The weeks following I checked in on Bob often. Kind of funny, how two guys–complete opposites–we’re now the best of friends, all because of an MP3 player.
Bob is 71. I am 32
Bob is black. I am white.
Bob doesn’t have much money. I have more than I need.
Bob is an ex-convict. I’ve never been to jail.
Bob is a widower. I’m married.
Like I said–we’re opposites.
A short time later I invited Bob to church, deeply desiring for him to meet Jesus. After a few invitations he eventually accepted and sat with my wife and I last Spring. If he felt awkward sitting in our mostly white church, he didn’t let on.
After the service I introduced Bob to our senior pastor Rick. Our conversation shifted from questions about Bob’s background to his eternal destiny. Bob shared with Rick and me that moments before his mother’s death, she shared with him about the hope she had in Jesus Christ. Bob told us about the peace in her eyes while relaying her strong faith in Jesus’ death on the cross for her sin.
Rick asked Bob if he wanted that same hope, if he wanted Jesus. Rather emotionally, Bob nodded in agreement. Right then and there the three of us knelt near the altar, and Bob told Jesus that he wanted to follow him. Bob confessed that he wanted to stop trying to control his life and invited Jesus to take over.
After several minutes of prayer, Rick, Bob, and I stood and embraced. Bob wept and when I looked into his eyes I noticed the distinct peace that now defined his face.
