11/30/09 Earl and "Jim" about 22, 16
Out on an errand, I stopped at a Starbucks looking for a conversation and went to talk to the first people by the door, two black guys who sat working on their laptops, and I asked if I could ask them some informal survey questions about their beliefs. The older guy, Earl, said that he doesn't talk about his beliefs but the younger, whom I'll call "Jim" (I never found out his name) said he would answer them. "Jim" attends a Catholic high school on an athletic scholarship and I asked about his religion classes, his church background, and his current beliefs. My survey questions usually transition into more of a two-way conversation, but "Jim" really didn't have many beliefs or questions of his own. So my questions, which follow a logical thought process leading from law to grace, started to sound manipulative to Earl. Suddenly Earl jumped in, asking the purpose of my "survey". I admitted that I use it to start conversations as a means of sharing my Christian faith. Earl told me this is deceptive and goes against what I claim to believe. (I pretty much agree, and would like to find a more honest and straightforward way to begin conversations.) He went on to say I had interrupted their tutoring session and that I had no right to force my opinions on a teenager who "should be thinking about girls and sports and having fun in high school." I apologized because I didn't realize I was interrupting their tutoring session, but I told Earl he should allow his student to speak and think for himself. Because eternity is at stake and tomorrow is not guaranteed, it IS important to think about one's beliefs early in life. I asked Earl if he had religious beliefs, which he said he does. "Do you think it is important to tell others what you believe?" He wouldn't say. As for me, I think a religion not worth sharing is a religion not worth having.
Gospel conversations from the streets and marketplace....
11/29/09 John, about 40
At a laundromat I talked with John while he was folding his clothes. He was baptized as an infant in a Lutheran church but is no longer a churchgoer. "I believe in God but I don't trust churches" he told me. He believes that churches use the Bible for their own interest and can't be trusted. He believes some of the Bible may have been inspired by God but thinks it too has been corrupted by people over the years to the point that it can't be trusted. He agreed with me that all he can do is pick and choose which parts of the Bible he wants to believe and which he doesn't. I told him of my belief that the same divine intervention that inspired the Bible has also preserved it through the centuries. John agreed that this is possible but thinks that God should reveal himself to humanity every few centuries to keep us on the right track. He showed no conviction when exposed to the Ten Commandments - "What about all the other laws of Moses, why don't we have to obey them?" He used this to bolster his argument that churches manipulate the Bible. Throughout our conversation John stated several times that it is "the height of arrogance for people to think they know anything about God or to claim that they are saved". I told him that I have been called arrogant before by people who have their own ideas about God, but at least my ideas are based on an outside source - the Bible - and not my own personal preferences. Instead I believe it takes a lot of humility to submit to biblical truths about God that I may not agree with at first. I warned John before I left about the tendency in our day to break the second commandment against worshipping idols by creating an image of "god" in our minds that we are more comfortable worshipping than the God of the Bible.
At a laundromat I talked with John while he was folding his clothes. He was baptized as an infant in a Lutheran church but is no longer a churchgoer. "I believe in God but I don't trust churches" he told me. He believes that churches use the Bible for their own interest and can't be trusted. He believes some of the Bible may have been inspired by God but thinks it too has been corrupted by people over the years to the point that it can't be trusted. He agreed with me that all he can do is pick and choose which parts of the Bible he wants to believe and which he doesn't. I told him of my belief that the same divine intervention that inspired the Bible has also preserved it through the centuries. John agreed that this is possible but thinks that God should reveal himself to humanity every few centuries to keep us on the right track. He showed no conviction when exposed to the Ten Commandments - "What about all the other laws of Moses, why don't we have to obey them?" He used this to bolster his argument that churches manipulate the Bible. Throughout our conversation John stated several times that it is "the height of arrogance for people to think they know anything about God or to claim that they are saved". I told him that I have been called arrogant before by people who have their own ideas about God, but at least my ideas are based on an outside source - the Bible - and not my own personal preferences. Instead I believe it takes a lot of humility to submit to biblical truths about God that I may not agree with at first. I warned John before I left about the tendency in our day to break the second commandment against worshipping idols by creating an image of "god" in our minds that we are more comfortable worshipping than the God of the Bible.
11/29/09 Jose, about 45
At the laundromat I also talked with Jose, who told me he believes in God but is starting to doubt. He is going through a divorce and has been praying for relief from his feelings of loneliness, betrayal, depression and rejection. He feels that since he isn't asking for material things like money, possessions or a job then his prayer isn't selfish and "God should grant my requests. Instead I feel like God is ignoring me, so I've even asked the devil but he doesn't help either." Jose grew up Catholic but no longer attends church. He is holding on to many false promises he heard at church or has seen on Christian TV programs. Jose seemed so fixated on his problems and God's failure to help him that everything I said seemed to fall on deaf ears. In the end I basically encouraged him to keep waiting on the Lord but that while he waits he needs to actively seek Him through reading his Word, prayer, and fellowship. He didn't have a Bible so I gave him a Spanish language New Testament along with my contact info.
At the laundromat I also talked with Jose, who told me he believes in God but is starting to doubt. He is going through a divorce and has been praying for relief from his feelings of loneliness, betrayal, depression and rejection. He feels that since he isn't asking for material things like money, possessions or a job then his prayer isn't selfish and "God should grant my requests. Instead I feel like God is ignoring me, so I've even asked the devil but he doesn't help either." Jose grew up Catholic but no longer attends church. He is holding on to many false promises he heard at church or has seen on Christian TV programs. Jose seemed so fixated on his problems and God's failure to help him that everything I said seemed to fall on deaf ears. In the end I basically encouraged him to keep waiting on the Lord but that while he waits he needs to actively seek Him through reading his Word, prayer, and fellowship. He didn't have a Bible so I gave him a Spanish language New Testament along with my contact info.
11/27/09 Tony, Matt, and Collin, all about 15
On "Black Friday" at a Target store everyone looked busy shopping, so I asked a lady sitting at a table in the snack area if I could ask a crazy question. "Of course" she said, smiling, probably expecting to be able to help me in some way, but when I asked if she believes in a higher power, she said "I really think that's personal". I apologized and went on my way. In the parking lot three teenagers were passing through, laughing and talking loudly, so I stopped them by giving them million dollar bill tracts. They thanked me and began to continue on their way but I said "I want you to notice the question on the back - 'Will you go to heaven?' and it gives the good person test - are you guys good people?" They said they were so I told them "Well let me check and see - how many lies do you think you've told?" (More than they could keep track of) How many lies does it take to be a liar?" (Just one) Have you ever taken anything that didn't belong to you? (All three admitted they had) "What does that make you?" (A stealer? Oh yeah, a thief!) "So I'm speaking to liars and thieves, right?" They laughed at this, nervously, and by the end they easily admitted they were liars, thieves, blasphemers, and murderers and adulterers at heart. They agreed that God would find them guilty on judgment day and they deserved the punishment of hell and yes, they were concerned about it. Although they were all in CCE class at a Catholic church, they really had no idea what could save them so I had the privilege of sharing about salvation through faith in Jesus. May these seeds planted grow to eternal life!
On "Black Friday" at a Target store everyone looked busy shopping, so I asked a lady sitting at a table in the snack area if I could ask a crazy question. "Of course" she said, smiling, probably expecting to be able to help me in some way, but when I asked if she believes in a higher power, she said "I really think that's personal". I apologized and went on my way. In the parking lot three teenagers were passing through, laughing and talking loudly, so I stopped them by giving them million dollar bill tracts. They thanked me and began to continue on their way but I said "I want you to notice the question on the back - 'Will you go to heaven?' and it gives the good person test - are you guys good people?" They said they were so I told them "Well let me check and see - how many lies do you think you've told?" (More than they could keep track of) How many lies does it take to be a liar?" (Just one) Have you ever taken anything that didn't belong to you? (All three admitted they had) "What does that make you?" (A stealer? Oh yeah, a thief!) "So I'm speaking to liars and thieves, right?" They laughed at this, nervously, and by the end they easily admitted they were liars, thieves, blasphemers, and murderers and adulterers at heart. They agreed that God would find them guilty on judgment day and they deserved the punishment of hell and yes, they were concerned about it. Although they were all in CCE class at a Catholic church, they really had no idea what could save them so I had the privilege of sharing about salvation through faith in Jesus. May these seeds planted grow to eternal life!
