Deeply encouraged

           We know something special was happening when we saw Martin’s (not his real name) feet.  Normally he was a snappy dresser, but that day he wore blue flip-flops.

            “Big day today, Martin!” someone greeted him.

            “Yes! I have been waiting!”  He was walking on air.

            A few hours later, he stood waist-high in a pool in the middle of a crowd.

            Several months earlier, some coworker had though they could “beat it out of him.”  They sought to teach Martin a lesson for embracing Jesus.  But Martin wouldn’t budge.

            There he stood proudly, a new creation, on with Christ.  As Martin told his story, his voice remained steady until he recited some Bible verses he had grown to love.  Then the tears flowed.  When the pastor helped him under the water and back up again, the crowed cheered.

            Martin climbed out of the baptismal and sloshed across the patio, hugging people as he went, filled with joy over his public proclamation of faith in the Triune God.

            Several weeks later one of Martin’s coworkers called and feigned interest in Jesus.  When Martin met him, a group ambushed him.  And he didn’t fight back, through they broke his arm and injured his face.  Martin’s response?  He was deeply encouraged. ~~ This report came from Gloria Furman, who serves in Dubai.