com/gospel/ and http://www.godlife.com/en/about-christianity
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What a wonderful upbringing your children have had Kathleen. I never knew such a blessing existed.
Yes, the Lord has been very good to us and to them. It’s all about what we do with Jesus once we know Him. There is nothing in our past that He cannot help us overcome.
Thank you for your post on this. Good story! My daughter (just turned six) considers the dial-a-story a necessary part of the bedtime routine. It even blesses us as parents. We had to call our lady back (Mrs. VanDoren) because we accidentally hit the 1 button and got her while one of our kids was screaming. We wanted to comfort her that she wasn’t hearing a kid being attacked by who knows what. She was very kind. Both of us became Christians through CEF Good News Bible Clubs though we are from Christian families. God bless you and your writing.
Thank you, Byron! Appreciate you sharing your CEF blessing.
I love this post! So wholesome & refreshing in light of the world conditions.
Yes, it IS wholesome, isn’t it! The world indeed, is in turmoil. I do believe we are living in the last days as described in 2 Timothy 3:1-5. The peace people are searching for is only found in Jesus.