11/26/09 Don, about 70
While jogging in Minnesota Thanksgiving morning I struck up a conversation with Don, who was out working on his fence. He loved to talk, so it wasn't hard after a few minutes to say "Can I ask you an interesting question?" "Oh sure" he replied, and he was very open to answering my questions about God's existence. But what he really liked talking about was himself, and he soon veered to a variety of topics about his life experiences that he was more interested in. I steered the conversation back to spiritual things, but after having to do that several times it was obvious Don had no interest in talking about the things of God. Though he grew up in the United Brethren church and now attends a Lutheran church on occasion, he is really unsure whether God or eternal life exists. He had agreed that eternity is important to prepare for, and had told me about all his land holdings and the wealth he had accumulated, so as I said goodbye I gave a friendly warning: "You know you can't take any of this with you when you go, but what is really important is to obtain the forgiveness that can only come through Jesus Christ." God can use even these few words of truth to speak into the life of an unbeliever like Don. Let's pray He will.
While jogging in Minnesota Thanksgiving morning I struck up a conversation with Don, who was out working on his fence. He loved to talk, so it wasn't hard after a few minutes to say "Can I ask you an interesting question?" "Oh sure" he replied, and he was very open to answering my questions about God's existence. But what he really liked talking about was himself, and he soon veered to a variety of topics about his life experiences that he was more interested in. I steered the conversation back to spiritual things, but after having to do that several times it was obvious Don had no interest in talking about the things of God. Though he grew up in the United Brethren church and now attends a Lutheran church on occasion, he is really unsure whether God or eternal life exists. He had agreed that eternity is important to prepare for, and had told me about all his land holdings and the wealth he had accumulated, so as I said goodbye I gave a friendly warning: "You know you can't take any of this with you when you go, but what is really important is to obtain the forgiveness that can only come through Jesus Christ." God can use even these few words of truth to speak into the life of an unbeliever like Don. Let's pray He will.
11/25/09 Shanelle and Alex, both early 20's
God's law had done its work. Shanelle had gone from confident assurance in her good works for salvation to the belief that her good would outweigh her bad, and finally to a desperate hope that her sincere repentance would convince God that she is worthy of heaven on judgment day. But the standard of the Ten Commandments had taken away any illusions of heavenly rewards and had revealed her true state as a sinner deserving punishment. It was a quiet evening at the store where she worked so I had felt free to ask Shanelle about eternal things, and we were joined after a few minutes by her coworker, Alex.. Both had church backgrounds and seemed sensitive to the seriousness of their sins, so they didn't try to explain or excuse it away. I told them I had recently seen the movie "2012" in which a man held a sign saying "Repent, the end is near" while the world fell down around him. "But by then it will be too late to repent, won't it?" Shenelle agreed. "If there is a way to be declared innocent, to settle out of court and have your case dismissed now, before judgment day, would you be interested in it?" I asked. "Oh yes!" Shanelle exclaimed, and I could tell Alex also wanted to know how this could be possible. What a joy to be able to go to share the good news of Jesus with hearts that were thirsty for it, a thirst that had been created by the heat of God's law and the consequences for breaking it.
God's law had done its work. Shanelle had gone from confident assurance in her good works for salvation to the belief that her good would outweigh her bad, and finally to a desperate hope that her sincere repentance would convince God that she is worthy of heaven on judgment day. But the standard of the Ten Commandments had taken away any illusions of heavenly rewards and had revealed her true state as a sinner deserving punishment. It was a quiet evening at the store where she worked so I had felt free to ask Shanelle about eternal things, and we were joined after a few minutes by her coworker, Alex.. Both had church backgrounds and seemed sensitive to the seriousness of their sins, so they didn't try to explain or excuse it away. I told them I had recently seen the movie "2012" in which a man held a sign saying "Repent, the end is near" while the world fell down around him. "But by then it will be too late to repent, won't it?" Shenelle agreed. "If there is a way to be declared innocent, to settle out of court and have your case dismissed now, before judgment day, would you be interested in it?" I asked. "Oh yes!" Shanelle exclaimed, and I could tell Alex also wanted to know how this could be possible. What a joy to be able to go to share the good news of Jesus with hearts that were thirsty for it, a thirst that had been created by the heat of God's law and the consequences for breaking it.
11/24/09 Chris, about 30
While on my lunch break I went to a McDonalds and sat down to talk to Chris, a salesman. Chris believes there is probably a god or higher power, but is not sure about eternal life. He described himself as being too busy, with two jobs and a family to support, to worry about such things. He said he pretty much forgot about God when his parents divorced when he was seven, and is now a "Cheaster Catholic" (Christmas and Easter). I tried to emphasize the importance of living with eternity in mind and he agreed it is important, and emphatically believes he will go to heaven if there is one "because I keep the commandments". That statement led me to give him the good person questions and I found out he is a very good person in his own eyes, full of excuses about the times he has broken God's laws. If I had it to do over again, I would try to more vividly describe what it must be like standing before God on judgment day before asking these questions, because while his excuses might sound okay to human ears, they wouldn't help him much standing before a holy and almighty Judge. Unfortunately, Chris is a salesman who has sold himself on his excuses, and I couldn't convince him otherwise. "The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature." Luke 8:14
While on my lunch break I went to a McDonalds and sat down to talk to Chris, a salesman. Chris believes there is probably a god or higher power, but is not sure about eternal life. He described himself as being too busy, with two jobs and a family to support, to worry about such things. He said he pretty much forgot about God when his parents divorced when he was seven, and is now a "Cheaster Catholic" (Christmas and Easter). I tried to emphasize the importance of living with eternity in mind and he agreed it is important, and emphatically believes he will go to heaven if there is one "because I keep the commandments". That statement led me to give him the good person questions and I found out he is a very good person in his own eyes, full of excuses about the times he has broken God's laws. If I had it to do over again, I would try to more vividly describe what it must be like standing before God on judgment day before asking these questions, because while his excuses might sound okay to human ears, they wouldn't help him much standing before a holy and almighty Judge. Unfortunately, Chris is a salesman who has sold himself on his excuses, and I couldn't convince him otherwise. "The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life's worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature." Luke 8:14
11/23/09 Steve, 38
I stopped in Burger King on my way home from work and asked Steve, a truck driver on break with his truck idling outside, if I could ask him a few questions. He looked at his watch and asked how long it would take. We finished our conversation half an hour later. Steve became a devout Catholic about five years ago. The sudden death of a friend in a car accident and the need for some sort of religious upbringing for his four children led him to a period of seeking God. He was especially impressed by the words of Jesus, which were in red letters in his Bible. The teaching that really caught Steve's attention was from Matthew 7: "Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." He decided to take serious the Catholic faith that he had married into. Steve was very different from most Catholics that I have talked to. He reads his Bible regularly and tries to share his faith with friends and co-workers. He knows that he can't earn heaven by good works, but "has broken every Commandment" and trusts in God's mercy alone for salvation. However he was slow to make the connection between God's mercy and the cross, so I explained it more clearly and he heartily agreed with our need for God's sacrifice of His Son on our behalf. His main problem with Protestant churches is that they divided both from the Catholic Church and amongst themselves. Steve was glad I stopped to talk to him and clearly enjoyed our conversation, and I think a small part of that division may have been mended.
I stopped in Burger King on my way home from work and asked Steve, a truck driver on break with his truck idling outside, if I could ask him a few questions. He looked at his watch and asked how long it would take. We finished our conversation half an hour later. Steve became a devout Catholic about five years ago. The sudden death of a friend in a car accident and the need for some sort of religious upbringing for his four children led him to a period of seeking God. He was especially impressed by the words of Jesus, which were in red letters in his Bible. The teaching that really caught Steve's attention was from Matthew 7: "Wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." He decided to take serious the Catholic faith that he had married into. Steve was very different from most Catholics that I have talked to. He reads his Bible regularly and tries to share his faith with friends and co-workers. He knows that he can't earn heaven by good works, but "has broken every Commandment" and trusts in God's mercy alone for salvation. However he was slow to make the connection between God's mercy and the cross, so I explained it more clearly and he heartily agreed with our need for God's sacrifice of His Son on our behalf. His main problem with Protestant churches is that they divided both from the Catholic Church and amongst themselves. Steve was glad I stopped to talk to him and clearly enjoyed our conversation, and I think a small part of that division may have been mended.
11/22/09 Linda, Russell, and Michael
While out on an errand, I stopped in at a laundromat to pass out million dollar tracts and start a conversation. Linda, there with her two grandsons, told me she no longer attends church because of the child abuse scandals involving priests. When she was a child, she had learned the Ten Commandments and generally respected God's authority but her grandchildren seem to have no respect for God or authority at all. I asked how she intended to teach them about God, but all she could say was that she had some religious statues at home and lit some candles on occasion. About this time her two grandsons, about 12 and 8 years old, butted in, showing no respect to their Grandma but wanting million dollar bill tracts of their own. I couldn't continue the conversation with Linda and she told Russell and Michael to listen to me so I focused on talking to them and answering their questions. Many were based on outlandish claims about religion from popular culture so I emphasized their need to base their beliefs on the Bible and our need for faith in Jesus. Linda was listening, and I feel I set a good example of how she can relate to her grandchildren as well as what and whom to base her faith on.
