Why Story … STILL … Matters!

It is through parable that Jesus taught! Deeply instilled into the understanding of Jesus are many parables. Jesus used illustration in nearly every opportunity he had to tell about his mission, purpose, and principles for living. Even miracles became an illustration that helped unveil for the world and us today about the Kingdom of Heaven. 

Story STILL matters. (Emphasis added.) 

It is very important for story you’ll be a part of the witness of the gospel. People can relate to story because they can see themselves in relevant ways. To tell us story gives the listener the ability to imagine and vision in their own minds as well as to find themselves connected through emotion and personal experiences.

Whether we’re trying to get our point across or simply trying to convey a message, story must underpin the very concept of our message. Whether preaching or teaching or making a presentation, story must be included. It goes beyond, just simply an illustration, but it does include the capacity for a listener to better understand the message you are trying to communicate.

Those in marketing know this. Those that popularize the streaming movie platforms and even social media no the value of human connection through story. 

So it’s here when I need to pause and give you time to reflect through a story. 

Having served in several ministries, I am always amazed at how God chooses to work in the lives of others. Thankfully, I get to be able to witness the incredible and miraculous of those who have found Jesus right in front of me.

In my jail ministry, I was witness to God’s grace In an inmate who was held in jail pending charges and trial with the shooting of a police officer. At the trial, the officers testified that he was off duty, yet, he identified  himself as a policeman. The inmate prisoner was seated right in front of him. The officers stated that the gun was fired during the struggle. 

The officer, though seriously injured was not killed. Nevertheless, his injuries left him a paraplegic. His inability to walk made life very difficult. Yet, neither one of the men knew Jesus at the time of the altercation but, God was doing a spiritual work in both of their lives. The young man who was on trial and seated in my class at the jail found Jesus for the first time and was growing dramatically both in my class and became a leader as he defended his case in the courts. He was not trying to get out of the responsibility of the officers injury, yet, he was hoping that he would be able to tell his story to others about God‘s grace.

When it came to the court case and trial, the Lord was working in the officers part as well. Even though the police officer would never walk again, he felt that when he came to God and his life was transformed that he should forgive the inmate. In fact, not only did he forgive, but he became a witness for the defense of the inmate. He testified that he could learn to forgive, and that part of the situation that happened was the result of a deliberate decision on his part to wrestle with housing, his own injury.

As a result of the testimony of the officer, the inmate received a lighter sentence. The police officer and the inmate  became friends. Both of them came to realize that it was God‘s grace that saved their soul. Circumstances that led up to both a prison sentence and a permanent disability was for God‘s glory, and through that circumstance, they both became followers of Jesus Christ.

Story theme remains, like a thread, woven throughout each experience we have. God proves that He can redeem even the most difficult of experiences. It is in that redemption that we find a new purpose and meaning to our story.

Nevertheless, I learned that story is primarily how people connect. Details are crucial in building a better citizen and cultivating hope in my faith. Although moving stories connect, trust must be established to maintain the repeatable experiences. As I met with my objectives, I remember those who stood out were remembered longer!

What is the point if this article? 

All of us have a story and all of us can tell a story. It’s remarkable to think that with all of the technology and information that we have, a simple story conveys more to the heart and mind that any amount of information could.

Story matters because it is transformational, not just informational. Story matters because it is filled with emotion and if told correctly will leave the experience into the very be of those who read it or even see it in a film or drama production.

I encourage everyone to look for a redemptive thread in their story. Something that God is willing to do or is working toward no matter the hardship and difficulty or drama of your personal experience.

It is in your story, but you can give testimony. Story STILL matters. While we have facts and figures, it is in story that we come to a deeper understanding both emotionally and intellectually. Story is transformational not just informational. Story is inspirational.