I met him in Mexico at the Ruins of Teotihuacan, just as we entered the archaeological restorations. He was selling statuettes of the sun god, made of obsidian stone, and tablecloths made from the agave plant. He followed me, all the way down the Avenue of the Dead, repeating his sales pitch every time we slowed to look at something, or to listen to the guide give a lecture. Each time, the price was reduced just a bit. Finally, he reached his limit.

"I can't go any lower," he said, "I've got to eat."

I really did want the little statuette and the tablecloth, but not at that moment. I wanted to buy it at another time — not to spend my precious time at the Pyramid of the Sun making a purchase. Finally, in an attempt to get free of him, I purchased both items.

"Don't these vendors irritate you?" someone asked.

"Yes," I said, "but I respect their perseverance."

Romans 2:7 – To those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honour and immortality, he will give eternal life. (NIV)

Romans 15:4-5 – For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you a spirit of unity among yourselves as you follow Christ Jesus. (NIV)

If we, as Christians, were as persistent in our spiritual lives as the vendor was in selling his merchandise, we would win the world for Christ.

Luke 21:19 – Staying with it — that's what is required. Stay with it to the end. You won't be sorry; you'll be saved. (MSG)

Prayer: Lord, grant us perseverance in winning others for Your kingdom. Keep us persistent in following Your instructions for our lives, as recorded in the Scriptures. Amen.

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