A Brand New Man (Part 3 of 3– February 5, 1986)

Pastor Ron led the way and turned on the back light in the sanctuary, giving the altar at the front only a faint glow. Jesse rounded the corner formed by the last pew and approached the altar. He watched the grown man become like a little child before God as he got on his knees, folded his hands and bowed his head. He’d never seen anything like it.

“Do you want me to pray with you Jesse?” he asked.

Jesse shook his head, already weeping.“No. I know what to say.” Pastor Ron didn’t know about his rehearsal with Richard. 

Emotion overcame Jesse as he prayed a simple and humble yet powerful prayer acknowledging his need for forgiveness. He confessed his belief in what Jesus did for him on the cross–dying to pay the price for his sin, then rising from the dead, and invited Jesus to be his Saviour and Lord.

Ron paused to take in the holy moment he was witnessing.

He had been startled by the knock at his office door. He didn’t normally leave the front door unlocked but he had today given the quick nature of his business in the office. He was completely blown away when he saw that it was Jesse. He’d been in a church more regularly with Kathy but gave Ron no reason to believe he was ready for anything more than sporadic church attendance.

And anytime he was there, he looked sullen and uninterested. Ron was sure it would take a lot more prayer and time. That afternoon Jesse had looked so somber than Ron was sure his marriage was in trouble, or worse, that maybe someone had died. 

But no, he was there to become a Christian. Ron was ecstatic. It was the most unbelievable thing I’ve ever witnessed. 

When Jesse was finished praying, Ron quietly reached over and placed his hand on Jesse’s shoulder and prayed: 

“Lord Jesus, would you seal this decision in his heart today and fill him with your Spirit. Give him the power to live the life that you God have created him to live.”

When Jesse stood up, Ron couldn’t help but stare. He was looking at a brand new man. Jesse looked like someone had just cut a 1000 lbs of weight loose from his shoulders. His countenance was bright. There was this visible peace all over his face. He looked relieved to have finally settled the matter of eternity with his Maker. He had finally surrendered and could not stop smiling. And Ron had just witnessed a miracle. 

***excerpt from upcoming book on the life and legacy of Jesse Morales***