1/17/2011

Mark Moore is one of our favorite guest preachers at Crossroads. He is a dedicated Christian leader who seems to have a lot of colorful experiences in his wide exposure….

Mark was preaching on New Year’s Day at The Crossing in Las Vegas. He spoke that morning from Psalm 33 about “A New Song” - an encouraging message that, no matter your past, God can give you a new song - a new start. After the service, a man named Miguel wanted to share his story with Mark. 2011 had not been a good year for him: bad choices, dark despair, lost hope. It had been so bad, that Miguel didn’t want to face 2012.

He had decided to take his life that very Sunday morning, January 1. His gun was loaded and in his hand; but before he pulled the trigger, he had an overwhelming feeling that he should go to church. He walked in the doors of The Crossing that New Year’s Day, and as Mark preached, the powerful truth of God’s Word did what it always does. It found its way past all of Miguel’s defenses, penetrated his heart, and burst forth inside him with the light, life, and hope that are found in Christ. He came forward at the end of the service that morning, ready for a fresh start. Miguel reached into his pocket and pulled out a bullet. “I guess I won’t be needing this. Not really sure what I should do with it.” Mark spoke up quickly, “I’ll take it.” And he did. Then he prayed with Miguel, embraced him and left him in the good care of the church.

Now Mark has a bullet on his desk as a reminder of this truth: God’s Word changes lives! In Isaiah 55,“As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish . . . so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”

Pray with me…. Our Father, the greatest resource for a personal makeover is your Word. Pop psychology, cosmetic surgery and self-help programs are superficial and fall so far short of the inner transformation that is the results of an embrace of your grace. How many stories are out there like Miguel’s…. You have rescued innumerable souls with your love and salvation. May we never forget our own story about who we would have been had it not been for Jesus. In His strong name, amen.

Blessings,
Pastor Ken