Judy's Journal

Smiles & Angels Rejoicing

Luke 15:10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God 

over one sinner that repenteth. 

     For the past several months a couple of older teens have been coming to church.  Sometimes there are even three or four but two have remained faithful.  They are always dressed in black, their hair is black, their nails are black – and they NEVER smile. We believe that one of the men in our church which owns several second-hand stores may have hired them and then required them to be in church. 

     Several of our young ladies have tried to befriend them, tried to witness to them but they didn’t seem interested.  They slip in after church starts and leave as soon as the last amen is said.  However, last week the two girl – Ilona & Diana hung around and told one of our young ladies that they were interested in being saved but not today.  These two girls have been heavy on our hearts and we have been praying for them but now we began to pray more earnestly.

    Sunday came and we began looking – hoping.  About 10 minutes into the service, the two girls – dressed in black slipped into the back row.  During the invitation one of our young ladies went to talk with them but she came back and shook her head to me – as if they are not ready.   After church was over, I saw them in the back talking with Mesha.  I approached them and asked if they wanted to be saved today.  They both shook their heads yes. Hallelujah!  I felt like shouting.

     We went into the back room and I began going through the Roman's Road with them.  I had them read each verse out loud.   As we wandered down the Roman’s trail… I noticed the girls had tears in their eyes.  I saw a change in each face.  We read John 3:16 and I told them of God’s love for them individually.  Tears dropped down Diana’s face.   I had chill bumps up my arms… and I just kept praying that God would work a work that only HE could do.  A few minutes later, both girls bowed their heads and asked the Lord to forgive their sins and come into their hearts and save them.  They raised their heads and smiled - SUCH beautiful smiles.  These girls had never smiled before in our church.  We hugged.   

     They came back into the auditorium and told my husband what had happened.  Bob asked if they had died yesterday, where would they go.  They both said, “Hell”…. And if you die tomorrow where will you go? “ HEAVEN !”.   And they smiled again. 

     Praise the Lord that Jesus saves and changes.  I know that Satan will be on the attack for these two girls this week – they have been in his clutches way too long!   Ilona & Diana needs your prayer.