While out on an errand, I stopped in at a laundromat to pass out million dollar tracts and start a conversation. Linda, there with her two grandsons, told me she no longer attends church because of the child abuse scandals involving priests. When she was a child, she had learned the Ten Commandments and generally respected God's authority but her grandchildren seem to have no respect for God or authority at all. I asked how she intended to teach them about God, but all she could say was that she had some religious statues at home and lit some candles on occasion. About this time her two grandsons, about 12 and 8 years old, butted in, showing no respect to their Grandma but wanting million dollar bill tracts of their own. I couldn't continue the conversation with Linda and she told Russell and Michael to listen to me so I focused on talking to them and answering their questions. Many were based on outlandish claims about religion from popular culture so I emphasized their need to base their beliefs on the Bible and our need for faith in Jesus. Linda was listening, and I feel I set a good example of how she can relate to her grandchildren as well as what and whom to base her faith on.
11/21/09 Carl, about 35
While grocery shopping I started a conversation with Carl, who confidently stated he will go to heaven "because I'm a good person and I believe in God and Jesus". "Well if you are good enough to get to heaven, then what did Jesus die for?" Carl answered, "Hmmm, I'll have to think about that..." I prompted him - "Jesus died for...." "Our sins! Yeah, that's right" Carl answered. I continued, "Yet you believe you are good enough to go to heaven. Did Jesus die for YOUR sins?" Carl - "It was what Adam did in the Garden of Eden, and we are all under a curse..." "But what about you personally? Have YOU sinned?" "Oh I see, have I personally sinned? I guess I have." I reminded Carl that Jesus died because of our sins, not because of our goodness. Is Carl saved? I don't know. Would he be able to accurately share faith in Christ? I don't think so, unless God grows the seeds of truth that have been planted in his life.
While grocery shopping I started a conversation with Carl, who confidently stated he will go to heaven "because I'm a good person and I believe in God and Jesus". "Well if you are good enough to get to heaven, then what did Jesus die for?" Carl answered, "Hmmm, I'll have to think about that..." I prompted him - "Jesus died for...." "Our sins! Yeah, that's right" Carl answered. I continued, "Yet you believe you are good enough to go to heaven. Did Jesus die for YOUR sins?" Carl - "It was what Adam did in the Garden of Eden, and we are all under a curse..." "But what about you personally? Have YOU sinned?" "Oh I see, have I personally sinned? I guess I have." I reminded Carl that Jesus died because of our sins, not because of our goodness. Is Carl saved? I don't know. Would he be able to accurately share faith in Christ? I don't think so, unless God grows the seeds of truth that have been planted in his life.
11/20/09 Jim, about 45
I had some extra time on my hands at a Lowes Home Store, so I looked to start a conversation with someone but found myself fearful again. I walked the aisles thanking God for giving me the boldness I need and praying He will help me overcome my fear, and this verse came to mind with a whole new meaning: "Perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4) If I truly love God I will keep His commands, and He commands me to love my neighbor, and if I truly love my neighbor I will cast out my fears and share the words of eternal life! That settled, I talked to Jim, a contractor who takes pride in his honest and trustworthy business. He told me he is Catholic but isn't too involved with church. He believes in God, hopes there is a heaven, and doesn't believe in hell. Ho doesn't think anyone will be punished for sin because he believes all sin comes from mental illness or temporary insanity. He even defended Hitler with these excuses. I asked if he has gone against what his conscience knows to be right behavior - and he has - but it seems that if mass murderers and rapists have excuses for their "bad decisions", than Jim would find it hard to be concerned about his own sin. Only God can bring the conviction that can help Jim know his true state before a holy God.
I had some extra time on my hands at a Lowes Home Store, so I looked to start a conversation with someone but found myself fearful again. I walked the aisles thanking God for giving me the boldness I need and praying He will help me overcome my fear, and this verse came to mind with a whole new meaning: "Perfect love drives out fear" (1 John 4) If I truly love God I will keep His commands, and He commands me to love my neighbor, and if I truly love my neighbor I will cast out my fears and share the words of eternal life! That settled, I talked to Jim, a contractor who takes pride in his honest and trustworthy business. He told me he is Catholic but isn't too involved with church. He believes in God, hopes there is a heaven, and doesn't believe in hell. Ho doesn't think anyone will be punished for sin because he believes all sin comes from mental illness or temporary insanity. He even defended Hitler with these excuses. I asked if he has gone against what his conscience knows to be right behavior - and he has - but it seems that if mass murderers and rapists have excuses for their "bad decisions", than Jim would find it hard to be concerned about his own sin. Only God can bring the conviction that can help Jim know his true state before a holy God.
11/19/09 Dan, 28
I went out for a jog and passed through the IIT campus where I struck up a conversation with Dan, a student in the College of Music. Dan had grown up in a Pentecostal family, attending church at least four times a week while growing up and witnessing miracles of healing and speaking in tongues. He really didn't seem to have anything bad to say about his church background but when he moved away from home he placed himself under the teaching of a Buddhist monk and martial arts teacher for the next seven years. He claimed to have witnessed many of the same kinds of healing miracles in the Buddhist temple as he did in church. He has also studied Islam extensively and is interested in all religions, but seems to favor Buddhist ideas of "enlightened" thinking, and often even interprets Jesus' teachings in Buddhist terms. I asked if he has witnessed "fire and brimstone" preaching when growing up, which he had, and we both agreed that it is often used as a form of manipulation by preachers. The problem is that hell seems unreasonable to most people, so we talked about why it is an appropriate punishment for disobeying a holy God. Despite his church upbringing, Dan still thought his goodness would save him if there was a judgment day, so I helped him take personal responsibility for his sin with exposure to some of God's 10 Commandments. "But God forgives me when I confess my sins to him, which I do all the time" he said, so I explained that there is a huge difference between legal forgiveness, which has to do with having a right standing before God through faith in Jesus who satisfies God's demand for justice, and relational forgiveness, which allows us to be in fellowship with God on a daily basis. I gave Dan a booklet which compares Christianity to other religions, and Dan said he will definitely read it soon.
I went out for a jog and passed through the IIT campus where I struck up a conversation with Dan, a student in the College of Music. Dan had grown up in a Pentecostal family, attending church at least four times a week while growing up and witnessing miracles of healing and speaking in tongues. He really didn't seem to have anything bad to say about his church background but when he moved away from home he placed himself under the teaching of a Buddhist monk and martial arts teacher for the next seven years. He claimed to have witnessed many of the same kinds of healing miracles in the Buddhist temple as he did in church. He has also studied Islam extensively and is interested in all religions, but seems to favor Buddhist ideas of "enlightened" thinking, and often even interprets Jesus' teachings in Buddhist terms. I asked if he has witnessed "fire and brimstone" preaching when growing up, which he had, and we both agreed that it is often used as a form of manipulation by preachers. The problem is that hell seems unreasonable to most people, so we talked about why it is an appropriate punishment for disobeying a holy God. Despite his church upbringing, Dan still thought his goodness would save him if there was a judgment day, so I helped him take personal responsibility for his sin with exposure to some of God's 10 Commandments. "But God forgives me when I confess my sins to him, which I do all the time" he said, so I explained that there is a huge difference between legal forgiveness, which has to do with having a right standing before God through faith in Jesus who satisfies God's demand for justice, and relational forgiveness, which allows us to be in fellowship with God on a daily basis. I gave Dan a booklet which compares Christianity to other religions, and Dan said he will definitely read it soon.
11/18/09 Eric, about 35
I stopped Eric, a "Yuppie" type on a sidewalk in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood by asking if he believes in a higher power. "Actually, no, I don't" he said, and told me that he isn't sure why or when it happened, but he just sort of drifted away from his Catholic upbringing and belief in God. "My parents were just going through the motions anyway" he said. I told him that I am a Christian and am intrigued how people go through life without faith in God or hope for the future. He gave an honest, though vague answer, saying its not that hard, he just focuses on the present, and doesn't want to live like his religious friends who seem like they are working for God's approval. I agreed, and told him that most people know they aren't perfect, so the question is always whether they are being "good enough". Eric thought that if there really is a judgment day, then God would say he is a good person because he is generally good on his own without the motivation of reward or punishment. He was very confident of his own goodness so I gave him the "good person test" which personalizes the Ten Commandments. Toward the end Eric realized his guilt and I could see signs of discomfort as he swallowed hard, fidgeted, and tried to maintain his positive demeanor. He agreed he would deserve God's punishment, but when I asked if this was a concern he reminded me that he didn't believe in God. I could see he wasn't ready for the good news just yet. Pray that he will realize that his denial of God's existence won't excuse him from God's judgment.
