Everyone of us can recall someone who was an impact on our lives. It may have been a family member, teacher, or anyone with whom you had contact. It could have been great or bad depending on the results.
This past weekend our new son-in-law to be came down with my daughter and the first thing they did when they sat down on the couch was to begin a conversation about the Lord. I listened to Rusty when he told me a little about his past and that he had made the decision to have a relationship with God through His son. OK, my heart was leaping for joy and I wanted to speak but did not. Rusty then went on to say that he wanted me to baptize him. Now I was honored and excited beyond words and thrilled for him and my daughter. Part of not saying anything was to catch the tears of joy!
Like many of us we were raised to know right from wrong, but just not committed to doing things right.. Yet here is a big strong man who weeps at the excitement of a relationship with the Lord. During the past year, I know my daughter has held to the foundations that she was taught years ago in church and in the family. Rusty, Stephanie and the family found a church that is contemporary and meets their needs in developing relationships on several fronts.
So I give credit to Riverhills Christian Church, family, friends, and Stephanie for being an influence in Rusty's desire to always have a relationship with the Lord and know the excitement that his family has. I am so proud of my daughter for standing on her training even during the roughest times of her life. What is more exciting is that Rusty is already being an influence on others about a relationship with the Lord (as I heard in a conversation on the phone at lunch). And it's only the beginning!
So who are you influencing? It's not just what you say but how people see you in everyday situations. Then again, who is influencing you? I pray the biggest influence is the Creator of the Universe who is passionately in love with you and a God loving friend.
Trust me when I say that the results of your influence can be the most exciting part of your life or the saddest.
Which do you chose?
