It is important that we share Jesus with others

When was the last time people came knocking on your door from a local church? In the 1960’s and 1970’s this was a somewhat new way of reaching out to others and actually somewhat effective. I remember going door to door for a week as a 14 year old in the summer of 1968 participating in a church youth program in Jacksonville, Florida,. After some hesitancy our group actually had some meaningful conversations with people about God’s love in Jesus. But, today such sharing is considered pushy, and is often ineffective. Many of those who come to our doors today are often part of cults.

But, God tells us in Scripture that the only way to heaven is faith in Jesus. Jesus says of Himself “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” So, how can Christians effectively share the good news that God loves us and sent His Son, Jesus, to die and rise to forgive our sin and bring us eternal life? Actually, while God’s children are called to “go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19), and to “be witnesses” for Jesus (Acts 1:8), God does not call us to be rude or pushy. In 1 Peter, we are actually to be “gentle and respectful” in sharing the Good News of God’s love.

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. (1 Peter 3:15)

How can we share our Savior while being gentle and respectful? I have some suggestions. This next couple of weeks St. John is offering a number of opportunities to gently and respectfully share the eternal truth that God works to save us by His grace through faith in Jesus Christ.

· First, members of St. John will be marching in the Colony Days parade on Saturday, June . The theme of our entry reflects our new mission statement, “PRAY, SERVE, ENCOURAGE – In Christ’s Love,” as this parade celebrates the history of the Matanuska Colony. As we walk in the parade we will hand out leaflets inviting people to a Community Picnic and the hospitality of St. John on our property.

· Secondly, we are offering a “Community Picnic” at St. John immediately following the parade. We will be serving hamburgers and hot dogs, side dishes and ice cream. When people take some food, they will have an opportunity to pick up a leaflet that invites them to join us in receiving God’s blessings through worship. In this way we will share God’s love while eating with those attending.

· Finally, Family Camp will replace traditional VBS at St. John this year. On Friday through Sunday, June 16-18, families will camp, attend Bible time, participate in fun outdoor activities, and grow in love as Christian families. This family camp gives us an opportunity to share Jesus in a deeper way with members of our families, and with our friends.

It is very important that we share Jesus with other people. HE is The Way to eternal life in heaven with our Heavenly Father. But, God does not call us to be obnoxious or rude in the way that we share His eternal blessing. I invite you to come and help others to share, Jesus, the reason for the hope that you have.”