The night Merlin Richard Berry prayed to receive Christ as Savior over one week ago (see The Lambs Book Of Life), I invited him to my mothers memorial service that would be one week from that day. I thought because he didn't know her or live in her community, that he would forget...remember, he is 88 and one half years old! :-) In fact I thought I would never see him again this side of Heaven.

 

While standing at the door greeting the multitude of people that beautiful day of the service, I was stunned to see Richard walk in! He had a fantastic smile on his face and hugged me so tight! The very first thing I said to him with glee in my voice was this; "Merlin Richard Berry...where are you going to go when you die?" He quickly said,  "Heaven, Patty, Heaven!"

 

As we shared the joy of laughter, I took his hand and brought him over to meet my sister Christine and her husband Nick. They were so blessed to meet this 88 and one half year old brother that they had heard about, and Nick said, "Welcome to the family of God Brother!" Richard, with his radiant smiling face said, "Thank you! Patty brought me to the door!"

 

My heart melted with gratitude and humility that God would use this broken vessel, to bring a soul to the doors of Heaven. I can't think of anything greater on this earth, than to lead a soul to Christ...there are no words to describe the feelings. My sister Christine told me that it was a privilege...and I looked up that word because that's how I felt, privileged.... "a special advantage, permission, a benefit granted to, a right...a right held as a status of rank"

 

I deserve nothing outside of Christ, I deserve death for my sins, but He has lifted me up, placed my feet on the Rock, and put a new song in my heart! He has given me a special advantage, permission, and granted me the right, with status of rank in His army, so that I, a sinner saved by grace, might lead others to...

 

Heavens Door!

 

Love,

Patty