I have been talking for some time now about the power of personal story, and how it can inspire others as well as guide one deeper into one’s own life journey. Our Outreach Board wants to encourage individuals to share personal volunteer experiences (and perhaps how they see God at work in those experiences) for a few minutes during Sunday worship. I have asked people to consider sharing personal spiritual reflections, and a couple of people are willing to do that.

Sunday, October 18th, Barbara Coombs presented not only an introduction to Outreach’s mission theme for this year: “Uniquely Different,” but a truly moving testimony to her own experience, and she touched those of us who were present. She may have had some qualms about “speaking in public,” (who doesn’t?) but the Holy Spirit’s presence and Barb’s passion for her subject carried her beautifully.

Think of how Jesus taught so much through the vehicle of story, how many stories you read again and again as a child, how family members treasure the sharing of family stories, how telling a story comforts a heart, challenges a spirit, clarifies a purpose, inspires a gathered people, marks a milestone.

You have stories. Even if you don’t believe it, your life has something to tell, something that could be a true gift to others. Try this exercise on your own with any or all of the following (I am indebted to the book, God in My Life, by Maren and Maria Tirabassi for these):

“When have you suddenly been overtaken by a sense of God’s presence – through an unexpected meeting or new experience, in a dream, or at a time of heightened emotion?”

“What place in nature gives you a feeling of spiritual connection? This could be in ‘wild’ nature or watching the stars from your own backyard.”

“Who has influenced you in powerful and positive ways…a teacher, a coach, a friend, a neighbor, a brief acquaintance? (For this one time, leave out parents, but you could choose a grandparent.)”

“When have you been on the ‘edge’ – of an emotional, social, or justice-related experience and received some new understanding or blessing?”

“On what occasion have you experienced a community of support – this could be church but could also be a team, a group of friends, a musical group, a youth group?”

Try telling some part of your story – on paper, on your computer, on a tape recorder. Think about sharing this gift with others. If you are not sure about the latter, talk with me about it. Better still, talk with Barbara – or maybe one of our Senior High Youth who went to New Orleans – or one of last year’s four confirmands. They know the power of story.

Yours in Christ,