It was in the 1800s when the poor, little girl from London gathered
together her courage and went to church.
It took courage because
she knew she was not dressed as well as the others who worshipped in the
large congregation. It took all her courage because she had never been
taught the many fine points of religion, and she was embarrassed. Even
so, her courage almost wasn't enough when she saw the pastor standing
outside the great doors of the cathedral before worship.
But this
is a happy story, and I'm pleased to tell you the pastor saw her
hesitation. In the few minutes before worship, he shared the Savior's
story. There wasn't much time, but it was enough. When the pastor asked
if she would like him to pray for her, the girl agreed, but asked that
he not use her name.
It was a great service made greater by the
blessed truths the pastor shared with simple and wonderful words. When
it came time for the prayer of the church, the minister said, "Lord,
there is a little girl here who does not want her name known, but You
know her. Watch over her special soul."
As I said, this is a
happy story, so I can share that the entire congregation was respectful,
as each silently and wholeheartedly prayed for the nameless little girl.
Yes, it was silent, until, from way back in the church, a young
voice called out. The minister looked and saw the little girl on her
feet and shouting, "Please, dear Jesus, it's me they're praying about.
I'm that little girl."
Now I've been asked if that story is true.
Pretty much. Yup. It is.
You see, it doesn't matter if we are
young or old, rich or poor, wise or foolish. Like this little girl we
come to Jesus, unsure, afraid, dirty, doubting and unworthy.
Each
week, in spite of our sins and shortcomings the Holy Spirit reaches out
and invites us once again to hear the Good News story of Jesus Christ.
Now Scripture is clear, Jesus came into this world to seek and save the
lost, that is, every man, woman and child who has ever or will ever
live.
But it is equally true that Jesus has come for each of us
as individuals.
When He hung upon the cross, He was carrying your
sins and my sins. True Man and true God, He saw my helplessness, sadness
and despair.
He saw yours as well.
This is why each of us
can rightly say, "Please, it's me, Jesus. It's me. I'm the little boy,
the little girl You have come to save." And like that little girl we can
rest assured that while Jesus has come for all people, He has also come
to save us.
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, there are billions upon
billions of people in this world. Only You, the Son of God, could see
them all. Only You could love them in spite of their transgressions. For
that love, I give thanks and offer myself in humble praise. In Jesus'
Name. Amen.
Kbr>
Pastor Ken Klaus
Lutheran Hour Ministries All rights reserved;
not to be duplicated without permission.
