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Previous Challenge Entry (Level 2 – Intermediate)
Topic: Missionary (10/19/06)
Right to the very core of her being, Narissa was a fraud. She had fooled everyone, including her husband Lee into believing she was not only a Christian but a practicing one as well. Being a shy introvert helped to aid in the façade. Telling him she believed in Jesus was easy. Narissa knew he was a believer so she simply went along with it. When he asked her about her testimony she told him she was not ready and he respected that fact.

Narissa thought marring Lee would fill the void within but it had not. Now she was going to Mexico as a missionary’s wife and found she was adding another chapter in the lie she was living. She was expected to help spread the gospel and to help out with the women. Narissa didn’t have a personal relationship with Jesus, how was she going to be able to convince others of His love, mercy and grace when she herself had not made the decision? The fear of losing her husband kept her emotionally caged within her lie.

A miracle happened during the flight to Mexico. Narissa bent her head in prayer and for the first time in her twenty-three young years she asked Jesus to help her. Turning to face her husband, her face flushed red and damp with tears Narissa whispered, “Lee, I’m a fraud and I don’t think I am the one who should be doing this with you.”

Shocked by Narissa’s confession and not completely understanding what she meant Lee asked her to elaborate.

“I’m not a Christian. I’ve never asked Jesus into my life, nor have I sought a personal relationship with Him or asked Him to forgive me of my sins and now we’re off to be missionaries and I don’t think…”

Pulling Narissa into his strong arms, Lee allowed silence to fall around them. After a few moments he cried out to the Lord as he asked for guidance. Following God’s lead he then informed his wife everything would be all right.

Narissa couldn’t believe her ears. “Lee, I don’t think you understood what I said. I’ve been lying to you.”

Understanding why his wife thought this way, Lee choose his next words carefully. “Honey, I may not have known but God has always known. He allowed me to marry you and He will guide us as through this season in our lives. I also believe He brought us here not only to witness to others but to be witnesses to one another. You have followed my lead for the last two years but have not put it into personal use. It is my prayer you use this time to get to know Our Savior.”

Confused Narissa asked, “But then wouldn’t I be putting you second?”

“The Bible teaches us to love God’s Son first. I already know how much you love me. You’ve shown me you’d do anything for me. What’s important to me is your eternal life. Witnessing first hand my wife falling in love with and getting to know Jesus is a blessing for me and we haven’t even landed in Mexico yet.”

“Lee, if I spend all of my time getting to know Jesus, how will I be a good witness to these lost souls we’ve come to tell?”

“You’ll be on fire for Jesus. Others will see your passion and eagerness. Believe me when I tell you, others will follow, just as we’re following God’s lead. Being a missionary is all about telling others of His saving grace. The blessings come when we see first hand or hear of our brothers and sisters making the decision to ask Him into their lives.” Pausing only long enough to collect his thoughts, Lee continued, “Would you like to pray and ask Jesus into your life now or would you like some more time to think about it?”

Choking back her tears Narissa whispered, “I’ve been so focused on becoming and being your wife I believe in my heart there’s no time like the present to finally do something truly for me. I’m ready to except Jesus into my life as my beloved Lord and Savior.”
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This article has been read 1224 times
Member Comments
Member
Date
Ann FitzHenry
10/28/06
I loved your first sentence! (Right to the very core of her being, Narissa was a fraud.) It made me want to keep reading and find out more. I also loved your testimony and message. Thanks for making me think about my own journey to Christ!
Marty Wellington 
10/29/06
Very nicely done. Your title caught my attention and your story flowed along very well--kept my interest. I enjoyed the unique take on the topic. Who would have thought a missionary would be leading his wife to the Lord. Great story.
Deborah Bauers
11/01/06
You have brought home the idea that we don't have to be veteran Christians to have a testimony. How like the Holy Spirit to put us in circumstances that bring us head to head with his grace. I saw a few sentence structures that could use some tightening up, but I enjoyed your story.
dub W
11/01/06
Pretty good stuff. Watch repetition, but otherwise an enjoyable read - good flow.
Betty Castleberry
11/01/06
Oh, I like this! There was a period in my life when I felt very much like that young bride. Good work.
Sara Harricharan
11/01/06
This was a sweet story! I very much enjoyed reading it-great title too.
The storyline held my attention all the way through.
Dennis Fletcher
11/01/06
Wow, well done. Your title drew me in, your first sentence made me want more and your ending gave me satisfaction.
Marilee Alvey
11/02/06
How many people there are in the world who can identify with this story! I think about it often as I look around at our crowded services. I wonder how many would still be sitting there if things got difficult like they are in other countries and, at the same time, hope I'd remain there. The husband in your story must have been shocked, but God gave him words of encouragement that would be treasured by the young wife for years to come. Your story could be the start of an excellent discussion among Christians. Very thought provoking. Nice job.
william price
11/02/06
Very, very nice and enjoyable. The writing was honest and true. You placed a great first line out there, got my attention, and then did not dissapoint with the rest. God bless. Keep up the good work.