The men's group from a
nearby church recently joined us for a day of street evangelism. I could tell
they were getting nervous as we prepped them, but I also knew God would give
them the grace to face their fears. Most of the teams we serve are often
intimidated by the idea of street ministry because they don't have much (if
any) experience. But we exist to come along side our fellow believers and help
break them out of their comfort zone. In the end, these guys ended up having a
great day and really appreciated the opportunity to serve with us.
Perhaps the most
notable moment was when one of the more reserved members of the team was able
to answer the questions of a curious Chinese man. He came up to the table
asking us questions in Chinese, and so this young man from the team used his
broken Chinese to explain what we were doing. The man was very confused about
why Jesus had to die on the cross - like why did he have to die like that? Why
not die from an illness? Why not burn to death or drown? The young man went on
to use his broken Chinese to explain. "God planned out the death of Christ
on the cross because that's how the Romans executed the worst of criminals. So
when Jesus died on the cross it was not because he was a criminal, but because
he was bearing the guilt and punishment of our sin - our crimes against God."
What an excellent
answer! I was so proud of him for getting out of his comfort zone and talking
to a stranger about Jesus.
