I asked my friend the question, "How do you seek to make a Kingdom impact with the gospel in the community?" When my friend heard the question, he almost answered apologetically. I think he thought I was about to ask him to do something else, or to take on a new project. My friend then began to answer by saying he believes he is simply called to make a Kingdom impact by being available in the relationships he has. He then began to share examples of being available when non-Christian friends asked him questions about the gospel, about helping his neighbors when they were in need, and of trying to lovingly engage his family in conversations that mattered.
When he finished trying to answer my question, he said that he just really didn't have the time for a new program. My response was "GOOD!" You see, what my friend answered, almost apologetically, was essentially the way I believe we are called to be salt and light in this community. I believe we are called to live with a gospel intentionality, wherever we are. So where are you? Where do you live? Where do you work..or for the kids, where is your school? Where do you play? Those places are where we are called to live with a gospel intentionality…with those people.
My friend was right. I don’t believe Scripture is telling us to do the latest and greatest program. I don’t believe Scripture is calling us to the newest gimmick that will bring people in the door. I do believe Scripture is calling us to not just say we are Christians, but to live as if we have been transformed by the heart changing, eternity shaping love of Christ. In other words, live the life you are living, but do so with a gospel intentionality where you live, work and play…all for the glory of God.
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:8
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