Only A Single Spark
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesThe story is told of a young man who was one day driving an old worn-out car on a desolate road in a downpour. All of a sudden, the engine died. As he coasted to the side of the road, a car happened to be coming down the road. The driver stopped, got out of his car, and asked the young man what was wrong.
The stranger opened the hood, tinkered with something, and signaled the young man to turn the ignition key. When the car started, the amazed young man shouted, “Thanks, I was afraid the engine had failed for the last time.”
The stranger replied, “Every car has at least one more start in it if you can get a spark. The same principle applies to people. Someday you will have occasion to apply this knowledge. Remember, as long as a single spark of life remains, it’s not too late for anyone to make a fresh start.”
Years later, this once-stranded driver became a minister to inmates in a large prison. He told them the above story of the stranger who had helped him get his old worn-out car started so many years ago, and the wisdom he shared:
“Remember, as long as a single spark of life remains, it’s not too late for anyone to make a fresh start.”
Just as God gave Manasseh a new start when he repented (2 Chronicles 33:11-13), He can give us a new start as well.
Dear reader, if your engine [life] has seemingly failed — don’t despair! Through godly repentance, you can begin again (2 Corinthians 7:8-10; cf. 2 Samuel 12:1-14).
Remember, “As long as a single spark of life remains, it’s not too late to make a fresh start.”