Day 60- What a Smile!

I've heard it said that 90% of communication is non-verbal. Today I pulled up to a lady working at a toll booth. When I arrived she informed me of the cost of the toll and I asked how she was doing. After she responded with a generic "fine," she then asked how I was doing. My response was passionate and with a big smile, "I am blessed! What about you? Do you have a church background?" The lady's face shifted from a focused and business look to a bright shining smile. She told me that she did and where she attended. Her smile made my day, and it only took 30 seconds.

Day 59-Sharing with Fear

Witnessing to people at sporting events can be difficult, especially if the game is in progress. I am beginning to learn that in every sporting event there is a time-out, halftime, or short break. On day 59, I found myself rooting for the same team as the young couple sitting next to me. During the game we made comments back in forth, so when there was a break I shifted from the natural to the spiritual.

Me: Where are you guys from?
Couple: Ardmore.
Me: Do you have a church in Ardmore?
Couple: Yes. We go to...
Me: Do they have gospel tracts at your church like these (handing them a million dollar bill)?
Couple: No (laughing).

At this point I watched the young lady read the tract. I was careful not to interrupt as she read. Once she had finished reading, she placed the tract in her purse.

Me: What did you think? Is that the gospel as you know it?
Girl: Yes.

This is how I share the gospel with someone sitting next to me and will probably be next to me for several minutes. I let the tract talk. This way they take it out on the tract instead of me if they are offended. :)

Day 58-Go Get a Beer!

On day 58, I found myself staying in a hotel with multiple events and a lot of partying. The constant smell of cigarette smoke reminded me of Europe. Although second hand smoke is very harmful, smokers make a great fishing hole. (Quick tip: always see how much cigarette is left to determine how much time you may have to share, and remember, they will start smoking faster when you bring up heaven and hell). I arrived back to my hotel late one night and noticed three men out for a smoke/vodka break. I greeted them with a few tracts in hand.

Me: Gentlemen, did you get one of these? It's a gospel tract. Do any of you have a Christian background?
Smokers: Yes.
Me: Do you believe in a heaven and a hell?
Smokers: (All with smiles) You know, that is a very good question. Thank you for your time. Go inside and get a beer.
I can take a hint. This is code for get lost, you're killing my buzz.
Me: Read that tract when you get a chance. Have a good night.

Why bother people that are completely content with their cigarette and drink? Well, the love of Christ compels me.