On the first day of the week, I was reminded of who Jesus is. I was challenged to come expectantly to corporate worship. I was encouraged to be a witness throughout the week. Then Monday came.
But Monday morning was great! I had an early morning coffee with Jon. I met Jon at the Starbucks just down the street. One day we were putting cream in our coffee at the same time and I asked, “How are you?” Jon actually answered the question and I took the time to listen. He told me he wasn’t doing well and that he was just about to get in his car and drive to a job he hated. I told him I was sorry to hear that. He then asked how I was doing. I can’t remember my answer.
I saw him the following week, chatted with him in the line for coffee and asked whether he wanted to get together some time. He said, “Sure.” I said, “Well what about next week on Monday?” He said, “Sure.”
So we got together this morning. I spent an hour and a half asking Jon about his life and his thoughts about church. To be honest, his interactions with Christians have not been positive. Most of the Christians he’s met have been interested in converting, rather than loving him. He’s also had a tough life. I listened 95% of the time. Eventually, both of us had to get to work. I walked him out to his car. He thanked me for listening. He said, “The next time we get together, you can share your story.” I told him I’d appreciate that.
Before he got into his car he told me that if I had tried to evangelize him he would have gotten up and left. I told him that what we were doing was my model of evangelism. I think it surprised him. I told Jon that I woke up that morning and prayed God would use me to bless him. I also said that I expected God to speak to me through him (Jon). He said, “Thank you.” It was a great morning.
What about you? What stories do you have to share? What questions do you have about my story or about what it means to be a witness? I look forward to reading your posts.
Posted on
Mon, June 2, 2008
by Jason Brown