I Love To Tell The Story

There's an old gospel hymn the church I grew up in used to sing called, “I Love to Tell the Story.” Here are some of the words: “I love to tell the story, ’Twill be my theme in glory, to tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love.”

I think one of the most important things we do as humans is tell stories. Jesus was a master storyteller. We learn so much about people from their stories, especially their personal stories.

Recently my wife Karen and I were with some friends we have known for over 30 years. Over dinner we started reminiscing about how we met our spouses. Even though we know this couple really well, we learned more about them as they shared details of how they met and how things progressed into a romantic relationship.

After they told their story they asked us about ours. They know bits and pieces about our story, but this was our opportunity to tell it again and fill in the blanks. I don’t know how many times Karen and I have told our story over the years, but we never get tired of telling people about how we met and how we fell madly in love with each other. In fact, each time we tell it, it’s like we are reliving it again. Our friends laughed at some parts of our story and expressed surprise at other parts of our story.

When we come into a relationship with Jesus it becomes our story. Undoubtedly there are events that led up to making a decision to follow Jesus. That's a big part of our story. Here is one way to think about your salvation story: (BC) - Before Christ, and (AC) - After Christ. This is what my life looked like before Christ, and this is what my life looks like now that I have a relationship with Christ.

I personally love telling people my salvation story. It’s not like I have to study or rehearse to present my story. It’s my personal history, and most of us know our personal history well enough to share it any time or any place.

I know a lot of people are afraid to talk about religion, or the Bible, or about faith. I get it. Someone might say, “I don’t believe the Bible,” or “I’m not a religious person,” or “I have issues with Christianity.” It happens, and let’s face it, it can stop a conversation quicker than an unexpected knock at the door.

When given the opportunity it’s great to share our faith with others, but sometimes it’s hard to get that opportunity. However, telling your story falls into a different category. No one is ever going to stop you and say, “I don’t believe you,” or “I think you made this up.” It’s your story, and your story carries a lot of weight. One of the many benefits of telling your story is you get to relive it as you're telling it. Sharing your story re-energizes your faith.

A couple of weeks ago I did a wedding for a friend. At the reception my friend's brother started asking me questions about how I became a pastor. I began with my salvation story because that was the beginning of how things progressed into me becoming a pastor. Once again as I shared my story I could feel the excitement welling up in me. I want to encourage you to look for an opportunity to tell your story. The person you tell your story to is going to be stirred one way or another. Your story will bless them and it will bless you.

That’s why I love to tell the story!

Go tell your story!
Steve