I have been turning the idea of evangelism over carefully in my mind. How can I help share Jesus with a lost and dying world?
Christians, equipped with the given guideline or manual, embark upon the large task of sharing the Gospel with others. Recently, during a visit with a relative, I observed the interactions between a fellow believer and non-Christians. Rather than kind words or deeds, a haphazard, “God loves you!” was tossed to the hungry souls. Although I am certain that this dear believer was sincere, I struggled with this approach. I remember my college days at my alma mater, Greenville College. We did not have an evangelism specific class, but during resident assistant training, we were encouraged to share Jesus with others. After loading ourselves into a school van, we drove to St. Louis, MO. There, at Union Station, we burst from the vehicle, plan in our pockets, eager to share with others. Our task included locating some dear soul in the mall and having a conversation with him/her. It was a rather scripted conversation leading to the person’s goals in life and potential prayer. Please understand I am not trying to say that this type of method never works; however, in a recent viewing of a helpful video series produced by Dr. Dobson I found an interesting analogy.
Imagine that one of my girlfriends and I were at a gathering of some sort. We were close friends and I had met a young man at this gathering. Immediately I thought that the two would be a great match. I asked my friend to walk over and meet the young man. The conversation might go like this, “Sally, I’d like for you to meet Bob. Bob, this is Sally. Do you guys want to get married?” Wait a minute! This would never work!
When we ask people to simply pray and make the profession of faith, in essence we may be doing the same thing. There are definitely times of harvest when souls are ready to repent and receive, but there are also many stages in the process.
In my younger days I wanted to win souls for Christ, but frankly it scared me to death. Privately, with those that I knew closely, it was easy, but going up to a perfect stranger. Unthinkable! However, overcoming some of those obstacles, I went on two missions trips to both China and the Philippines. Both trips were wonderful and I came home a changed woman. Upon self reflection, I realized that rather than me helping the people of these countries, Joana’s heart was changed.
So, that leads me to the present. I must say, the daily grind is not nearly as exciting as a mission’s trip or full time ministry. No, sometimes it is difficult to treat my colleagues with love and patience, but I think that this is where my true mission field is. When day in and day out relationships are built and they see reactions to every circumstance, their hearts can slowly be plowed, molded, planted (repeatedly), and someday harvest will come.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about this. I have more to say, but the time has come to ‘hit the hay.’
Jo
