I was in a retail store earlier today buying some things for church. The salesman helping me was very friendly (as most salesmen are) and was making small talk. Naturally one of the first things he asked me was what I was buying the stuff for, and I proceeded to tell him it was for a children's area at church, and that I was the children's pastor there. He said something along the lines of, "Oh, that's cool. I actually have three kids of my own." I asked him how old they were and he told me (10, 5, and 2.5). I then thought to myself, "Self, buck up. Here's a good chance to share that Jesus person you're always talking about on Sundays."So I asked him, "Do you go to church anywhere?"
He answered, "No, not right now."
I thought, "Ah ha! And now for the hook!"
I said, "Oh you should come check out Broadway, it's pretty cool. We have services on Sunday and stuff on Tuesday nights."
At the time it sounded great. Surely, through my eloquent phraseology and persuasive dialogue he will give his life to Christ.
I'm ashamed to admit that's about the extent of our conversation. I didn't have one of my business cards with me (he gave me one of his). I didn't tell him what times the services were. In fact, I didn't even say as much as a "God bless you" when I left. As I drove away, the first thoughts I had were good ones. I had done a good job, had said what I needed to. But the more I thought about it, the more ashamed I became.
Is this what my faith means to me? A timid and mumbled attempt to invite someone to a Sunday service? Is that what Christ meant when He said, "Go into all the world..."?
I realize that God can do amazing things with very little (lunch anyone?). But I'm pretty sure God's going to have to pick up a lot of slack for me on this one. Maybe I'll have a follow up to this. I've decided I'm going to go back later and (hopefully) give him a business card and some stuff about Broadway. Let's hope I'll even be so bold as to *gasp* pray with him or something.
Lord God, I pray that you would make me bold. That I would willingly and unashamedly speak your name, and tell of your love.
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