My husband and I led a Bible study in an apartment complex community room every Tuesday night for a decade or more. The gathering was part of our weekly life, like grocery shopping. We did this because a resident in the complex requested we come there because she said the residents needed hope. When we learned of this, the timing was perfect since we were new in the community and trying to build relationships and a reputation to birth a church. Establishing small groups was part of that strategy, so this invitation fit the vision. The years in the apartment complex yielded a harvest of C,hrist-followers, some precious friends, and vivid memories.

At the conclusion, the Gospel was presented. In the hushed room, only my husbands joyful voice drew their attention. Reverence for the Spirit’s activity was evident as the viewers pondered the dramatic depiction of Jesus’ birth in the movie. I was sure no one could possibly resist the palpable presence of the Spirit and I prayed that no one would.

A time of prayer was offered to give those present the opportunity to respond in belief to saving faith in Christ Jesus. Immediately after a single voice was heard. It was from an elederly gentleman who shared with his wife a discovery; he understood for the first time how they could get to heaven.

Everyone at their table called my husband over as the man and his wife signed their commitment card, which stated they’d prayed to receive Christ. The joy and rejoicing of those around the couple was not only encouraging to the couple, but to us. Everyone understood the significance of what had occurred. A long time resident of the town, and retired teacher in the school system received Christ, just like so many of them had done before. They knew what it was like to be lost and then found.

And heaven sang.This lifelong Catholic couple in their 90’s recognized the truth of God’s Son, Jesus. He came so that they could receive Him and gain the right to be called children of God! Stability in a community or a significant career would not help him get to heaven. Yes, he’d had a good life, but the truth of the Gospel was a contrast to the futility of this earth. He realized that his need for stability, and certainty, would not come from anything he had done. It all became clear to him that salvation in Jesus was the only way to heaven. The poignant message penetrated a lifetime and now they each understood how to gain eternal life. From that point onward, this couple came to Bible study faithfully. Even though they were gentle and kind before when they visited the group, now they were changed. They listened to every lesson, they started reading their Bibles. It wasn’t long when we learned the husband died. We were sad but we all latched on to the truth that he was with the Lord.

I think destinations matter. One destination in this story is that my husband and I obeyed God’s direction to start ministry in that apartment complex. Did it matter that we’d been obedient to that invitation to teach there? Yes. Did it matter that this dear, aged couple learned about the One who could save their soul? Yes. Do spiritual destinations matter? Yes. Does God give each person on earth the dignity of choice when it comes to where they will spend eternity? Yes.

As believers In Jesus, some of our decisions are vital and life-changing for other people’s lives. It is important to be open to where God leads. It is important to walk in the Spirit, so you don’t miss opportunities. Where you choose to go could have a direct impact on someone else’s eternity.

Jesus answered, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one comes to the Father, except by me. John 14:6

©Valerie Rumfelt