Storyline Winter 2019

y Heather Wile
"Your story matters because you matter
to God and to us. "
SHARE YOUR STORY
I
love story and the power of story to change lives. There’s something even more powerful about a story based on true
events and real people. There’s greater emotional connection with a true story.
On a recent vacation with my husband, we checked into a hotel in Anaheim late enough that the night manager was on
duty to receive us. You know how Norman Rockwell used to represent people with such interesting character, not just
on their faces and expressions but so many details depicted through his paintings? Well, this older, rounded-shouldered
man was just one of those kinds of “characters” that Rockwell would have loved to depict. Meeting him piqued my
interest … What was his story? A stout, barreled-chested fellow, missing more than a couple teeth, and jet black hair
(no judgement, but he was definitely in his 70’s) … I would guess because of his dark olive skin that his ethnicity was
Mediterranean – Italian or Greek. Though the aging process had obviously taken a toll on his body, he was sharply
dressed in a tailored grey pin-striped suit, crisp white shirt, and snappy red silk tie. What was his story? Where was he
from? What were the details, the events, the relationships that led to the sum total of the gentleman standing in front of
me?
We each have a story … a story that answers these questions and more. Our stories may begin from our earliest
memories – or maybe you tell your story from the day you were born. Perhaps your story has great significance to you
because of your lineage and family history. God knows your story from the beginning of eternity …
He knew and loved you before you were born. He knew the struggles you would face; He knew the family
you’d be born into, the parent(s) that would raise you, the school choices and friend choices you would make, the other
choices you’ve made along the way. He knew and gave you your gifts, your passions, your temperament. He has always
been there even if you didn’t know it.
The part of your story we love to write about, hear about, and share about here at FAC is where God intersects with your
life. What was your life like before you knew He loved you? What people or events did He use to draw you to Himself?
Are you experiencing abundant life since you met Jesus? What are your struggles and how do you keep pressing forward
and holding on to Christ?
Without a doubt it’s these stories that continue to spur us on, encourage us, and strengthen our faith as people just like
you tell your stories of the goodness and faithfulness of God. When we tell our stories we truly do help each other be
“overcomers.” Your story matters … It matters to others who are struggling and need to know they’re not alone in their
journey. It matters because your story brings hope! It matters because we are responsible for one another.
Our very first edition of Storyline was published April 2012 and since then hundreds of stories have been told. Thanks to
so many of you who have been vulnerable and bravely testified. We are richer for it. •
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