Michelle’s Story

I recently heard from Joyce, a former co-worker of mine. Even though we had worked together for 30+ years, we really hadn’t kept in touch much after my retirement except occasionally through Facebook. One night – while I was working at a networking event – I noticed Joyce had called. She left a message saying she wasn’t doing well and was in a bad place mentally as she recently lost her husband of 50+ years. She also said that she really wanted to speak with me.

When I called her back, we talked for two hours and I listened. Joyce knew I had gone through a lot of grief, too, after losing both parents and an aunt who was very dear to me. She saw that I had found a way to move forward in life with gratitude and appreciation for all God has given me. Joyce said, “You have always been like my angel on earth… always there for me and concerned for my well-being.” She shared that her husband was ready to “go” as he was tired of the pain and suffering. Even though they had never attended church together, Joyce’s husband told her, “You need to find Jesus. I have found Him and I know that I’m going to heaven. I want you to be there with me, too, one day.”

Joyce then asked me, “Do you know about Jesus? I have a Bible, but I’ve never really read it.” Given my Anna’s Circle training, I was excited that God had prepared me for this moment and began to talk with her about salvation. I shared how important faith in Jesus is to get through the tough times. Then I asked Joyce, “Would you like to say ‘Yes’ to Jesus and invite him into your heart tonight?” She didn’t hesitate in responding, “Yes! Absolutely. I would love to.” So, I said, “I’m going to pray a prayer and have you repeat the words after me. It’s called the sinner’s prayer inviting Jesus to be the Lord and Savior of your life.” Joyce was ready! We walked through the steps of salvation, prayed together, and she welcomed Jesus into her heart. With tears of joy Joyce said, “Now I know I will see my husband again in heaven.”

Joyce was battling deep depression, but now has hope in Christ. I continue to send her encouraging Scripture and resources to help her grow in her faith journey; and I am so grateful that of all the people Joyce knows, she chose to reach out to me that evening. I have just finished the Anna’s Circle training and feel equipped with the tools I need to share the Gospel. God used Anna’s Circle to prepare me to invite Joyce to say “Yes” to Jesus and I am grateful.