Christian Living

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Arms Of Christ
©
by

Stephen A. Peterson


It was a beautiful, crisp, fall afternoon in Bloomington, Indiana in 1966 on the campus of Indiana University. Chris, a pledge in Sigma Pi Fraternity, sat on a couch in the living room area of the house all alone. Although a pledge in an esteemed campus fraternity, Chris had built walls around himself to keep people away by his aggressive behavior and aloof demeanor. Chris was recognized as one of the top twenty scholars on campus with a Freshman grade point average of 4.00 of a possible 4.00 having taken and achieving A pluses in Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry. In spite of demonstrated academic excellence, Chris felt unworthy.

Then one day, at another pledge’s encouragement, Chris gathered enough courage to attend a Bible study discussion session at Saint Charles Borromero Church just off campus. The warmth, openness, and demonstration of unconditional love among the participants both by non-Catholics and Catholics touched Chris deeply. Something seemed to break loose within his heart. All the long-buried hurts and pent-up emotions of his life came forth in a furry of silent tears. Then, suddenly, he stopped crying, appalled to realize that he had exposed himself away from the silence of his room and had broken down in the presence of others. What would everyone think of him? Chris seemed to want to get up to run away and hide in shame.

It was at that very moment that a young man, seemingly another student, walked over, put his arms around Chris and said, “Jesus is with you and in you. He knows what hurts and pains you. His arms are around you at this very moment to welcome you to Himself as His own.” It was the turning point in Chris’ life.

Do you know anyone who needs to be wrapped in the arms of Jesus Christ this day? Jesus would love your arms!! He is calling you! Would you let Him use your arms?

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