EXHILARATING
WITNESS

Topics: Anxiety; Courage; Evangelism; Fear; Guidance; Hearing God; Leading of the Holy Spirit; Seekers; Witnessing

References: Matthew 28:18–20; Mark 16:15; Luke 19:9–10; Acts 1:8; Romans 1:16; 1 Peter 3:15

On the flight from Chicago to Lincoln, Nebraska, I sat next to a Saudi Arabian guy, Ali, who was on his way to start college in Lincoln. As soon as I heard that he’d never been in the United States before and was from the Middle East, I felt Jesus tugging at my heart. After a little chitchat about his feelings about being so far from home and asking what he knew about American culture or life in Nebraska, I told him I was a follower of Jesus.

I asked Ali about his spiritual background. I told him that he’d probably meet a number of people in Nebraska who are Christians, and said it’d probably be helpful to understand a little of where they’re coming from. I pulled out the Four Spiritual Laws and read through each point with him.

We talked a little bit more, and then I went back to reading my book. He opened the booklet and read it cover to cover. I was so excited. I prayed for him as he was reading it, thankful to have been reminded this morning that God is the one who works, convicting people of their need for him. After Ali finished reading, I asked him what he thought, and he said it was very interesting.

As the plane landed I told him I’d pray for him, then was convicted that I should do it right then. I asked if I could pray for him, and he immediately said yes. At the baggage claim I went over and met his cousin and invited them both to an American cultural event—Christmas Eve service at our church! We’ll see!

This is why I love being a Christian—it’s heart-pounding scary at times and exhilarating when I see someone I know Jesus wants to come to him, and I have the choice to step out in faith or stay in security.

—Email from Marilyn Adamson, Orlando, Florida (December 2006)