I stopped Eric, a "Yuppie" type on a sidewalk in Chicago's Hyde Park neighborhood by asking if he believes in a higher power. "Actually, no, I don't" he said, and told me that he isn't sure why or when it happened, but he just sort of drifted away from his Catholic upbringing and belief in God. "My parents were just going through the motions anyway" he said. I told him that I am a Christian and am intrigued how people go through life without faith in God or hope for the future. He gave an honest, though vague answer, saying its not that hard, he just focuses on the present, and doesn't want to live like his religious friends who seem like they are working for God's approval. I agreed, and told him that most people know they aren't perfect, so the question is always whether they are being "good enough". Eric thought that if there really is a judgment day, then God would say he is a good person because he is generally good on his own without the motivation of reward or punishment. He was very confident of his own goodness so I gave him the "good person test" which personalizes the Ten Commandments. Toward the end Eric realized his guilt and I could see signs of discomfort as he swallowed hard, fidgeted, and tried to maintain his positive demeanor. He agreed he would deserve God's punishment, but when I asked if this was a concern he reminded me that he didn't believe in God. I could see he wasn't ready for the good news just yet. Pray that he will realize that his denial of God's existence won't excuse him from God's judgment.
11/17/09 Richard, about 70
I went to another crowded Burger King looking for a conversation by asking people for an informal interview. An impeccably dressed elderly gentleman at a table answered "It depends on what you are asking about". I said "I'd like to ask about your beliefs, for example, do you believe in a higher power?" "If you mean God than yes, I'm Catholic and I believe in God." He (Richard) told me he isn't sure if he believes in eternal life, however, and thinks that much of the Bible was made up by people. His doubts began on a tour of Israel he went on several years ago when his tour guide raised many questions that he didn't know how to answer. Richard really warmed up to our conversation and I could see he enjoyed the company. He loved to talk about anything so it was hard to stay on spiritual topics. He is fairly elderly and seemed kind of unsure of himself so out of respect I decided to avoid a more confrontational approach and just give him some friendly advice. I described how most people I talk to believe they are good enough to deserve to go to heaven, but the Bible says that we have all broken God's laws and deserve punishment. Jesus died to take the punishment for all who will trust in Him. We talked a long time and I enjoyed talking with him too. I felt bad when it came time to leave. I hope I see him again in heaven someday.
I went to another crowded Burger King looking for a conversation by asking people for an informal interview. An impeccably dressed elderly gentleman at a table answered "It depends on what you are asking about". I said "I'd like to ask about your beliefs, for example, do you believe in a higher power?" "If you mean God than yes, I'm Catholic and I believe in God." He (Richard) told me he isn't sure if he believes in eternal life, however, and thinks that much of the Bible was made up by people. His doubts began on a tour of Israel he went on several years ago when his tour guide raised many questions that he didn't know how to answer. Richard really warmed up to our conversation and I could see he enjoyed the company. He loved to talk about anything so it was hard to stay on spiritual topics. He is fairly elderly and seemed kind of unsure of himself so out of respect I decided to avoid a more confrontational approach and just give him some friendly advice. I described how most people I talk to believe they are good enough to deserve to go to heaven, but the Bible says that we have all broken God's laws and deserve punishment. Jesus died to take the punishment for all who will trust in Him. We talked a long time and I enjoyed talking with him too. I felt bad when it came time to leave. I hope I see him again in heaven someday.
11/16/09 Miguel, 20
Lately I've been realizing God has given me the boldness I need to witness, but I cover it up with my own fears and insecurity. Somehow this is very different from thinking I don't have God-given courage and therefore need to wait for Him to give it to me. I already have what I need! Today I walked into a crowded Burger King and asked Miguel, sitting at a table, if I could do an informal interview. "What about?" "Well, your spiritual beliefs, like do you believe there is a God?" The conversation was underway within 30 seconds of walking in the door. Miguel grew up a faithful Catholic in order to please his parents, but now says he believes in God but not the church. He says he will just "wait and see" what happens after he dies, but believes God just wants him to enjoy life while he has it. If there is judgment, he thinks he is more good than bad. He has stolen things "but that's in the past". I pointed out that if he stole something 10 minutes ago it would still be in the past and with God "one day is as 1,000 years" - time is of no consequence. He agreed that he is a liar, a thief, a blasphemer, and a murderer and adulterer at heart but said he would still be judged to be a good person "because I'm improving. I'm breaking God's laws less and less as I get older." I told him that if he lived a perfect life from here on in he would still be a lawbreaker. Miguel started to see my point - he had seen a glimpse of himself in the mirror of God's law - but unfortunately he had to get to work. He heard the law; may he read about grace in the literature I gave him.
Lately I've been realizing God has given me the boldness I need to witness, but I cover it up with my own fears and insecurity. Somehow this is very different from thinking I don't have God-given courage and therefore need to wait for Him to give it to me. I already have what I need! Today I walked into a crowded Burger King and asked Miguel, sitting at a table, if I could do an informal interview. "What about?" "Well, your spiritual beliefs, like do you believe there is a God?" The conversation was underway within 30 seconds of walking in the door. Miguel grew up a faithful Catholic in order to please his parents, but now says he believes in God but not the church. He says he will just "wait and see" what happens after he dies, but believes God just wants him to enjoy life while he has it. If there is judgment, he thinks he is more good than bad. He has stolen things "but that's in the past". I pointed out that if he stole something 10 minutes ago it would still be in the past and with God "one day is as 1,000 years" - time is of no consequence. He agreed that he is a liar, a thief, a blasphemer, and a murderer and adulterer at heart but said he would still be judged to be a good person "because I'm improving. I'm breaking God's laws less and less as I get older." I told him that if he lived a perfect life from here on in he would still be a lawbreaker. Miguel started to see my point - he had seen a glimpse of himself in the mirror of God's law - but unfortunately he had to get to work. He heard the law; may he read about grace in the literature I gave him.
11/15/09 Charlie, about 50
Conversations don't have to be long to be helpful. At the grocery store I gave a miilion dollar bill tract to Charlie and pointed out the question on the back. He proudly stated "Oh I know I'm going to heaven!" and told me that God would say he is a good person on judgment day. He also told me that he attends a Baptist church so I asked "If you can get to heaven by being a good person, then what did Jesus come for?" He thought for a while about that and said he really didn't know. "You've heard people say that Jesus died for our sins right?" He told me he had but I could tell that the significance of this statement had clearly lost its meaning for him. My guess is that he had heard it so many times that he no longer stopped to think of its implications. It had joined the ranks of so many biblical terms and phrases that have been misused and overused to the point that their rich meaning and all their implications have been lost to people. No wonder Jesus used parables and illustrations to convey spiritual truths. I went on to explain some things to Charlie - that if he is good like he believes he is, then he wouldn't need Jesus, and if it were possible for him to earn his way to heaven then the Father wouldn't have sacrificed his only Son on our behalf. I tried to remind him of everything he should be hearing in church. It was a quick conversation, but one he won't quickly forget and will hopefully remember the next time spiritual truths try to go in one ear and out the other at church.
Conversations don't have to be long to be helpful. At the grocery store I gave a miilion dollar bill tract to Charlie and pointed out the question on the back. He proudly stated "Oh I know I'm going to heaven!" and told me that God would say he is a good person on judgment day. He also told me that he attends a Baptist church so I asked "If you can get to heaven by being a good person, then what did Jesus come for?" He thought for a while about that and said he really didn't know. "You've heard people say that Jesus died for our sins right?" He told me he had but I could tell that the significance of this statement had clearly lost its meaning for him. My guess is that he had heard it so many times that he no longer stopped to think of its implications. It had joined the ranks of so many biblical terms and phrases that have been misused and overused to the point that their rich meaning and all their implications have been lost to people. No wonder Jesus used parables and illustrations to convey spiritual truths. I went on to explain some things to Charlie - that if he is good like he believes he is, then he wouldn't need Jesus, and if it were possible for him to earn his way to heaven then the Father wouldn't have sacrificed his only Son on our behalf. I tried to remind him of everything he should be hearing in church. It was a quick conversation, but one he won't quickly forget and will hopefully remember the next time spiritual truths try to go in one ear and out the other at church.
