Go in Jesus' Name

I don't know if any of you know who this woman is. (hold up the picture) Her name is Fanny Crosby. She lived a very long time ago—before most of your great-grandparents were even born! She has an amazing story!

Fanny was born healthy but when she was an infant, she got sick. A man, pretending to be a doctor, tried to cure her but instead he blinded her. This didn't stop Ms. Crosby though. By the age of 8 she began writing poems. She also wrote hymns—many of which are still sung in churches today! She wrote for presidents and was the first woman ever to speak before the United States Senate.

Many famous musicians came to Fanny for help, asking her to write words for the music they had written. Once, a very famous musician passed by her house on the way to the train station. He asked her if she would write words to go with a song he was going to present that night. She only had 35 minutes! Not only did she do it, but "Safe in the Arms of Jesus" became one of her most famous hymns.

When people have amazing talent like this, they can do many things with it. Some may brag about their talent and show off to everyone. Others choose to use their gifts to glorify God. That is what Ms. Crosby did—she even wrote a very famous hymn that we still sing today called, "To God be the Glory"

In our Bible lesson today, Jesus sent out workers to tell others about God. He told them exactly what they should do and sent them out with everything they needed to be successful. When they came back, they were overjoyed by the great success of their mission saying, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us in Your name." Jesus answered, "...do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven."

We need to remember that whatever God asks of us—whether it is to share God's love by telling others, singing it to others, teaching others, making music about it to others or preaching it to others, we do it for the "glory of God" — not to make ourselves look good.

Let's pray: Heavenly God, help us to be your workers, to spread your love to others and to give the thanks and praise to You for all that you have done and will do through us. Amen

Fanny Crosby Book Cover