I love stories.  I have since I sat on my grandmother’s lap as she read ALL of them over and over again.  Three Little Bears … Cinderella … Snow White … Beauty and the Beast.  I couldn’t help myself then and I can’t help myself now!

Hearing and then reading stories as I grew up probably contributed to my love of writing. I know I have a novel buried somewhere deep within me, although I haven’t found it yet. So, for the time being, I blog and write weekly articles for newspapers. My love for writing apparently inspired our daughter to gift me with a subscription to Storyworth for Mother’s Day.  Never heard of it? Well, neither had I, but I LOVE IT!!

Every week I get an email with a question about my childhood, parents, family history, etc. From that prompt, I write a story to answer the question and fill in the blanks about my personal history. Every week for a year I get a question and I write a story. At the end of the year, all the stories are bound into a book to give to my family, friends, and whoever. When I first received the question, I thought, “well, this is sweet.”  Now I think, “well, this is neat!”

I’m learning and remembering a lot about my younger years, my parents, and why I do what I do. It’s bittersweet and often brings tears to my eyes as I remember my parents and siblings, the good and bad times over the many decades of life. It has helped me make peace with my past.

A story is a powerful teaching and learning tool!  I am grateful that Jesus gave us His parables in Scripture. Stories are easy to remember and easy to apply to our own lives. Just like I’m making peace with my past, I’m also learning new truths with God-given insight into my life’s circumstances.

Jesus said, “and you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32)  Thank you, Lord, for your truth, and your gift of stories/parables!

Debby Efurd is co-founder of Cary John Efurd Ministries. Learn more about the ministry by liking our Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/CJEMinistries) and downloading our FREE mobile app (get.theapp.co) from App Store or Google Play. Once downloaded, allow notifications to keep you up to date on what’s happening in Cary John Efurd Ministries. Debby can be contacted at caryjohnefurdministries@gmail.com