11/14/09 Matt, 15
I talk to people most often while out running errands so I am usually alone, but today I went with an evangelism group from church. We were at a park and even though we went our separate ways to talk with people there was something very encouraging about being able to say "I'm out here today with some friends from church and I'd like to ask about some of your beliefs" I stopped Matt, an Asian American, on the sidewalk this way and my request began a good conversation. He was raised Catholic and sent to a protestant Christian high school, but when he was transferred to a public high school he decided to renounce Christianity. "There are just too many contradictions" is what he told me. He also stated that he had never seen evidence for God's existence, so I asked "what kind of evidence would you need?" Matt really didn't know and agreed that it is possible that God does exist. When compared with the Ten Commandments Matt easily acknowledged his sin and agreed that if judged by God "I would end up in hell." "I can see why you'd rather believe that there is no God" I said and he agreed with me that his place in eternity will be far more important than this short life.
I talk to people most often while out running errands so I am usually alone, but today I went with an evangelism group from church. We were at a park and even though we went our separate ways to talk with people there was something very encouraging about being able to say "I'm out here today with some friends from church and I'd like to ask about some of your beliefs" I stopped Matt, an Asian American, on the sidewalk this way and my request began a good conversation. He was raised Catholic and sent to a protestant Christian high school, but when he was transferred to a public high school he decided to renounce Christianity. "There are just too many contradictions" is what he told me. He also stated that he had never seen evidence for God's existence, so I asked "what kind of evidence would you need?" Matt really didn't know and agreed that it is possible that God does exist. When compared with the Ten Commandments Matt easily acknowledged his sin and agreed that if judged by God "I would end up in hell." "I can see why you'd rather believe that there is no God" I said and he agreed with me that his place in eternity will be far more important than this short life.
11/13/09 Brian and Miles, about 20
I don't often stop to talk to people while driving down the street but on a whim - hopefully prompted by the Holy Spirit - I stopped to talk to Brian and Miles as they hung out on the sidewalk. Miles had just seen the movie "2012" about the end of the world and Brian had heard a lot about it, and they were very open to talking about spiritual things. They had both gone to Catholic high schools and were aware of the teachings of major world religions, but Brian had come to the conclusion that while he hoped for some sort of existence in the afterlife, "we all probably just turn into dirt." Miles told me he had no idea what comes after this life, but was very interested in talking about it. I had listened to their theories for 5 or 10 minutes when Brian asked "What about you? What do you believe?" I was glad he asked of course and explained biblical teachings about God, judgment day, and our accountability for our sin. I asked "Does the devil make us sin or do we decide to do it on our own?" which prompted some great answers and they asked "If God knows what we will do in advance do we have any choice about it?" I took them through some of the Ten Commandments and they both readily admitted to their sins, making no excuses. They were asking the same question the disciples asked Jesus - "Who then can be saved?" when the friends they had been waiting for arrived to pick them up. I was sorry our conversation had to end but was glad that at least I had some biblical info to give them. I believe they''ll read it.
I don't often stop to talk to people while driving down the street but on a whim - hopefully prompted by the Holy Spirit - I stopped to talk to Brian and Miles as they hung out on the sidewalk. Miles had just seen the movie "2012" about the end of the world and Brian had heard a lot about it, and they were very open to talking about spiritual things. They had both gone to Catholic high schools and were aware of the teachings of major world religions, but Brian had come to the conclusion that while he hoped for some sort of existence in the afterlife, "we all probably just turn into dirt." Miles told me he had no idea what comes after this life, but was very interested in talking about it. I had listened to their theories for 5 or 10 minutes when Brian asked "What about you? What do you believe?" I was glad he asked of course and explained biblical teachings about God, judgment day, and our accountability for our sin. I asked "Does the devil make us sin or do we decide to do it on our own?" which prompted some great answers and they asked "If God knows what we will do in advance do we have any choice about it?" I took them through some of the Ten Commandments and they both readily admitted to their sins, making no excuses. They were asking the same question the disciples asked Jesus - "Who then can be saved?" when the friends they had been waiting for arrived to pick them up. I was sorry our conversation had to end but was glad that at least I had some biblical info to give them. I believe they''ll read it.
11/12/09 Andre, about 35
His army beret-style hat, dark sunglasses and beard made him look like a black militant, but I found it was easy to start a conversation with Andre because he was in no hurry as he walked down the sidewalk and proved to be very good-natured. He agreed to answer a few questions about his spiritual beliefs, and told me he believes in God and that we will all be reincarnated as another person after we die, though further questions revealed a lot of contradictions in his thoughts. "We will be different people, that's why we can't remember our past lives except when we feel deja vu, but our next life will be a reward or punishment based on this life." He grew up in a Baptist family, but didn't seem to realize he had drifted away from his church roots until I pointed it out. He quickly forgot about his whole reincarnation theory and returned to biblical beliefs, though he still trusted in his own goodness and cheap grace for salvation. I reminded him of the punishment for sin and that it isn't cheap but cost God his precious Son on the cross. Talking with Andre was a reminder of what happens when we aren't regularly in God's word - we begin to form our own version of truth rather than God's, and I encouraged him to get back to the Bible.
His army beret-style hat, dark sunglasses and beard made him look like a black militant, but I found it was easy to start a conversation with Andre because he was in no hurry as he walked down the sidewalk and proved to be very good-natured. He agreed to answer a few questions about his spiritual beliefs, and told me he believes in God and that we will all be reincarnated as another person after we die, though further questions revealed a lot of contradictions in his thoughts. "We will be different people, that's why we can't remember our past lives except when we feel deja vu, but our next life will be a reward or punishment based on this life." He grew up in a Baptist family, but didn't seem to realize he had drifted away from his church roots until I pointed it out. He quickly forgot about his whole reincarnation theory and returned to biblical beliefs, though he still trusted in his own goodness and cheap grace for salvation. I reminded him of the punishment for sin and that it isn't cheap but cost God his precious Son on the cross. Talking with Andre was a reminder of what happens when we aren't regularly in God's word - we begin to form our own version of truth rather than God's, and I encouraged him to get back to the Bible.
11/11/09 Percy, about 70
On a sidewalk outside a shopping center I used a million dollar bill tract to start a conversation with a retired man named Percy. He had led a life of drinking and womanizing until he suddenly decided "I'm too old for this" and turned to the Lord. He said that every time he receives his pension check, he thinks about how he had lived and says to himself "I don't deserve this money" and believes that is how he will also feel that way about heaven. His faith is in Jesus for salvation, but he isn't involved in a church and often turns to some Jehovah's Witnesses and TV preachers when he has questions about the Bible. He had many questions for me as well. I warned him of some pitfalls to watch out for when going to these sources for advice, and that he needs to be involved in a local fellowship, not just for what he can receive but for what he can contribute to others. He thoughtfuly said "that's a good point" and I hope and pray he will get involved in a local Bible-based church.
On a sidewalk outside a shopping center I used a million dollar bill tract to start a conversation with a retired man named Percy. He had led a life of drinking and womanizing until he suddenly decided "I'm too old for this" and turned to the Lord. He said that every time he receives his pension check, he thinks about how he had lived and says to himself "I don't deserve this money" and believes that is how he will also feel that way about heaven. His faith is in Jesus for salvation, but he isn't involved in a church and often turns to some Jehovah's Witnesses and TV preachers when he has questions about the Bible. He had many questions for me as well. I warned him of some pitfalls to watch out for when going to these sources for advice, and that he needs to be involved in a local fellowship, not just for what he can receive but for what he can contribute to others. He thoughtfuly said "that's a good point" and I hope and pray he will get involved in a local Bible-based church.
11/10/09 Mitchell, Matthew, Kevin
On my way home after work I stopped to go for a walk, pray and hopefully start a conversation. Three brothers were hanging out on their front porch. They hadn't thought much about spiritual things, but Mitchell, 18, believed that God and the devil would basically argue over the his fate on judgment day and that his good intentions would allow him into heaven. I explained that the Bible teaches that hell was created by God as a place of punishment for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41), so the judgment belongs to God alone. "If God created heaven and hell, then He decides who goes where and must judge us by some standard. Wouldn't it be good to know about that standard ahead of time, before its too late?" They agreed and listened attentively as I explained about their guilt in breaking God's commandments and God's grace in allowing His Son to take the punishment we deserve. They ignored outside distractions and cell phone calls, listening attentively to the end. I think it was a lot for them to wrap their minds around, beginning with me as an adult appearing out of the blue to talk about such things, so I kept it short, simple, and logical. If they are like me when I was their age, they might not remember all or even much of what I said, but they'll remember that it made sense and that an adult cared enough to stop and explain it to them. I think God may use our conversation as one step in their journey.
