9AM Worship

I was sitting in a restaurant when I was approached by a young man selling flowers. Setting aside for a moment how socially inappropriate that was, and realizing he was dressed in the garb of a particular religious group, I began asking him questions. “What got you involved with the group you are a part of?” “How is this group helping you?” “What do you know about Jesus and Christian faith?” The conversation took him in a direction he did not expect. He simply wanted a dollar or two, possibly pass out some printed material. But my recollection of our encounter was that it was natural, comfortable, easy, positive. I don’t always get these encounters right but when I do it is a moment of beauty. This young man did not kneel in that restaurant, confess his sins, become a Christian … but I believe the Holy Spirit was present, and his soul (re)introduced to Jesus. 

When was the last time we had an opportunity to personally and directly talk to another about faith? I’m not talking a monologue. I’m talking about a genuine, generous, back and forth conversation on what really matters. If Christian faith is true, then these discussions are of absolute and eternal value. And yet, often we do not know where to begin. We do not want to offend. We aren’t sure what to say. We do not want to come across offensive and insensitive. Last fall (2023) I taught a series of sermons titled, “Walk Across the Room.” We focused on sharing our Christian faith with others in natural and non-offensive (as far as we are able) ways. Paul picks up this same theme in our passage today. His example will help us hear the Holy Spirit, follow the Holy Spirit, and speak when and where God leads. When we do, He is present … and it is beautiful!