We are currently in the midst of our Just Walk Across The Room campaign. I’d love to hear your stories of walking across the room to others or of someone walking across the room to you. You may want to withhold actual names, if you feel they may not want their name mentioned. Yet, feel free to include names appropriately, as a way of affirming those who God used in your life. Add your story in the comments section of this post.
I use an interesting method of reaching those in our community. When shopping, frequent the same, but limited number of stores. Get to know, and call by their name, the check out clerks, deli & produce stockers, managers, pharmacists, gas station attendants, etc.
Go to those who may be different than you. Some may give the appearance of being ‘hard,’ ‘tough,’ ‘angry’ especially to the gospel or Christianity. Don’t be pre-judgmental. Once you get to know them, and show them some kindness, they will warm up to you. I’ve seen it happen all the time.
On future visits, take time to purposely go back to the same people, and find out how they are doing. In showing some interest in them, they will invariably ask about you. Give interesting but non-threatening answers that may encourage the conversation over the next visits. People always ask about your weekend plans. I like the line “I’m going to prison,” or “I’m going to a nursing home.”
The process is long, and may take months and years; but it’s worth it. Some may be temporary employees, or soon to leave the area. This may have been their only chance to hear that Jesus loves them.
Some may have anger towards the church or religious institutions because of their perception that their lifestyle is politically unacceptable; and so we condemn the person along with their activity. This is YOUR chance to address the heart and spirit, and not the outward manifestation.
Some may have known the Lord years ago, and these visits are a way the Lord uses to bring them back to their own roots in Christ.
The scenarios are endless, and so are the opportunities.
Well, I’m off to Wal-Mart, and see how B___, and Y____, and M___, and S____, and the others are doing.
Just wanted to stop by and say thanks. Enjoy reading your stuff.