“Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. This is what the ancients were commended for.” – Hebrews 11:1-2 

The Unknown Faithful

Several weeks ago I cleaned out my garage. Being an accomplished packrat, it took all day. While digging through my treasures (or trash, depending on your view), I found a baseball covered with signatures. It was the game ball from the first round of the state tournament my freshman year in high school. I pitched a three-hit shutout on our team’s way to a runner-up finish.

A few minutes later I found a baseball that had been signed by several members of the 1984 Atlanta Braves, some of whom are in or will be in the Hall of Fame.

Of those two baseballs, one is valued by the world and one is valued by me.

Although no one who signed my baseball is famous, with nicknames like E-man and Spaz; these guys were an important part of my life, each affecting me in different ways. Some provided friendship, others leadership, inspiration and training. Yes, these guys had far more impact on my life than any member of the Braves.

The same is true for each of us. While the “Hall of Fame” preachers and evangelists are important to the spreading of the gospel, none of them will have the impact on the lives of your neighbors, co-workers and friends that you do.

Hebrews 11 names many people of faith, but it also talks about the deeds of the many that aren’t mentioned (v. 35-40).

Even though your name may never “be in lights,” your signature on a person’s life will be remembered and treasured in and for eternity.

-CHRIS BOGGS

(Photo Credit: Keith Allison)