While listening to a sermon over the weekend, I was challenged to reflect on what if any impact I’ve had during my days on this planet. Jesus and the apostle Paul, shared a similar message, urging their listeners to begin to store up treasures on earth, Matthew 6:19-21 and Colossians 3:1-4. If heaven does exist and Jesus went ahead to prepare the way, John 14:2, then its time you and I begin the imprinting process.
Although minor in many ways, my first mark involved music. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, I felt compelled to inform people of God’s love. Sorting through a vast collection of Christian music in college, I created a mix that I began to give to individuals, just as a high school friend did for me. Trying to introduce people to contemporary artists, one particular creation entitled A Father”s Love struck a cord with several friends and strangers. In the days of writing letters, words of encouragement appeared in the mail box, confirming that I was on the right track.
My greatest inscription occurred during a Lay Witness Mission, a fancy name for a retreat geared toward reviving souls for a spiritually dead or dying congregation. Beside being an active participant during youth group activities, my main responsibility was to share a brief testimony, what God was teaching me or doing in my life. At a moment’s notice, I was suppose to be ready. Well, I waited and waited and waited. Finally, on Saturday night, I was told I would be talking to the entire congregation. After praying with my roommate that night, the Lord took over so when the appointed time came, I opened my mouth and the Holy Spirit spoke. Before finishing, I offered up a call for action, then played a song. As I looked up, some were actually running to the altar, dedicating their lives to Jesus.
Since this day, I guess I can include my wife, kids and a decade as a Bible teacher. However, in between the victories, there have been plenty of moments of failure, idleness and periods of self-indulgence. When you taste defeat, the best pill to swallow is humility, an important practice to keep you on the narrow path to heaven, Matthew 7:13-15. As the second coming of Jesus draws near, don’t forget to leave your imprints on earth while heaven awaits for those who call on the name of the Lord, Romans 10:9-11.
by Jay Mankus