On my way home after work I stopped to go for a walk, pray and hopefully start a conversation. Three brothers were hanging out on their front porch. They hadn't thought much about spiritual things, but Mitchell, 18, believed that God and the devil would basically argue over the his fate on judgment day and that his good intentions would allow him into heaven. I explained that the Bible teaches that hell was created by God as a place of punishment for the devil and his angels (Matthew 25:41), so the judgment belongs to God alone. "If God created heaven and hell, then He decides who goes where and must judge us by some standard. Wouldn't it be good to know about that standard ahead of time, before its too late?" They agreed and listened attentively as I explained about their guilt in breaking God's commandments and God's grace in allowing His Son to take the punishment we deserve. They ignored outside distractions and cell phone calls, listening attentively to the end. I think it was a lot for them to wrap their minds around, beginning with me as an adult appearing out of the blue to talk about such things, so I kept it short, simple, and logical. If they are like me when I was their age, they might not remember all or even much of what I said, but they'll remember that it made sense and that an adult cared enough to stop and explain it to them. I think God may use our conversation as one step in their journey.
I1/9/09 Tanya, about 30
All was quiet on the bus from Minnesota for a few minutes until two "drama queens" boarded, carrying on loud cell phone conversations. These women didn't seem to care that everyone else on the bus could hear their childish arguments with ex-boyfriends, ugly gossip with girlfriends, or profanity-filled ranting at their children. There was no attempt to tone down their voices or hold back on embarrassing details, and it was impossible not to eavesdrop. I didn't even think about being a witness to these women until one called a friend who apparently acted as a sounding board as she shared her problems and asked for advice. "I haven't had a man in so long, should I just go sleep around with anyone I meet? I'm through with relationships and all the games these men play" she asked her friend. I had no wish to talk to this woman, but I believe the Lord really caused me to see her as a lost sheep needing direction, and I began to imagine what it would be like to see her getting off the bus in Milwaukee without even an attempt on my part to talk to her. "Excuse me, I don't mean to be offensive, but I really feel led to talk to you about a few things." I said across the aisle. After she figured out that I was sharing about the Lord her eyes grew wide and she quietly said "Go on, I need to hear this. I know God sent you to talk with me". I had to agree. Though she had a church background, Tanya had never heard the Gospel explained in the context of God's law, and she had many questions. She had used God as she needed Him to get what she wanted, and one commandment that seemed to really convict her was when I explained the kind of attitude we have toward God when we take His Name in vain. The other woman listened in to our half-hour conversation, along with possibly many other passengers, and afterward the bus was strangely silent. I hoped and prayed that Tanya was thinking it all through and responding to God's truth. When she got off in Milwaukee, she thanked me for talking to her, saying again that she really believed God sent me to talk to her that day.
All was quiet on the bus from Minnesota for a few minutes until two "drama queens" boarded, carrying on loud cell phone conversations. These women didn't seem to care that everyone else on the bus could hear their childish arguments with ex-boyfriends, ugly gossip with girlfriends, or profanity-filled ranting at their children. There was no attempt to tone down their voices or hold back on embarrassing details, and it was impossible not to eavesdrop. I didn't even think about being a witness to these women until one called a friend who apparently acted as a sounding board as she shared her problems and asked for advice. "I haven't had a man in so long, should I just go sleep around with anyone I meet? I'm through with relationships and all the games these men play" she asked her friend. I had no wish to talk to this woman, but I believe the Lord really caused me to see her as a lost sheep needing direction, and I began to imagine what it would be like to see her getting off the bus in Milwaukee without even an attempt on my part to talk to her. "Excuse me, I don't mean to be offensive, but I really feel led to talk to you about a few things." I said across the aisle. After she figured out that I was sharing about the Lord her eyes grew wide and she quietly said "Go on, I need to hear this. I know God sent you to talk with me". I had to agree. Though she had a church background, Tanya had never heard the Gospel explained in the context of God's law, and she had many questions. She had used God as she needed Him to get what she wanted, and one commandment that seemed to really convict her was when I explained the kind of attitude we have toward God when we take His Name in vain. The other woman listened in to our half-hour conversation, along with possibly many other passengers, and afterward the bus was strangely silent. I hoped and prayed that Tanya was thinking it all through and responding to God's truth. When she got off in Milwaukee, she thanked me for talking to her, saying again that she really believed God sent me to talk to her that day.
I1/8/09 Three Deer Hunters
Up north at the hunting cabin I usually don't talk to anyone but my own group, so when I went for a jog and passed by another hunting camp I knew it would be my only opportunity to share my faith that day. However, men with rifles and beer, skinning the carcasses of the deer they have shot can seem pretty intimidating. I had to jog past their camp a few times before I worked up the courage to talk to them. I believe God has given me the boldness I need, but I cover it over with my own fear and excuses. With a lot in common as hunters and Minnesotans, we had a very friendly and polite conversation, so much that I didn't want to spoil it with talk of something controversial like religion. This is the Minnesota way, and that of polite society everywhere. I gave them each a million dollar tract and explained what they were for, told them about the good person test on the back, asking if they were good people. "Oh yeah, I am", the older man told me, saying that he was a Methodist. I told them "Well I failed it myself", and asked them to read them later while they were up in their deer stands. Not wanting to wear out my welcome I said goodbye and they thanked me for stopping. I thought later that their same politeness that I didn't want to offend would have also allowed me to freely share the Gospel. I wasn't as bold as I wanted to be - I didn't even get their names - but hopefully I'm moving in the right direction, one step at a time.
Up north at the hunting cabin I usually don't talk to anyone but my own group, so when I went for a jog and passed by another hunting camp I knew it would be my only opportunity to share my faith that day. However, men with rifles and beer, skinning the carcasses of the deer they have shot can seem pretty intimidating. I had to jog past their camp a few times before I worked up the courage to talk to them. I believe God has given me the boldness I need, but I cover it over with my own fear and excuses. With a lot in common as hunters and Minnesotans, we had a very friendly and polite conversation, so much that I didn't want to spoil it with talk of something controversial like religion. This is the Minnesota way, and that of polite society everywhere. I gave them each a million dollar tract and explained what they were for, told them about the good person test on the back, asking if they were good people. "Oh yeah, I am", the older man told me, saying that he was a Methodist. I told them "Well I failed it myself", and asked them to read them later while they were up in their deer stands. Not wanting to wear out my welcome I said goodbye and they thanked me for stopping. I thought later that their same politeness that I didn't want to offend would have also allowed me to freely share the Gospel. I wasn't as bold as I wanted to be - I didn't even get their names - but hopefully I'm moving in the right direction, one step at a time.
11/6/09 Joe, about 30
Fear of man and the dreaded raised eyebrow continues to plague me. I pass by many opportunities to share the Gospel before I work up the courage to start a conversation. How do I finally choose who to talk to? I'd like to say the Holy Spirit directly guides me, but too often it just happens to be the first person in my path when I finally step out of my comfort zone. Can God work through me this way? I believe He does, but I'd like to consistently get to a point where God works with me rather than in spite of me. I have a long way to go.
Out for a jog on a lonely stretch of road in Minnesota, I thought I might not have many opportunities for a conversation that day, so I decided to try to talk to the first person I saw. Well, it turned out to be a bicyclist coming fast from the opposite direction. Do I want to try to flag this guy down? He won't stop! The next person was a man working in his garage at the end of a long driveway with his dog barking angrily. The dog will probably attack me.. I kept jogging. A woman pushing a stroller? I might scare her. A guy raking leaves? Probably too busy to talk. I came into a more heavily populated area where many people were outside doing yardwork or other various projects, but the excuses came to me just as fast as the opportunities. I didn't stop to talk to the last ten people, so why would I stop for this one? Almost at the end of my jogging route, I apologized to God for my fear and procrastination and asked for one more chance. I rounded a corner and came across Joe, raking leaves at the edge of the road. After some conversation I found out he would be spending the weekend deer hunting like myself, so I said "Hey, I have an interesting question that will give you something to think about while you sit in your deer stand all weekend." "Sure, what is it?" I asked what he thought will come next after this life. "Well, I used to be a Christian and went through catechism, but I gave all that up. I don't think there's any way we can know, and I really don't care one way or the other." Joe had grown up in a Christian home, but rejected the faith once he moved out on his own. I asked how he would be judged if the Bible is true about heaven, hell and God's judgment. He thought he would do well at first, until my questions about individual commandments helped him to realize his guilt in breaking them. He said he had broken each of them except Jesus' teaching that calling someone a name in anger is like murder. "I keep a pretty tight reign" on my emotions he said. This explained to me why, when he admitted his guilt and said he would probably end up in hell, he told me he wasn't all that concerned about it. I explained the Gospel as clearly as I knew how and could tell that despite his "Christian upbringing" it was fairly new to him. "Does this give you a few things to think about in your deer stand?" "Not really" he said, but I didn't believe him, knowing that our Minnesotan stoicism can be very deceptive.
