Agents of Change

“Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness, instead, rebuke and expose them. It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. But when the light shines on them, it becomes clear how evil these things are.” Ephesians 5:11-13 NLT


Standing in the park amidst the lush green rain forest, one would never suspect that an ugly sore festered nearby just under the radar of everyday life. Surrounding this beautiful urban forest, the community embraced a peaceful, friendly lifestyle but ignored the source of the neighborhood’s infection, which quietly seeped the pollution of its wickedness. As the residents followed the rhythm of their daily lives, God looked down upon this area only to sense the anger building within His gut. With a determined clap of His hands, He declared, “It’s time to end this evil. I know just the right family to be my agents of change. Today, I am moving them into this neighborhood.”

That was back in 1991 and the unsuspecting family was mine! Over the next four years, God orchestrated both financial and spiritual changes in our lives. First, economic struggles through a recession and job loss culminated with the purchase of a local video rental store. Then, He led us from a spiritual wasteland to Christian commitment. Yes, we became believers in Jesus Christ! Eager to learn how to walk a God-honouring life, we attended church just minutes from our home. Within months, wanting to take on full membership in this local church, we signed up for the required baptism. But first: the interview. The church leaders met with us, needing to confirm our conversions and our desire to lead a life pleasing to God. Then they asked the question: “What about the adult XXX-rated videos at your store that you rent and sell?” Whoa! That festering sore in our neighborhood was IN OUR STORE! “Oh, that section was there when we bought the store. It’s just part of the business,” we explained matter-of-factly. Gently, they explained the perils and sinfulness of pornography. “Oh, I see,” we said, “we’ll think about that.” God’s light shone upon us revealing the changes we needed to make. Learning that every facet of a Christian’s life must reflect His values, we quickly closed that section of our store in time for our baptisms.

Later, we learned that church members had been praying for the removal of the pornography since the store opened in 1981, just steps from the church. Now, along with the smiles on their faces, God’s smile was broad as He celebrated His victory over this evil in our neighbourhood. As God’s light shone brighter upon us, we yielded to His way becoming His agents of change fulfilling His purposes for His Kingdom!

Lord, thank you for your Spirit in us who reveals our sinful ways. Thank you for your forgiveness that cleanses us from guilt and penalty. Lord, continue to guide us along your straight and narrow path. Amen.