A Leading Question
We used surveys to initiate spiritual conversations with strangers.
As we initiated conversations we received various responses.
Sunday, June 15
This afternoon our summer project headed out into Chicago with the goal of starting spiritual conversations.
Our group went to Millennium Park in downtown. Thousands of people were scattered around the 24-acre park. Some were eating picnic lunches while listening to an orchestra play at the outdoor amphitheater. Others were taking pictures by the "bean," a large reflecting sculpture shaped like a jellybean. Hundreds more were playing in a fountain and the adjoining reflecting pool.
We set out in groups of 2 and 3, armed with spiritual interest questionnaires and gospel presentation booklets.
As we initiated conversations we received various responses -- some were willing to go through the survey, some people weren't interested in talking with us, and a few didn't speak English.
I was with Emily and Danyelle. This was the first time either had gone out doing something like this -- that is, intentionally starting conversations with the purpose of trying to introduce and explain the gospel.
It was really cool to see their excitement and willingness to step out in faith.
We talked to one young couple sitting by the "bean." The man said he was a Christian and his girlfriend said she was Buddhist.
As we asked them questions, like "What happens after death?" it was interesting to see how they interacted with each other.
We didn't get the chance to explain the gospel with them, but my prayer is that God used the conversation to spark deeper conversation between the 2 of them.
It's difficult to start conversations with strangers, but sometimes this is easier than talking to those we have established relationships with about spiritual things. As we practice talking about Jesus and what He has done in our life, my desire is that this will become more natural and that we will see God move as we seek to obey Him.
Made for Something: Part 2