Fear of man and the dreaded raised eyebrow continues to plague me. I pass by many opportunities to share the Gospel before I work up the courage to start a conversation. How do I finally choose who to talk to? I'd like to say the Holy Spirit directly guides me, but too often it just happens to be the first person in my path when I finally step out of my comfort zone. Can God work through me this way? I believe He does, but I'd like to consistently get to a point where God works with me rather than in spite of me. I have a long way to go.
Out for a jog on a lonely stretch of road in Minnesota, I thought I might not have many opportunities for a conversation that day, so I decided to try to talk to the first person I saw. Well, it turned out to be a bicyclist coming fast from the opposite direction. Do I want to try to flag this guy down? He won't stop! The next person was a man working in his garage at the end of a long driveway with his dog barking angrily. The dog will probably attack me.. I kept jogging. A woman pushing a stroller? I might scare her. A guy raking leaves? Probably too busy to talk. I came into a more heavily populated area where many people were outside doing yardwork or other various projects, but the excuses came to me just as fast as the opportunities. I didn't stop to talk to the last ten people, so why would I stop for this one? Almost at the end of my jogging route, I apologized to God for my fear and procrastination and asked for one more chance. I rounded a corner and came across Joe, raking leaves at the edge of the road. After some conversation I found out he would be spending the weekend deer hunting like myself, so I said "Hey, I have an interesting question that will give you something to think about while you sit in your deer stand all weekend." "Sure, what is it?" I asked what he thought will come next after this life. "Well, I used to be a Christian and went through catechism, but I gave all that up. I don't think there's any way we can know, and I really don't care one way or the other." Joe had grown up in a Christian home, but rejected the faith once he moved out on his own. I asked how he would be judged if the Bible is true about heaven, hell and God's judgment. He thought he would do well at first, until my questions about individual commandments helped him to realize his guilt in breaking them. He said he had broken each of them except Jesus' teaching that calling someone a name in anger is like murder. "I keep a pretty tight reign" on my emotions he said. This explained to me why, when he admitted his guilt and said he would probably end up in hell, he told me he wasn't all that concerned about it. I explained the Gospel as clearly as I knew how and could tell that despite his "Christian upbringing" it was fairly new to him. "Does this give you a few things to think about in your deer stand?" "Not really" he said, but I didn't believe him, knowing that our Minnesotan stoicism can be very deceptive.
11/05/09 Frank, about 45
Late at night in downtown Chicago, Frank seemed like a typical street hustler when he asked me if I had any cigarette rolling papers. I told him "No, but here's a million dollar bill" and gave him the money tract which brought a laugh and a good conversation. I talked Frank through several commandments, and he seemed truly convicted, but then he started to treat me like a pastor, asking for advice about whether to divorce his wife who has become a drug addict and left him to sleep around with other men. Frank claimed to have been drug free for 17 years, but said that when his wife left he became addicted to gambling. He went on to describe some recent health concerns. I felt like he really did need pastoral counseling and asked if he had any church connections, but this opened up another can of worms because his church sounded like it had more problems than he did. I began to try to bring the focus back to his primary need - his need for righteousness (a right relationship with God), knowing that his other problems can then begin to fall into place, but then I realized I was in danger of missing my bus for my out of town trip. I offered up a pastoral prayer for Frank, who had said several times that God sent me to him just when he needed to hear from Him the most, and shared my contact info which he asked for before I left.
Late at night in downtown Chicago, Frank seemed like a typical street hustler when he asked me if I had any cigarette rolling papers. I told him "No, but here's a million dollar bill" and gave him the money tract which brought a laugh and a good conversation. I talked Frank through several commandments, and he seemed truly convicted, but then he started to treat me like a pastor, asking for advice about whether to divorce his wife who has become a drug addict and left him to sleep around with other men. Frank claimed to have been drug free for 17 years, but said that when his wife left he became addicted to gambling. He went on to describe some recent health concerns. I felt like he really did need pastoral counseling and asked if he had any church connections, but this opened up another can of worms because his church sounded like it had more problems than he did. I began to try to bring the focus back to his primary need - his need for righteousness (a right relationship with God), knowing that his other problems can then begin to fall into place, but then I realized I was in danger of missing my bus for my out of town trip. I offered up a pastoral prayer for Frank, who had said several times that God sent me to him just when he needed to hear from Him the most, and shared my contact info which he asked for before I left.
11/05/09 Don, about 50
At Chicago's Union Station I asked one man sitting at a table if I could get his opinion on a few things. "Get out of here, can't you see I'm reading?' he instantly yelled, loudly. That was the first time I have ever been blatantly rejected. A few months ago, this would have been my worst nightmare, but my initial reaction today was that this man had a serious problem, and it wasn't me. At the next table, Don, who was working on his laptop, graciously agreed to answer my questions, and he told me he believes we can't know our fate after we die so he doesn't think we can do anything about it. He said, "It's like spitting off a bridge. Once you do it, you can't take it back." This made me think (wrongly) that he was well aware of his sin and guilt before God, so I failed to use the Ten Commandments to stir his conscience as usual. Without his awareness of his own need for forgiveness and salvation from the punishment he personally deserves, my attempts at explaining his need for Christ seemed pretty lame, like just another religious spiel - to both of us. He quickly returned his thoughts to his immediate concern which was that he had been the victim of identity theft, and he impatiently asked me to finish what I had to say. I told him I could understand that what he was going through would make it hard to think about much else, and gave him something to read later when he could. I think I learned far more from our "conversation" than he did.
At Chicago's Union Station I asked one man sitting at a table if I could get his opinion on a few things. "Get out of here, can't you see I'm reading?' he instantly yelled, loudly. That was the first time I have ever been blatantly rejected. A few months ago, this would have been my worst nightmare, but my initial reaction today was that this man had a serious problem, and it wasn't me. At the next table, Don, who was working on his laptop, graciously agreed to answer my questions, and he told me he believes we can't know our fate after we die so he doesn't think we can do anything about it. He said, "It's like spitting off a bridge. Once you do it, you can't take it back." This made me think (wrongly) that he was well aware of his sin and guilt before God, so I failed to use the Ten Commandments to stir his conscience as usual. Without his awareness of his own need for forgiveness and salvation from the punishment he personally deserves, my attempts at explaining his need for Christ seemed pretty lame, like just another religious spiel - to both of us. He quickly returned his thoughts to his immediate concern which was that he had been the victim of identity theft, and he impatiently asked me to finish what I had to say. I told him I could understand that what he was going through would make it hard to think about much else, and gave him something to read later when he could. I think I learned far more from our "conversation" than he did.
11/4/09 Mark, about 45
Ministry with a heroin addict, who told me he wanted to go to rehab, led me to wait to meet him at one of Chicago's many active drug dealing intersections, so while there I decided to start some conversations. One man I talked to, Mark, was selling DVD's as a cover for his drug dealing. With sad resignation in his voice, he told me about his many stints in prison and that he "done a lot of bad" in his life and would go to hell for it. He is hooked on drugs himself, and firmly believes he must repent of his sins if he is to be saved which he is both unwilling and unable to do. I tried to explain that the good works of repentance don't save us, but are instead a result of our gratitude for what Jesus has already done for us on the cross. At the same time, it would seem pretty lame to tell Mark he doesn't have to give up his drugs to follow Jesus, or to simply say he just needs to hate it and want to quit. I didn't really know what to tell him. Like all conversations, I am simply planting seeds and hoping God will make them grow, but Mark really reminded me what a miraculous work of God repentance really is.
Ministry with a heroin addict, who told me he wanted to go to rehab, led me to wait to meet him at one of Chicago's many active drug dealing intersections, so while there I decided to start some conversations. One man I talked to, Mark, was selling DVD's as a cover for his drug dealing. With sad resignation in his voice, he told me about his many stints in prison and that he "done a lot of bad" in his life and would go to hell for it. He is hooked on drugs himself, and firmly believes he must repent of his sins if he is to be saved which he is both unwilling and unable to do. I tried to explain that the good works of repentance don't save us, but are instead a result of our gratitude for what Jesus has already done for us on the cross. At the same time, it would seem pretty lame to tell Mark he doesn't have to give up his drugs to follow Jesus, or to simply say he just needs to hate it and want to quit. I didn't really know what to tell him. Like all conversations, I am simply planting seeds and hoping God will make them grow, but Mark really reminded me what a miraculous work of God repentance really is.
