Dear friends,

     I want to tell you a story.
     Once there was a gathering in which a noted actor was called to speak.  He stood, cleared his throat, and recited the 23rd Psalm.  His speech was perfectly clear - and was filled with passion and drama.  When he finished, the room was filled with applause.
     Then, an elderly man stepped forward, and proceeded to recite the same words.  When he finished, there was not a sound in the room.  But nearly every eye was filled with tears.  Someone asked the actor what the difference had been.  "Well, you see," he said, "There's no doubt that I know the 23rd Psalm backwards and forwards.  But this man here, well, he knows the Shepherd."
     So let me ask:  do you know the Shepherd?  Do you have a personal relationship with him?
     You may say, "Oh, I know about Jesus."  Well, to know about someone and to know someone personally are two different things.
     Maybe you're unsure about what to believe.  Maybe you're searching for answers.  Maybe you're wondering what you could possibly do to change your life's direction.  Maybe you even feel like life is getting out of control.
     If you'd like to know Jesus better - if you'd like to have a personal relationship with him as your Savior - then simply pray this prayer: 
     Lord Jesus,
     I recognize that I've done wrong in my life.  I know that I've done things to separate me from you and those around me.  Only you can save me.  And I believe that you did just that.  I believe that you died on a cross, carrying my sins.  And you rose again, and are now in heaven.  Claim me as one of your own, Lord.  And write my name in your Book of Life, so that I may live forever in heaven with you.  In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
     It's that simple.  No whistles and bells.  No fireworks.  But I can tell you this - there are angels in heaven rejoicing right now!  Really!  If you just prayed this prayer, then you now know the Shepherd.  He will live in you and through you.  If you let him, he will direct your life and give you more peace, joy, and blessing than you can imagine! 
     And please give me a call to let me know.  I want to rejoice, too!  We can grow together in our faith.  After all, we have the same Shepherd!
     Rejoicing with you,

     Pastor Jon West

     P.S.  Now go and share this with a friend or family member.  Ask if they know Jesus as their Savior.  Go ahead, let your guard down.  Invite them to pray the same prayer.