Looking out the Window: Writer, Blog and Podcast Hostess Patti Shene Gonzales Tells Us How She Knows Jesus Is Real

A Warm Welcome to Patti Shene Gonzales

Be on the lookout for a Christmas novella from Patti

Hi Patti, Thanks for joining us today to discuss this important question.

HOW DO I KNOW JESUS IS REAL?

This interesting question is one that some may ponder for a period of time, while others will have an immediate answer.

I had a prompt answer, but I also dove deeper into my thoughts in order to present a more substantial rationalization for my belief.

My immediate response to the question generated another question.

Is Jesus real?

Simple answer.

Yes.

Then I stepped back and asked myself how we know anyone we have heard about in history is real.

Take George Washington, for example. We learned in school that he was a great American military leader who eventually held the position of the first president of the United States. We know facts about him based on writings that have been recorded in history books for generations.

The first people who communicated those facts knew George Washington on a personal basis. Friends, family members, men who served in the military, and men who governed with him shared anecdotes about him by word of mouth until someone wrote them down and they found their way into history books.

The stories we hear about Jesus were also written by people who knew Him and observed Him on a daily basis. They admired His interaction with others, regardless of social or economic status, appearance or dress. They marveled at His teachings. They absorbed His knowledge. They witnessed His miracles. They sought to understand His deep connection to the Father.

The gospels were written over a span of forty years by four different men. Yet, the events reported in those books of the Bible are presented with such similarity that their credence is evident.

The followers of Jesus suffered horrific consequences for their loyalty to the Savior. It requires strong belief in an idea or person to face persecution, ostracism, imprisonment, and death. Many of the early Christians refused to renounce their faith, knowing these dire repercussions awaited them. No one of sane mind would sacrifice safety, freedom, and life for a fallacy.

Beyond these points lies the much deeper fact that Jesus is a living spirit within my heart.

This doesn’t happen automatically. It takes time and effort to cultivate a relationship with Jesus. We must nurture it through prayer, engage in Bible study, and develop a sincere desire to submit to Him completely.

I feel His presence when I need comfort.

I sense His smile when I reach out to others.

I cringe at his rebuke when I knowingly sin.

I welcome His guidance when I contemplate choices.

I am privileged to invoke His power.

I am cleansed with His forgiveness.

I am blessed with His peace.

I am born again through His sacrifice.

I am convinced He is real.

Bio:

Patti Shene Gonzales hosts Step Into the Light, a weekly interview style podcast, where guests share ways they lead others out of darkness or their journey back to light. She hosts writers on her two blogs, Patti’s Porch and The Over 50 Writer. Patti is published in two anthologies and local publications and has three novels in progress. Her Christmas novella will release in November. She enjoys writing, reading, critiquing, and spending time with family and friends. Patti lives in Colorado with her devoted feline companion, Duncan.

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