Evansville Missionaries Peter Putzier and Catherine Ficker. By Chris Meehan
“I think the Lord wants us to praise the Lord and sing a song to them.”
Catherine Ficker was talking to Peter Putzier as the two missionaries approached a one-story home in an older Evansville subdivision with neat lawns and sidewalks. The missionaries sing often in nursing homes and prayer meetings, but they’d never sung unprompted on a front porch before.
Earlier that afternoon, as the missionaries gathered to pray, someone had read a psalm about praising God. In Catherine’s mind, the word about singing fit right in.
A dark-haired woman of middle age opened the door and looked out at them through the screen. “I think the Lord wants us to sing for you,” Peter said, “and you’re welcome to join in.”
The missionaries raised their hands and sang: “If you want to see the victory of the Lord, why don’t you praise him, lift up your hands and praise him?”
The woman stood plain-faced, but her kindergarten-aged daughter swayed and beamed with delight. She seemed to enjoy every note.
“All right, I have to go,” the woman said, as they finished the song.
“Great,” Peter said. “Praise God!”
The woman closed the door.
“That child got it,” Peter said later. “Her appreciation of our song reminded me of what Jesus said about receiving the kingdom of God like a little child.
“I’m sure God wanted us to sing that day. I would do it again if that’s what needed to be done.”
Responses
Edna Malone says:
March 25th, 2010 at 5:16 PM
As I read this it felt so right. Thank you for hearing the word of the Lord and acting on it. I know the Lord will use this in ways you will never know. God Bless all you are doing and your courage. Edna
Suzanne Thomas says:
March 25th, 2010 at 7:44 PM
Music touches everyone. I'm sure that tune will come to one of them at just the right time. Thanks for stepping out and being faithful to the Father. Blessings on you!
Suzanne
eileen horan says:
March 25th, 2010 at 9:23 PM
What a powerful story! As I read it I could just picture the two of you standing there, peacefully following the Spirit and singing away. Thank you for your courage and persistance. I am so blessed!
Gina Kadera says:
March 26th, 2010 at 1:33 AM
"And a little child shall lead them."
Joan Sier says:
March 29th, 2010 at 10:23 PM
I had a dream about a week ago that my husband David and I started to bring the word of the Lord to our neighbors by singing at their doors. This vision was impressed upon me throughout the night. When I awoke I wondered if anyone else sang when they walked their neighborhood. Then, 2 days later, you posted "Preaching in song" and we are so inspired.
Your posts are a way of training your brothers and sisters to obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit.
Joan
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