Maggie's Story
Pastor Jon Leach
On this Valentine's Day, it seems only appropriate to talk about love. That's what Maggie wanted—to feel loved. But in her quest for the perfect relationship, she discovered she was a part of the truest love story ever written:
Everyone wants to be loved. I’m no different. I’ve had several relationships along the way, but nothing seemed to last. I just needed a good guy who would love me for who I am. A friend encouraged me to check out a Christian dating site. I was a little reluctant, but I tried it and was surprised. It was here I found Brad. He really seemed to care. We met a few times in person and really hit it off. When he proposed, I accepted. We seemed to have so much in common—plus we were both Christian! Or, at least, that’s what I thought. I soon learned Brad was Mormon. I knew Mormons had different teachings, but I didn’t realize how far apart they really are!
The more I studied, the more I realized Mormonism is not a path to God. I didn’t know what to do. I was so conflicted. I spent most nights crying myself to sleep. I had fallen in love with Brad and was already picturing the rest of our lives together. But then I remembered Jesus’ words, “What good will it be to gain the world, yet forfeit your soul?” How could I invest so much love in someone who would never end up joining me in heaven? What if he pulled me away from God’s love? It took all the courage I had, but I returned the ring. I told Brad, “As much as I love you, you need to know God’s love.”
I invited Brad to begin attending Bible study with me…and he accepted! I now see this as an incredible witnessing opportunity. I love watching Brad learn more about all that Jesus has already done for him. Right now, we’re just good friends. Perhaps, as God works on his heart, our relationship might also grow. We’ll see. But, an amazing thing happened to me along the way. For years, I was looking for someone who would love me for who I am. I didn’t find him on a dating website. Instead, I’ve found him on the pages of the Bible.
I now see it as an amazing love story with an incredible ending. God wrote me into his story.
Blog used by permission of Truth in Love Ministry. For more information, visit tilm.org