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I'm a Believer...
"The Stranger"
A stranger came into the Bar last night and sat at a table sipping a coke. I never saw him around before, and wondered if this was a joke. He wore a loose robe that came to his feet. His figure was long and lean. And as I looked into his eyes, Oh what sorrow he'd seen. I stopped at this bar each night after work, to have a few beers with the guys, but as I sat at the bar with my drink, I wondered if this was wise. I swung back around to the man in the robe, that was woven without a seam. He seemed so out of place. I wondered if this was a dream? His eyes caught mine, as I glanced his way, and he looked into my Soul. "My son," his words seemed to say, "Jesus Can Make you Whole." That sudden thought startled me, as religion was really a joke. Why would I think of that now? Something inside me broke. His eyes glanced around the room, coming back to rest on me. I downed my drink, and ordered a scotch. I really wanted to flee. I thought of my wife sitting at home, and what I'd put her through. I knew she had dinner ready. The kids were waiting too. I had to admit I slapped her around, and gave her a real hard time. I thought of her words the night before, " I'm praying for you Joe. You're running out of time." The man at the table beckoned to me, and I slid down off my stool. I found myself walking his way. I felt like such a fool. He looked at the seat across from him, and I slid into the chair. I suddenly became aware of my sin. Confusion filled the air. Who was this stranger who entered the confines of my Soul? Who was this man who told me, That Jesus would make me whole? I looked across the table at him, a word he did not speak. But in my soul I heard him clear, "This life you cannot keep." Startled, I looked into his eyes and I knew he spoke to me. Guilt surged within. I wanted to be free. I remembered the preacher's words, last Sunday at the church. Yes I went faithfully, but Jesus was left in the lurch. I went for the business contacts and those who could further me. I went to please others, for appearance was everything you see. I sat faithfully in the pew, as the preacher ranted and raved. He said the end was near, and many would not be saved. He said prophecy was being fulfilled, and Jesus could come any day. But I just laughed it off. There was just no way. People were saying that, back down through the years. It was just a myth, that played on people's fears. "Give me a double scotch;" I called to the girl at the bar. The waitress brought it over. She said her name was Star. "Can I sit and talk with you?" she asked in a sultry tone. "I'll keep you company. You're sitting here all alone." I shook my head no, and took a drink. I wasn't really free. And besides, couldn't she see the man, sitting across from me? I paid her for the drink, and sent her on her way. Then looked back at the stranger, wondering what he'd say. His hair was dark and straight; his beard was neat and trimmed. His eyes looked into mine. I knew that I had sinned. I jumped up to my feet wanting to get away. I couldn't stand these feelings. I didn't know what to say. I glanced at him one last time, and dashed into the night. But underneath the street lamp, my eyes saw quite a sight. I saw the same stranger, looking back at me. His eyes were full of tears. But how could this be? I stumbled to my car, and fumbled with the door. I finally got it open. My mind could take no more. All the way home, I kept seeing the stranger's eyes, the pity in his gaze, as if he could see my lies. My heart was filled with guilt; my soul was filled with sin. All the preachers' words came crashing home within. I pulled into the drive, and slowly turned the key. The house was dark. I wondered why. What could this be? I laid my head upon the wheel as sorrow filled my soul. "Oh my God, what have I done. Can Jesus make me whole? My soul is filled with darkness, and Satan guides my way. Oh Jesus, I'm so sorry. How did I go astray? I know you died upon the cross to take my sins away, but I always put it off, until another day." The stranger's eyes looked at me, from deep within my soul. And suddenly I knew. Jesus would make me whole. I made my peace with God that day, and gladly set things right. I vowed to never leave him, to always show his light. He sent his Holy Spirit deep within my soul. I was filled with love and peace. I know he made me whole. I climbed out of the car, and looked up to the sky. The stars twinkled brightly. And Now, I knew why. Jesus loves me, they all seemed to say. A big smile lit my face. This was a brand new day. Again I saw the stranger's face, looking back at me. His eyes were filled with love. It was plain for me to see. I don't know who the stranger was that came my way that day. But he set my feet upon a path, traveling another way. I walked to my front door, wondering why all was dark? Had something happened while I was gone? Then I heard a joyous bark. It came from the other side of the now open door. My little terrier glad to see me, danced on the polished floor. Suddenly the room was filled with light, and friends called out to me, "Happy Birthday.. Happy Birthday. " I had forgot you see.
As I walked into the room, surprise etched on my face, I saw my wife standing there, and took her in my embrace. In a joyous voice, I said, "I gave my heart to Jesus. God filled me with His Grace." My friends knew my heart wasn't straight and true. I knew their prayers went up for me, before each day was through. Now their joy was evident as they crowded round, truly today's your birthday, came the happy sound. I hugged my wife to me, and whispered in her ear. "I'm so very sorry, please forgive me dear." She looked into my eyes and sent her pure sweet smile, " I knew the Lord would bring you in. All the pain is now worthwhile." Again I saw the stranger smile, as he looked at me. The stranger was no stranger. I knew this in my heart. It was Jesus all the time. It was Jesus from the start.
written by "Sue"
