I lit the gas and slid the big porridge pot over the flame. Water and a little salt had been added to the oats some time earlier. Five minutes passed and it looked as if nothing was happening in the pot. A little stirring of the contents of the pot and a bit more patience while the gas continued its work of bringing the pot to the boil. Eventually there was evidence of something happening. There were bubbles popping up here and there in the pot showing that it was beginning to boil.

A certain length of time was needed to allow the raw oats to cook and become soft and ready to serve for eating.

The whole procedure led me to think of a person who has been introduced to the gospel message. At first there might not be any evidence of anything happening but as the Holy Spirit begins to work in the heart, and conviction of sin troubles the person, changes begin to appear. Questions are asked about how to get right with God and instructions as how to accept Jesus as Saviour and forgiveness of sin is in the mix.

The process can take some time but, like the porridge, a gradual change takes place which the bible calls the new birth which happens when Jesus is accepted into the heart by faith.

The person has become ready, not to be served like the porridge, but to serve his lord and master Jesus.

Ready to introduce others to the saving power of the Gospel.

The gospel in a nutshell is, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 KJV)

Donnie Black