The Miraculous Meeting

One chilly morning I hummed a hymn as I carefully poured water into the flower pots out front. When I reached the flowers by the shed, a gentleman working on the fence of the neighbor’s house respectfully greeted me. “Are you a Christian?” “Yes,” I replied. “Why do you ask?” “I really like that song you’re singing. It’s lovely.” I looked at the neatly dressed man in front of me and noticed his immaculate white shirt, the first three buttons unbuttoned, under which shone a thick gold necklace. Without thinking, I asked him, “But how do you know this song?” “Well, I’m Orthodox, but I’ve visited several Protestant churches.

I liked it a lot, especially the music, and when I heard you humming, I recognized the tune. Which one do you belong to?” “I’m a Seventh-day Adventist. That is, I worship God on Saturday.” “Yeah, I know. I like that you Adventists talk a lot about Jesus and faith in God.” That evening, I told my husband about our conversation, and with his practical turn of mind, he asked if I had given the man any literature. I had not thought of it, even though I frequently buy books to hand out to people. I selected a book and prayed he had not finished working in my neighbor’s yard. I also found a Bible and went to the neighbor’s fence.

He was still at work. “It’s good to see you again. I’d like to give you a book. It contains many aspects of my faith. Do you have a Bible?” “No, I don’t, though I would very much like one.” I gave him the Bible and said, “I hope it will bring you joy and light.” He thanked me and promised to read it and visit our church. He clutched the books to his chest and looked so happy. My dear sister, let us share the joy of salvation with someone today. It could change their lives, and we will be so blessed!

Elena Petrescu