October 17th, 2007
The Explanation
Are you ready for the explanation? hehe. I wasn’t sure how to include both the story and the explanation for its creation in one blog, so this is my solution. Thank you for reading this too!!
I have been asked to speak at Montrose Bible Conference on November 3rd. That weekend 130 women will come to the Bible Conference in order quilt together. Apparently, every year they have a speaker come to their quilting weekend on Saturday morning to present the gospel (this is one of their evangelistic outreaches). This year they called me. Although I am very excited about this opportunity to share the gospel, I’m also very nervous.
Now, I will make it very clear that I am NOT a quilter! I went online and also talked with Joanne to learn terms, and I have sewed before, but never an actual large quilt. Anyway, one idea I had was to write a parable-type story that the women may understand. My actual “talk” will also include explanation (including the gospel), introduction of me etc. etc. etc.
I put this story “out there” for you to read because I want your feedback. Since I just wrote it this morning, it is not in finished-polished form, but I want to hear your ideas before I spend more time on it. I know some of you call me, talk with me face to face, or email me with comments instead of leaving them here. That’s fine!! What I want are comments!
For instance, did you understand it? Were there any sections that needed to be changed? Any additions you would put in? Wrong (or good) word choice? Obviously I won’t be able to use everyone’s suggestions, but I would like feedback to know your opinion if I should use the story or not etc.
My other request? I deeplly desire your prayers. I pray that God would be preparing the hearts of those who will attend, and that He will give me words to say. Only God can reach the women there – I know that he is the one who needs to “move” them. And, I only want to speak his words. Nothing coming from me means a thing – it all needs to be from him.
So, thank you for praying, thank you for your feedback. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!!!
October 19th, 2007 at 1:23 pm
Tami,
I wouldn’t change much - I totally understood it and I too, don’t know anything about quilting but it seemed to capture the whole idea of quilting. The only thing that struck me or caused me to stop - was God’s statement at the end of the story when He told the woman she “could use the quilt”. I’m not sure why but I think that if you could say that differently (but I don’t know how) it might be better taken…….I don’t know. Also, I have always used a real-life sample of my own attempt at needle point as an example of how “messy and full of mistakes” my own handiwork is (I show the back) and then I show the front side as to how God can even take our messes and mistakes and turn them into something beautiful for His Glory. It has always served as a symbol and a reminder to me that I can take risks and make mistakes as long as I always keep Him first in my heart and take those risks for the right reason - His Glory. Maybe you could add something more about mistakes……but really it’s very good just as it is and definitely tells a terrific story and I think it would be perfect for a quilting group.
Wow - you are an incredible writer (or should I say, God has definitely given you the gift to write
I will be praying for you and for the group coming that God will be glorified through you and your presentation that day! I bet He’s smiling down at you and your willingness to serve Him!
Love & Peace,
Robin
October 19th, 2007 at 4:21 pm
Robin, Thanks for your feedback! I will think about the ending, etc. Thanks I appreciate it!