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Men of Integrity, July/Aug 2000
New Life

Tuesday, August 22

Put Out the Welcome Mat


Key Bible Verse: Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again [or from above]" (John 3:3). Bonus Reading: John 3:1-21


Bud, an ex-Marine, was our no-nonsense plant superintendent. Shortly before retirement, he was hospitalized with a bronchial infection. As I entered his room, I sensed his "I'm-still-in-charge" demeanor was gone. I'd hardly said hello when Bud blurted out, "John, I'm worried."

"Look," I said, "they'll get on top of this infection … "

"No," he cut me off, "that's not my concern. I've been thinking since I got in here. I'm not sure things are right between God and me."

"Bud," I said, shifting gears, "Would you like to be certain of your relationship with the Lord?"

"I really would."

So we talked about how sin has separated us from God and how Jesus died for us on the cross, providing a way for our relationship with God to be restored—if we're willing.

"So what do I do?" "You've got to put out the welcome mat. The Lord won't force you to do anything. But if you ask Him, He's more than willing to come to you. He'll become your closest friend."

Bud's simple prayer of acceptance came from his heart. "John," he said, his eyes misty, "this is probably the most important thing I've ever done."

—John D. Beckett in Loving Monday

Personal Challenge:

  • Do you know God? Lay out the welcome mat today.


Thought to Apply: If there are a thousand steps between us and God, He will take all but one. He will leave the final one for us.

MAX LUCADO (Texas pastor)

Credits: Adapted from— Tuesday: Loving Monday (InterVarsity, 1998)


Copyright © 2000 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity. For reprint information click here.
July/August 2000, August 22, 2000


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