Fall 2003
Becoming Living Epistles
Nancy Warner

DeVern Fromke tells a story in his book, “No Other Foundation,” of a young Bible School student, who was eager to preach. He was doing his internship with a local pastor, and finally heard the words he had been waiting for, “Come, and we will preach today.”

Excited, the young intern joyfully went with the pastor. Walking through the narrow streets of the town, the pastor gave a coin to a beggar. He spoke a word of sympathy to the widow, and he dried the tears of a weeping child. Then they turned to go back to the Church.

Disappointed, the young student asked, “But when are we going to preach?” The pastor answered, “We have been preaching all this time.”

Paul speaks of us, as being an “Epistle … known and read of all men.” (2 Corinthians 3:2). Our lives are to be witnesses, a “book” that can be both seen and read, of the Lord’s love toward mankind. Our being this “witness” is an expression of the high calling of God, resting upon our lives, no matter how the sermon might have been preached.

There are some who are anxious to preach before a crowd of people, or to serve when the applause of man is forthcoming, and at times, the world seems to elevate these. But, there are those who are known by God, whom the Lord is bringing forth; those who are simply “willing” - willing to give their lives to loving others, to single out that “one” who is down and discouraged, to give them a loving touch, or a caring word. These are “living epistles” that can be read by all men.

There is a love and peace that emanates from these people. It has nothing to do with their fancy words, but rather, something that has been worked into their hearts through the choices they have made. Regardless of what they are doing, when you are with them, you are both ministered to and feel love. You see and hear Jesus.

First and foremost, we are to give ourselves to the Lord. It is His presence that makes the difference, whether we are speaking, or just giving a smile. It is His presence that touches hearts and changes lives. As we abide in Him, then as “living epistles,” we can give ourselves to others, even as Christ gave Himself for us. It does not matter if we are seen or appreciated. The Lord sees, and the Lord cares.

This is God’s desire for us, that we abide in Christ, so His life can be seen through us. This dimension of who Christ is, will absolutely transform us. As true intercessors, we will then be willing to give our lives, whether it be in word or in deed, that the ministry of the Holy Spirit may come forth, meeting the needs of others.

“Lord, we desire to love like You love. Lord, we desire to have Your heart
of love and compassion toward others. Touch us, Lord, I pray. And help
us to become true givers, acceptable and pleasing in your sight – Epistles
known by You, and read by others, that You may have all the glory.”