Sharing Our Stories
March 17, 2020 | Jaci Miller
Some years ago, the cable channel, AMC, developed a tag line that ran in all their promo spots: “Story Matters Here.”
I always liked that line. Because who doesn’t love a good story? From the time we’re children, curled up with picture books and Highlights Magazines, to adults riveted by breaking news or a summer blockbuster, we care about stories.
As a young girl, my wise grandmother gave me The Ordinary Princess by M.M. Kaye, a fairy-tale novel about a princess struggling from a lack of typical princess qualities—beauty, gracefulness, even an elegant name. Yet her wit, good sense, geniality and independence brought her to a happy place.
This break from traditional types broke some serious ground in the early 80s. I begged my parents to read the book again and again. After learning to read for myself, I pored over it until the cover hung in tatters. To an awkward kid like me, that story mattered. It still matters. (In fact, it rests on my headboard shelf.)
Story pulls us inside someone else’s world, providing a fascinating new perspective. At the same time, it reminds us that we aren’t alone in our fears and our struggles, that others have traversed the same wild territory. Story helps us empathize. It enlightens, encourages, informs, inspires.
So when Psalm 107 tells us, “Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story,” we know a serious declaration has been spoken, one serving an important purpose.
The psalm speaks of those in wastelands, in darkness, in rebellion, in the desert, at sea, and reflects on what God did for them. That psalm concludes by saying, “Let the one who is wise … ponder the loving deeds of the Lord.”
Are we pondering?
Thinking over the loving deeds of the Lord highlights His character. We see Him more clearly. And this draws us closer to God. Then, sharing these stories draws others to God. Drawing closer to God—kind of the goal of the Gospel, right?
Story sharing is Kingdom work.
On the other end of our God stories lies a listener. Someone who may need to learn empathy, to be enlightened, encouraged, informed, or inspired. Who may need to draw closer to God.
At The Vineyard, story matters here. Your story. Of God’s love.
What has God done in your life? How can you share your story with others?
Do you possess a gift with the written word? The Vineyard Blog Team invites you to apply to this team and begin sharing your story through our posts!