My Friend Jack

         -A Conversation of Grace

Jack was our across-the-street neighbor and a man of many talents, experience, and wisdom. He is one of the most learned and well traveled men I know, he has read all of the great books of historic and contemporary consequence, and he uses quotes from the ancient Greeks and poets, like Yeats, to make his point. Jack is a natural athlete who played minor-league baseball and began skiing at 65 just to try something different. Now at 88, after a stroke and a heart attack, he teaches golf and continues his profession as a master wood-turner and cabinet maker. Jack is the only one I know who can engage anyone from any walk-of-life on any subject. Usually, people leave an encounter feeling like they just met someone who knew at least as much, if not more, than them on that particular topic. Jack quit school in the eighth grade.

We moved from Jack’s neighborhood some years ago, and it was nice to see him at another friend’s party in August where he asked me to visit when I had time. A few weeks later, on my way to his house, I realized that Jack and I had never talked about God. With that thought in mind, I wondered if the Holy Spirit was nudging me a bit and then realized that indeed it was an opportunity to share my faith. I said a quick prayer asking for help to be a good listener, yet at the same time to be a bold witness.

The opportunity came after an hour or so of reminiscing. He mentioned sadly how he missed the company of people and especially a lady friend who had died a few years ago – how happy he had been, but now she was gone. Jack had only occasionally attended church and had not been in several years. I said simply that Jesus was my best friend, that he was always there for me, and that in times of loneliness, I could count on him. I shared, too, that God made us for all time; not just this time on earth, but for eternity.

I left soon after, not really knowing how Jack took my words. I felt good though, knowing that I had done what I was supposed to do and that Jack was in the hands of the Holy Spirit. Please join me in praying that Jack’s heart will be opened to hear the Good News.

Do you have a personal witnessing experience you would like to share with others? Please contact Bill Pfancuff.