“Save some by snatching them as from the very flames of hell itself” (Jude 23)
“Mercedes fell in the hot tub!” shouted Zachary as he came running up the stairs.
Our family was celebrating three birthdays that evening and after the food was all eaten and the gifts were opened, the children wandered downstairs to play and the adults continued visiting upstairs.
Then it happened. Mercedes had followed her cousin into the “do not enter” zone and stepped on the lid of the hot tub. It shattered beneath her weight and she fell into the hot tub. That was a big shock to her but it was worse because the thermostat was not working and the water was extremely hot.
Her older brother, Gerry, was nearby and quickly snatched her out of the hot tub. But the damage was done. Mercedes had severe burns and she was screaming in pain. Her parents rushed her to the hospital and Marvin and I followed a few minutes later. We watched the medical staff put the healing ointment and bandages on the blisters. Not even strong painkillers seemed to help dull the pain. We watched in horror, desperately wishing we could take the searing pain upon ourselves.
The next morning during my quiet time, the Lord directed me to Jude 23: “Save some by snatching them as from the very flames of hell itself.” As I read the words, the Lord spoke to me, “Katherine, in a few weeks Mercedes’ skin will be healed and she will be free from pain; however, people who don’t receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior will be in the tormenting fire of hell forever. They will never be free from the searing pain. It will be to late for them.”
After the experience with Mercedes and message from God, my zeal to give people an opportunity to ask Jesus into their lives was highly increased.
How about you?
Father, thank You for sending someone who took the time to share the gospel with me. Make me alert to the many opportunities to share with those around me - people whose hearts You have prepared to hear about God’s love and forgiveness. Amen.
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