Go: A 40-Day Journey To The Never ReachedSample

Let John Be John

By: Jeff Hartensveld

What was it like when you first believed? What caused you to say yes to Christ? John walked in, saw the empty grave, the cloth neatly folded. John believed.  

Though John outran Peter, he hesitated to go in. Did he fear defiling himself by approaching a dead body? Did superstitions make him afraid? Then Peter plunged headlong into the tomb. When it comes to believing, one person’s courage can inspire others to follow. 

Who do you know on the edge of going in? What keeps them outside? A belief system? Fear? Are they waiting for someone to lead them? Might that someone be you?

People are like Peter and John; curious, searching, hesitant—they are our neighbors, co-workers, family, and friends. They also live in distant lands and long for an encounter with the risen Lord. They wait for someone to tell them about Jesus. 

In a moment John became the first person to understand Jesus had risen. That moment of belief is something people around the world still wait to experience.[BW1]  So, what will it take for these moments to take place? For starters, not everyone enters the same way or speed. 

We can’t rush the moment. We shouldn’t get upset with people like John, at the edge but hesitating. Sometimes in our rush to see people saved, we push them in, traumatizing them rather than letting them have their moment of belief. 

Peter went in one way; John another. People from many tribes and tongues wait to go in, but many are peering in to get a better look. 

Recently, I met a Muslim doctor. He told me, “I grew up near a church. I used to just get close and listen because our tradition wouldn’t let us go in.”

Something keeps millions from going in and witnessing the resurrection. Will you pray with me for those who still wait to go in for the first time? 

Go In!

How can your courage inspire someone else to believe? Someone you encounter may need to hear your testimony. Ask God today to lead you to someone who needs you to show courage, go all in, and tell them.

Pray

Never reached People Group: The Amblong of Vanuatu

Pray for a mighty move of the Spirit among the Amblong people that will open the hearts of many to Christ in your lifetime.

 

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