Not many pastors can claim to have been a pastor in Moscow, but during my seminary days that is where God opened a door of ministry for me on weekends. Moscow, OHIO that is. My wife and I would travel up from Louisville Saturday and return Sunday night.

Early on we were cautioned about Charlie. It seemed he spent a great deal of time reading his Bible so he could argue with preachers. He was married to a native American, and was part Indian himself. They had five children. When they showed up at church one Sunday, they increased the attendance of our small group considerably.

I found Charlie to be a likeable fellow who had a unique lifestyle. He was an honest man who loved his family. He had been disillusioned by some unscrupulous preachers, but was not completely closed minded to the gospel. We tried to show Charlie and his family that we cared about them while sharing Christ.

The turning point came one Sunday afternoon, as we found his whole family playing softball in their yard. We rolled up our sleeves and joined in the fun. Charlie’s wife and my wife joined in as well. It was a special time.

Soon after that, Charlie walked the isle to receive Christ. He wanted to delay baptism until all of his family were ready. Within a few weeks, his wife and children also professed Christ.

Later when God led us to move to Texas to continue seminary, Charlie gave me a strong hug and wept. No one could remember him weeping before. His words were few but so meaningful as he said, “Thank you, preacher!”

True Story from the book “Not Return Void” Copyright © 2000 H. Warren Rice — All Rights Reserved Used by permission Book Inquiries: warren-bette-rice@juno.com