Stop and Listen

When I was younger, I remember hearing my Mom and Grandma talk about how they were "born again Christians" and that they were "saved". At the time, I also recall thinking that my mom was a "church lady". I would just listen to her to appease her and go my merry way. I use to be embarrassed when my mom would "preach" to my friends and boyfriend....and everyone else that crossed her path. I'm sure there was lots of eye-rolling going on back then, too.

In my teens and twenties I didn't really think too much about God or what would happen after I die. I knew I believed Jesus was the son of God.....and I am sure I thought that was enough. I prayed occasionally. However, I could never say the words "I am saved" while fully comprehending what that meant. Now, I know, without a doubt, I am saved. I know there is a specific moment or marker in time where one will make the choice. I remember the very day and moment that it happened to me. I even remember the clothes I was wearing and where I was standing. My life, and my outlook on life, changed from that moment on.

So, in looking back, my Mom planted seeds in me about God that would take quite some time to "grow". It took experiences, relationships, and circumstances to bring me to where I am today. As much as I am sure my Mom wanted to "save" me (and all of her children), it would never be. Only God can save. As humans, we can only "plant seeds" in people and pray that they will be "watered". And, pray that our loved ones and friends will stop and listen, because God is always trying to get our attention. No matter who we are or what we've done, God does not discriminate. I know that first hand.