We invite you to write your #JesusChangedMyLife story.
The practice of summarizing your story into 60 seconds can be a difficult and beneficial one. Maybe you’ve believed in Jesus for a long time, but you’ve never articulated your story in a succinct way. Our goals in this practice are three-fold (and in this order):
Your personal benefit - Working through what Jesus has done in your life and how that changes the way you live. It will be much easier to share your story with others after you have worked through that story.
Our church’s benefit - We are going to ask 3-4 people to share their stories on Easter morning. It is very encouraging to hear how Jesus has changed others lives, and this is a way that we can all glorify God together on Easter morning.
The world’s benefit - By sharing your story on social media, you have the opportunity to proclaim the good news of Jesus by testifying how Jesus changed your life. We want people all over New England —in their homes and scrolling on their phones—to see stories about how the resurrected Jesus brings purpose, meaning, and hope.
Here’s how you can participate:
Write a one-minute video of yourself sharing your testimony of how Jesus changed your life. If you want to post that on social media, here are some tips on how to tell your story, as well as selfie video best practices. Be sure to use hashtag #JesusChangedMyLife and tag @coahsomerville so people can learn more about Jesus through our local church. Pray that the resurrection power of Jesus on display in these videos would inspire many to join a service on Easter and begin their own #JesusChangedMyLife journeys.
FAQs
WHAT IF I’M NOT ON SOCIAL MEDIA or don’t want to post this?
The PRIMARY goal for us is not just to share your story, but for you to work through your own story. At this moment in time, there are unparalleled opportunities to serve our neighbors and more ways to communicate with others. It’s easier than ever to simply say “Hey, I just realized that I’ve never shared my story with you. Here’s why I am who I am or why I do what I do….” All it takes is a little courage, maybe some creativity, and prayer for wisdom and guidance.
WHAT IF MY STORY DOESN’T HAVE A “CONVERSION MOMENT”?
That’s okay! It’s not less powerful as a result. Some of us have stories that demonstrate God’s ability to pluck us from the wreckage and save us from the worst of circumstances. Others have stories that display God’s patient lovingkindness as he slowly woos us to himself. Even in less “dramatic” stories, there are moments where God has met us powerfully and personally in our struggle and need. Tell those parts of your story because they are powerful witnesses to the God who is weaving all things together for the good of those who love him and are called according to his purpose.
WHAT IF MY TESTIMONY IS BORING?
Maybe you grew up in the church or always “followed the rules.” While your story might lack the harrowing details of seedy bars and back alleys, it is still a story about the deathless God who loved you enough to die then rise again. There’s nothing boring about that! If we believe what Jesus has to say, it’s often harder for religious rule-followers to understand the gospel than it is for rebels! So, your salvation might be more miraculous! The fact remains that your heart was changed by the God who sees you, knows you, pursues you, and has rescued you. So tell your story and remember there’s probably another “rule follower” out there who needs to hear your story because it could be the story that changes their life.
WHAT IF MY TESTIMONY IS TOO LONG?
How do you fit your life — months, years, even decades — into a mere 60 seconds? How do you talk about the depth of your personal story and need for Christ in such a brief glimpse? The only answer we can give you is to practice! Use short sentences and precise words, think through what you want to say before you shoot it, and run through it a few times before recording. In fact, practicing with friends, family, or community who know you may actually help you process your story even more clearly.
HOW VULNERABLE SHOULD I BE ABOUT MY STORY?
Some of us have pain in our stories that is hard to describe in so few words, let alone share publicly. How do we treat difficult issues or traumas such as abuse with the sensitivity and depth they require? The obvious advice is to only be as vulnerable as you are comfortable with and to use discernment. If you would be uncomfortable with anyone from your grandma to a stranger knowing what you’ve been through, then find ways to share what you’ve gone through that aren’t explicit, or maybe focus on the emotional journey you experienced when you recognized your need for the gospel. Be gentle with yourself. You can share as much or as little of your story as you like — it’s yours to tell.