Sean Madden
Interview with Sean Madden
The Story Behind My Story
by Sean Madden
Several months ago, a friend presented me with the opportunity to share my testimony. This had been on my list for years to do since accepting Christ in 2005. What had previously been seen as a near-chore turned out to be quite the opposite. Amidst traveling to clients, working the typical 50-60 hours and juggling a family of four, I slated time on a trip to Ohio to collect my thoughts. My friend sent me a helpful email that really helped me to focus and pointed out that the Bible is clear about our need to be intentional in sharing our story. So before I ever picked up a pen, I prayed diligently beforehand, asking Him to make it clear what I should tell others about me.
Being a creative individual, I sought out a unique, compelling message about all that had happened to me and in me over these past seven years. I had 2-3 good ideas but wasn’t sure which path to choose. So I prayed further. And then some more. And then it hit me – this wasn’t about me. It was about Him. Everything that had changed in me, the challenges I had overcome, the greener side of the pasture was all noise because it had focused on the wrong thing. I had the clarity I needed. I focused on relationships and the need for prosperity in the evolving relationship I was fortunate to be a part of with Jesus Christ. The surprising part was that it was hard and easy at the same time. Writing it was easy but thinking through it was physically and emotionally taxing. Spiritually, I was stronger.
For the first time in a while, I felt I had walked with Christ. I felt that one-on-one dialogue that I long for each and every day. To write my testimony turned out to be a great blessing. If I could do it all over again, without prior knowledge, I would in a heartbeat. If you are asked to do the same, I encourage you to just say “Yes.” Forget about the “when” and “how” you will get there. He will do that for you. But don't be so naïve as to think you do not play a part. Pray daily, asking Him to carve out that time for you, and seize the opportunity when it comes along. If for no other reason, I believe the act alone is way He gets us to reconnect with Him, which is the sole reason we are in relationship with Christ in the first place. Just like with our kids, parents and siblings, the value lies in that connection.
We don’t ask for more time at work or more cash in the bank on our deathbeds; it’s more time with the people we love that we long for. Christ should be no exception.