I will not be posting here for the next few weeks. After this post, you can find my comments on ministry and faith in the Son Network Team Blog (https://sonetwork.org/stories/) look for “Latvia”. When I return, the posts here will continue.
The following is copied from one of many Christian Blogs I read on a regular basis. The Seedhead, from Dandelion Resourcing, has many mission-minded posts that I think anyone interested in local/neighborhood missions would appreciate. And if you find it familiar, (and if you are a member of West County Church, I really hope you find these ideas familiar). Here is the reprint from today’s Blog:
| “Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and how he has had mercy on you.” (Mark 5:19) |
| The Power of Small StepsTalking about Jesus doesn’t require a masterclass in apologetics. Often, small, Spirit-led moments can make the biggest impact. It’s not about pushing a product, making a sale, or arguing a case. You’re opening a door for someone to encounter Jesus. This week, we want to share two simple ways you can engage in spiritual conversations. 1. “Can I Pray for You?”It’s a simple but powerful question that can unlock so much. When you offer to pray, you’re showing someone that you believe God is real, caring, and involved — and that you care, too. When to Offer Prayer: -When someone shares good news (new job, new baby, a celebration) -When someone shares a struggle (health issues, stress, grief, relational tension) How to Ask: Be casual, kind, and warm Let it be an offer, not a pressure. Examples: “I’m so excited for you starting your new job! I’d love to pray blessing over that new role! Would it be okay to do that right now?” “That sounds so stressful – would it be okay if I prayed for you to have peace this week?” “I love that you’re celebrating one year sober! Could I pray a blessing and ongoing sobriety over your next year?” “That sounds like a painful injury. This may sound a little crazy, but I’ve seen Jesus heal people’s [knees] when we’ve prayed for them – could I pray now and ask Him to bring healing to you?” Bonus Tip: If you’re not physically with the person, send a quick text:“Hey – I’m praying for you today as you have that big sales meeting. How can I pray specifically for you? Is there a target number that you’re going after??” 2. Share Your Spiritual StoriesYou have real-life experiences of God working in your life — and those stories can powerfully connect with people’s hearts. How to Share Well: -Keep it short and relatable -Focus on Jesus as the hero, not you! -Tie it to their situation if possible Simple Story Framework: Before: What was going on? (the struggle, the challenge) Jesus Stepped In: How did He work? After: How were you changed? Examples: “I used to wake up stressed every single day. Then a friend taught me to start my mornings by giving my worries to Jesus. It’s made an incredible difference – I have so much more peace now.” “When we moved across the country, I was terrified for my kids. But we felt God was leading us, and after a rough start and daily releasing my kids to Jesus, we saw Him faithfully work everything out way better than we expected.” “There was a time I felt totally alone. Then I experienced God’s presence in a way that changed everything, and I deep-down knew I wasn’t walking alone anymore.” Bonus Tip: Look for common points of struggle in your conversations (anxiety, fear, change, loneliness) and share stories of how God has met you in those areas. |
| Next Steps This Week: Look for one opportunity to offer prayer OR to share a simple God-story. Pray: Ask the Holy Spirit for eyes to see the openings He’s giving you. Celebrate Small Steps: Every conversation is a victory – you’re sowing seeds! |
From Mark, that’s it for now. Remember to check out the team blog for updates.
Pray for the tream members: Mark, Julia, David, Angela, Jerrell, JT, Zel, Veranika, David Michael.
See you when we get back!
Pastor Mark
P.S. To know more about Dandelion Resourcing (free and paid content), go here: https://www.dandelionresourcing.com/newsletter?utm_source=brevo&utm_campaign=%20The%20Gentle%20Art%20of%20Jesus-Centered%20Conversations&utm_medium=email
0 Comments