God put it on my heart early to teach children the Gospel and lead others to Christ. I’ve had over 45 years of evangelical training. Throughout those years, God has shifted my talents, giving me various ways to fulfill my purpose. Some of those gifts have faded, while others have remained and grown. I never would have thought a doll would bring such purpose.
One Christmas, my children received a ventriloquist dummy. They were thrilled! Everyone took turns trying to make them speak without moving their mouths. I chose to try my daughter’s dummy, Simon. It was as though God had placed this mission right in my lap. My husband said, “You must use this for your children’s ministry.” And so I did.
I purchased a record that taught me to say the ABCs without moving my mouth. With much practice, I began sharing the Gospel using Simon.
Simon and I perform skits that include some light humor, singing “Jesus Loves Me” in English and Spanish, and using the Wordless Book of 5 Colors. Each color represents a step of salvation.
Simon has significantly helped my journey with Christ. Through these skits, I offer a witness testimony. Our skits remind me of the joy in life. It is a constant reminder of my faith, and through this, my problems fade away.
One time, I performed for a children’s Bible study. A young boy was clinging to every word. Over 30 years later, our paths crossed again. He remembered me and shared how Simon made a lasting impression. His testimony and the fact that he remembered Simon’s name humbled me!
My work with Simon has expanded. I use him to share the Gospel in senior living and nursing homes, church services, Bible studies, and Bible school. My one rule for Simon is that he is used only to spread the Gospel and lead others to Jesus. He is my Gospel-driven dummy.
We always end with a personal application to Christ, giving those who have never been saved a chance to be welcomed into the Family of God, and those who have an opportunity to renew their walk with the Lord.
My prayer in using Simon is to plant the seed needed to cultivate a relationship with Christ, spreading His word, and leading others to know Him.
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