The night I met Jesus, it was love at first sight.
He called, I followed, and my life was forever changed. Even in those early days of discovery and growth, I knew it was never just about "me and Jesus." As a disciple, I was called to share His love with others and to help them become disciples, too.
Many years ago in prayer, the Lord gave me the image of running a marathon with Him. I saw young girls running behind me, then beside me—in rhythm with my pace—and then finally passing me, as other girls followed behind them. Although I didn’t know then what it all meant, I knew it was about discipleship.
Today, forty years later, as I read Saint Paul’s encouragement to Timothy (2 Timothy 3:10-17), it’s still about discipleship. This call isn’t just for Saints, clergy, consecrated, and those in ministry, it’s the path for ALL who profess Jesus as Lord.
If Saul, an unrelenting persecutor of Christians could be transformed into Saint Paul, a passionate disciple-maker, then the Lord can use me (and anyone who is willing) to help others become disciples, too.
Timothy followed Paul’s teaching, but more importantly he followed his way of life (literally he walked by his side), and he learned more by imitation than by instruction. As a disciple, it is important to understand and articulate my faith. But what is so powerfully effective is the invitation to accompany me on the path of discipleship.
As I model faith in my (imperfect) life, through trials, suffering, and endurance, Jesus revealed and glorified is calling others to Himself.
That early image of the marathon did not inspire me to become a runner, but it did motivate me to consistently ask Jesus, “Show me who You are calling me to invite into discipleship, and by the power of Your Spirit, make my life an authentic witness to Your Love.”
As a disciple I'm still running hard, and I'm delighted to say many of those young women are passing me by.
The night I met Jesus, it was love at first sight. // @bloverevolutionClick to tweet
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Debra Herbeck is a Jewish convert to the Church who serves extensively in youth and women’s ministry. She directs Pine Hills Girls Camp (for 34 years), and is the Founder and Director of Be Love Revolution, a ministry for high school girls. Find her books here. She and her husband have four children and eight grandchildren. She is the author of Blessed Conversations: Misericordia. Find out more about her here.
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