Dear Friends,
After the shepherds had gone to find the baby in the manger, they left and told others the good news of what they had seen and heard. They were humble and excited at the same time. We, who know the Lord, have been worshipping in church and that is a good thing. But now there is a change and the change is this: It is time to be humble, filled with joy and excitement as we realize, WE ARE THE CHURCH outside the walls.
People are going to read us. We need to be prepared to share the good news by having scriptures on hand or memorized by us. I like the booklet, “The Way to God” printed by World Missionary Press. It is a complete outline of the Bible, meant for children but great for adults.
This is a time when people are looking for God. There is great openness and spiritual hunger. We need to shine our light brightly because many have not been to church, and so many have not really read the Bible. We are the light of the world. This is not a time to hide under the nearest bush but to be authentic and real in our care for others.
We know that to meet the real needs of others shows love. During this time of COVID, Patty Cardona and her team have been weekly feeding over a hundred families with huge boxes of food. But, along with the food, they have invited people to listen to the online services. Faith with works makes impact!
But when you, as a loved child and ambassador of Christ, stand in front of a lost, seeking soul and begin a conversation, ready to share “the hope that is in you”, miracles can happen.
Today at a gas station where I asked a young person to help pump my gas, we had a very brief encounter. I thanked her and handed her the booklet, “The Way to God”.
She looked a bit surprised but smiled and said, “Last night my husband and I said we should find a church.”
Well the church just came to her via one of us. So, this is the time to follow the shepherds out from the manger and tell others the good news we have seen and heard and lived in real time.
We are the church wherever we are. Do not hide out and ignore this great time to grow in your love and faith as you experience God’s power to set up divine meetings to bless many and to extend His Kingdom here on earth.
Sincerely,
Joyce Dueker
Founder of Project Lost Sheep