11/03/09 Jean, about 50
While I was out for a jog, Jean was standing on a corner, smoking and waiting for a friend to pick her up. I told her "I'll give you this million dollar bill if you can tell me what the million dollar question is on the back" She knew it obviously wasn't real but good-naturedly went along with the game. "Hmmm" she thought hard .I told her. "It will be the most important question anyone could ever ask, and the only question on our mind when we die" Even the serious nature of my clue didn't wipe the smile off her face because Jean, like most people, likes a riddle. "Are you happy?" she guessed. I told her that wasn't it and after a minute or so gave her the answer - "Will you go to heaven?" "You're right, that would be pretty important" she agreed. This led very naturally to the "Good Person Test" which personalizes the Ten Commandments and Jean, agreeing with me - a complete stranger - that she is a liar, a thief, a blasphemer and a murderer at heart. The effectiveness of using the law as a mirror to show people their true nature before a holy God continues to amaze me. I explained to Jean that she can't use good works of any kind to "bribe" God into ignoring the just punishment she deserves, and then I shared the best news ever - John 3:16 - which now made a lot more sense to her. She shook my hand, saying "I really like the way you put that" as she got into her friends car. I really like the way God puts it, using His law to show us our need for salvation through Jesus and the cross.
While I was out for a jog, Jean was standing on a corner, smoking and waiting for a friend to pick her up. I told her "I'll give you this million dollar bill if you can tell me what the million dollar question is on the back" She knew it obviously wasn't real but good-naturedly went along with the game. "Hmmm" she thought hard .I told her. "It will be the most important question anyone could ever ask, and the only question on our mind when we die" Even the serious nature of my clue didn't wipe the smile off her face because Jean, like most people, likes a riddle. "Are you happy?" she guessed. I told her that wasn't it and after a minute or so gave her the answer - "Will you go to heaven?" "You're right, that would be pretty important" she agreed. This led very naturally to the "Good Person Test" which personalizes the Ten Commandments and Jean, agreeing with me - a complete stranger - that she is a liar, a thief, a blasphemer and a murderer at heart. The effectiveness of using the law as a mirror to show people their true nature before a holy God continues to amaze me. I explained to Jean that she can't use good works of any kind to "bribe" God into ignoring the just punishment she deserves, and then I shared the best news ever - John 3:16 - which now made a lot more sense to her. She shook my hand, saying "I really like the way you put that" as she got into her friends car. I really like the way God puts it, using His law to show us our need for salvation through Jesus and the cross.
11/02/09 Francisco, about 35
I stopped at the park after work and used a million dollar tract to start a conversation with Francisco, who was walking his pit bull, Linda. He believes he will go to heaven, but although he is Catholic, he has chosen not to believe in hell. It was a beautiful day, with fall colors all around us, and I told him that while we can love and appreciate life, we only have a brief time here and we need to also prepare for eternity. The Bible teaches that we will all live forever but that where we spend eternity is what is really important. Hell is hard to talk about, but it helped when I pointed out that its purpose is not torture, but punishment. "Do you believe God is just and will punish sin?" Francisco, thinking of heinous crimes such as mass murder, agreed, especially when I pointed out that large numbers of murderers are never caught. I then used some of the commandments to help Francisco realize the consequences of his own sin. Although he was very stoic, he seemed truly concerned and wanted to know how he could be forgiven. I told him of salvation through faith in Christ and the repentance that confirms saving faith. Francisco thanked me for stopping to explain all this to him and gladly took the additional info I gave him.
I stopped at the park after work and used a million dollar tract to start a conversation with Francisco, who was walking his pit bull, Linda. He believes he will go to heaven, but although he is Catholic, he has chosen not to believe in hell. It was a beautiful day, with fall colors all around us, and I told him that while we can love and appreciate life, we only have a brief time here and we need to also prepare for eternity. The Bible teaches that we will all live forever but that where we spend eternity is what is really important. Hell is hard to talk about, but it helped when I pointed out that its purpose is not torture, but punishment. "Do you believe God is just and will punish sin?" Francisco, thinking of heinous crimes such as mass murder, agreed, especially when I pointed out that large numbers of murderers are never caught. I then used some of the commandments to help Francisco realize the consequences of his own sin. Although he was very stoic, he seemed truly concerned and wanted to know how he could be forgiven. I told him of salvation through faith in Christ and the repentance that confirms saving faith. Francisco thanked me for stopping to explain all this to him and gladly took the additional info I gave him.
11/1/09 William, about 60 Natasha, about 19
Both have a church background but they also have some differences: one old, one young; one black, one white; they live about a block but a world apart - the IIT campus and Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood. Our conversations happened one right after another. William told me he believes in "the 60-40 rule" where if he is good 60% of the time, it will make up for the 40% of the time he is bad. "Where is that found in the Bible?" I asked and William had to admit he made it up. I asked questions which personalized the Ten Commandments and helped him realize that he can't earn his way to heaven. What amazed me was that after a lifetime of church attendance he didn't know of any other way. He doesn't read his Bible, and his practice of religion has degenerated into doing just enough to make him feel confident of salvation. I explained how the punishment he deserves has been paid on the cross, but I got the impression that he has become calloused to it - the result of belief without repentance. Natasha, on the other hand, whom I talked to while she was smoking outside her dorm, realized that she "had lost faith in Jesus" and has turned to Sikhism, a form of Hinduism. She grew up in a Pentecostal church, attending 3 times a week for much of her life, but ultimately rejected Christianity for a religion that doesn't believe in sin or its consequences, judgment or heaven and hell. At least Natasha knows where she stands - she openly admits she rejects Jesus - but William doesn't realize his faith is not in Christ but in his own goodness. They have some differences, but they both need our prayers.
Both have a church background but they also have some differences: one old, one young; one black, one white; they live about a block but a world apart - the IIT campus and Chicago's Bronzeville neighborhood. Our conversations happened one right after another. William told me he believes in "the 60-40 rule" where if he is good 60% of the time, it will make up for the 40% of the time he is bad. "Where is that found in the Bible?" I asked and William had to admit he made it up. I asked questions which personalized the Ten Commandments and helped him realize that he can't earn his way to heaven. What amazed me was that after a lifetime of church attendance he didn't know of any other way. He doesn't read his Bible, and his practice of religion has degenerated into doing just enough to make him feel confident of salvation. I explained how the punishment he deserves has been paid on the cross, but I got the impression that he has become calloused to it - the result of belief without repentance. Natasha, on the other hand, whom I talked to while she was smoking outside her dorm, realized that she "had lost faith in Jesus" and has turned to Sikhism, a form of Hinduism. She grew up in a Pentecostal church, attending 3 times a week for much of her life, but ultimately rejected Christianity for a religion that doesn't believe in sin or its consequences, judgment or heaven and hell. At least Natasha knows where she stands - she openly admits she rejects Jesus - but William doesn't realize his faith is not in Christ but in his own goodness. They have some differences, but they both need our prayers.
10/31/09 Roy, about 50
On Halloween I walked with Jonathan from church looking to start gospel conversations. One guy we talked to had just left the store with two big cases of beer. I asked if he would tell me his opinions on an important question. He looked curious. "What do you think happens after this life, where will you be?" He set the beer down and straightened up. "Believe it or not, even though I have all this beer, I do believe in Jesus, and I know I don't deserve heaven but Jesus went to the cross to pay the penalty for my sin." He told us how he has been clean from drugs for over 20 years but just can't kick his drinking problem, especially after his wife passed away. He isn't involved in a church, though he said he was considering checking out the Jehovah's Witnesses. I warned him of the Jehovah's Witnesses' false doctrine of salvation by works, and invited him to attend our church or any Bible based church. "God has made us in such a way that we can't go it alone. We need each other, and the church is designed to fill that need," I told him and before we left we prayed for Roy right there on the sidewalk.
On Halloween I walked with Jonathan from church looking to start gospel conversations. One guy we talked to had just left the store with two big cases of beer. I asked if he would tell me his opinions on an important question. He looked curious. "What do you think happens after this life, where will you be?" He set the beer down and straightened up. "Believe it or not, even though I have all this beer, I do believe in Jesus, and I know I don't deserve heaven but Jesus went to the cross to pay the penalty for my sin." He told us how he has been clean from drugs for over 20 years but just can't kick his drinking problem, especially after his wife passed away. He isn't involved in a church, though he said he was considering checking out the Jehovah's Witnesses. I warned him of the Jehovah's Witnesses' false doctrine of salvation by works, and invited him to attend our church or any Bible based church. "God has made us in such a way that we can't go it alone. We need each other, and the church is designed to fill that need," I told him and before we left we prayed for Roy right there on the sidewalk.
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