Be a "Power Pole," Sharing His Love With Others

By Dr. Sheila Schuller Coleman

One night years ago during high school youth group, we discussed the high price Christ paid for us through death so we could live forever. Surrounded by friends, I came to the full realization-and bittersweet majesty-that Jesus had died for ME! If you or I had been the only person to believe in him, he would still have made the sacrifice so that you or I could live abundantly on earth and eternally in heaven.

Today, as I remember what he did for me and for you, I envision the cross as his "power pole" from which he emits the loving promise of eternal life straight into hearts that are open to believe. Have you made that link with Jesus? Have you allowed that promise to bond his heart to yours? If so, you may want to help others connect with Jesus in the same way.

It really isn't hard to share about Jesus. You don't need to moralize or coerce, but simply share with others a personal story about how Jesus touched your heart or changed your life, something similar to the story I shared about my revelation during youth group.

As you do, in many cases their curiosity will open the door for you to take the next step-to invite them to church or Bible study, or to pray with them as they accept Jesus into their lives.

The Psalmist speaks of his excitement about sharing with others the truth about God when he said, "Since my youth, O God, you have taught me, and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds . . . I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come" (Psalm 71:17-18b, NIV).

Like the Psalmist, you can become a "power pole"-connected to the cross of Jesus on one end and to your friends and loved ones on the other end-as you share the stories of his "marvelous deeds," enabling them to accept a new and eternal life filled with his power through hope, grace and love . . . forever!

The Hour of Power: Lifting Hearts on Television for 40 Years

God has helped the Hour of Power achieve each milestone and face every circumstance over the past 40 years of ministry. The number 40 holds special meaning and significance in the Bible, too, where 40 often signifies a time of preparation with a promise of bigger things to come.

- The flood came as the rain fell on Noah's ark for 40 days and 40 nights…and then came a rainbow.

- God led the Israelites in the wilderness for 40 years before he gave them the Promised Land.

- Jesus fasted and prayed alone in the wilderness for 40 days before he began his earthly ministry.

- After Christ's crucifixion and resurrection, he was seen throughout his community for 40 days.

Today, the Hour of Power optimistically looks toward the future, believing with all our hearts that, as God’s people provide the lifting power necessary to keep this ministry moving forward, we will see glorious possibilities unfold.

So celebrate with us as we share with you in this and upcoming 2010 PowerLines little-known details, heartwarming stories, and turning-point events from the Hour of Power's 40-year history. May they inspire you to pray for, and continue to be part of, America's Positive Television Church to the World for many years to come!