He finished his first train of thought, and then looked over at me and asked “Do you have anything to add?”
Absolutely I had something to add, but could I?
A few Sundays ago, instead of the gospel being declared to us from the pulpit at church, we were told to form small groups and take the gospel to the surrounding neighborhood. To be honest I hesitated and considered staying with the group of women who committed to stay and pray for the groups while they were gone. I considered it not because I was ashamed of the gospel but because I was afraid of not being able to represent Christ well. Maybe I would I would even make a few blunders that would leave a negative impression.
My host dad (who is also an Elder of the Church) quickly came to my side and told me I should be in the Pastor’s group. In the midst of hesitation I knew it was time to go.
Then, in the courtyard of a families’ house the pastor and waited to speak with a man a little younger than myself. Eventually we were invited to sit under a large citrus tree on a log, and after the Pastor asked a few questions he finished his first train of thought, and then looked over at me and asked “Do you have anything to add?”
What could I say?
It wasn’t a lot, but I began by telling him that my life is full of worry and uncertainty, but it was only through Jesus I have found peace. In all honesty I don’t remember everything I said, I only know it was done in very simple language in mixed up tenses… but that’s ok. I’m not the hero of the story. After speaking, I spent the next 30 minutes or so quietly listening to the conversation, and praying the Holy Spirit to work in his soul.
Although he and the Pastor exchanged phone numbers, he still seemed skeptical, and I’ve not seen him since. So… why did I bother sharing this with you? A story with no conversion, and admittedly poor communication?
Because, God is using experiences like this to make us a part of His functioning Church here in Dakar. He is the hero of the story, but is allowing us to take part. God has given us this time now to practice humility as we learn how to enter into life here not primarily as western missionaries, but members of His local church.
Would you please pause and say a quick prayer for us?
- Please pray for us to make good friendships in our church.
- Pray that our whole family would be able to find ways to fit in and serve with and alongside the church.