Write it down. Read Luke 1:1-4. After Jesus died on the cross and was resurrected, the disciples carried out the mission of making disciples. They preached in the Temple in Jerusalem until the first great persecution caused the disciples to scatter. They continued to share the gospel wherever they went, first to the Jews who lived in the cities throughout the Roman Empire, then to the Gentiles (non-Jewish persons). About 30 years after the resurrection of Jesus, we believe that Peter and Paul were martyred in Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero. John Mark is recorded as being with Paul in Rome and we believe that he would have also visited Peter. John Mark, also known as Mark, is the first to write a gospel that survived to make it into the New Testament. Luke wrote his gospel about ten years after the Gospel of Mark was written, which puts it about 75-80 AD or 40 years after Jesus walked the dusty roads of Galilee. He explained to Theophilus, “Many have undertaken to draw up an account…I too decided to write an orderly account for you.” We see in Luke’s decision the importance of writing down the story of Jesus. Today might be the inspiration for you to write down your faith story. God is still at work today in your life. Your story is a testimony and has the possibility of encouraging someone today and perhaps centuries from now.

Prayer: Lord God on high, as you gave the Holy Spirit inspiration to the gospel writers, lead me to write a testimony that glorifies your name and inspires others to come to faith or be strengthened in their faith. Amen.