Love to Tell the Story

The pastor under whose leadership I received baptism loved to sing, "I Love to Tell the Story." Although he stood back from his microphone, his exuberant singing always led that hymn. He also did an excellent job of telling stories when preaching and seemed to have a story for everything. His stories did not illustrate the point; they were the point.

A few weeks ago our program and worship staff spent a day on retreat. During an exercise in which we pondered the present and future of our congregation we asked whether we have a story to tell. Our reflection quickly pointed to numerous stories: stories about hunger ministries and comfort given to stressed families; stories of mission and educational experiences; stories of spiritual encounter and growth; stories that led saints to and immersed them in our congregation. We also noted that we enjoy telling stories. During Advent we look forward to hearing saints from our congregation share Advent and Christmas memories. As elders offer the opening devotions for Session meetings, more and more of them are telling stories about themselves and their faith journey. Many of us recall Moments for Mission during stewardship campaigns that told stories of discovering the joys of giving. On mission trips and before (and during) other events we often share stories that provide glimpses into our identities. Indeed, do we ever gather without having someone tell a story?

How can we provide more opportunities for more of us to share our stories? Since we tell stories of Christmas during Advent, could we find saints to share stories of new life during Easter? During stewardship campaigns, do we need more facts and figures or more personal narratives about life in our congregation? During our Annual Congregational Meeting, would we willingly stay together a little longer to hear stories about how our ministries affect others and each other? Please share your ideas and suggestions.

When we tell our stories we do something that most Presbyterians think Presbyterians cannot or will not do. We evangelize. The Greek verb euangelizo essentially means "to bring the good news." As we share favored memories with each other, we bring each other good news from our life experiences. As we tell other people stories about worshiping, learning, caring, and serving together in our ministries, we bring them good news about faith and life in a community of faith. No one needs to have a theology degree - just a glimpse into the way our connections with each other connect us with God, life, wonder, love and praise.

Each of us has many stories to tell. Look for places to tell them. Telling the story helps us to relive the memory and it adds to our shared story of life with God and each other. Yes, storytelling takes a little time - but perhaps it also offers timeless blessings.

Love to tell the story, saints.

LP