In the midst of ministry, I have begun to discover the significance of just spending time with people. Some may call this incarnational ministry. Handing a stranger a flyer and saying “come to our church” may work on occasion, but this is not the depth of the calling of Jesus followers. Earning trust can be a long process that often takes multiple contacts with people. The first time I went to a sports event of one of my youth group teens, it was a little akward. But, several concerts and volleyball games down the road, I realize that it’s worth the effort. If you become a part of a person’s life and see their struggles and joys, your perspective will change. You are no longer an outsider trying to figure out a way to get in, but one who stands next to a person and cares deeply for them. I’m reminded of a quote from the movie Save the Last Dance: “Don’t be here just to be here. Take a look around.” When you speak, this person will be more likely to listen because you have earned the right to speak truth into their lives. This is not to say that spreading the gospel can only happen in this context. The Holy Spirit works in countless ways. And, total strangers need Jesus, too.
Tags: church, Cross-Cultural Ministry, Incarnational, incarnational ministry, ministry
