There has been a lot of ministry going on. A lot of it subtle little things but piled up create big things! I know I have posted about this before, but ministry comes in many forms, not just the traditional ones we think of.
The people here crave relationships and fellowship. They want people to come visit and stay and talk with them. They get offended if you just run by to drop something off or say hi. Unless you have a legit excuse they get upset if you don't stay. And even if you have an excuse you must plan 10-15 minutes to spend with the person before you can leave. It can be bothersome sometimes but that is just how this culture works.
When you do stay and visit with people they insist on serving you a drink at the very least (normally juice, coco-cola or coffee) but usually a small snack as well. Anything from crackers, to rice or whatever they have on hand. Refusing this is also offensive unless you have a medical reason to refuse it.
This brought to mind a saying I saw on pinterest (love pinterest!):
This is such a biblical concept. Christ was ridiculed for eating with the sinners and tax collectors. No respectable person would do that! A rabbi would eat with people of his same caliber! There is just one problem....those are not the people that need the teaching.
Now, don't get me wrong. You absolutely should spend time with other strong believers because Iron sharpens iron. However, that works both ways. In order for something to get sharper, the material sharpening it must be stronger than the object being sharpened. So, just like strong believers can sharpen you, you must sharpen others.
One of the best ways to do this is around a table over some food. That environment is a non-threatening one and because people relax around a table it is easier to talk. That being said, using a meal to pulpit-pound the scripture to someone is not appropriate. Use the relaxed environment to get them to open up, to feel comfortable talking etc. There will be a time and place for pulpit pounding later on.
Now, to clarify, there is absolutely nothing wrong with projects and ministries. They can have a very positive influence or impact depending on what it is. I am in no way trying to downplay or invalidate those, but I want to draw your attention to the importance of eating a meal with someone. There is nothing like a belly full of warm food and good conversation to make someone question what makes that person different. Why would that person who hardly knows me take the time to eat with me. Usually people only eat with friends and family. Or if you share your food with someone, it makes them question then as well. No one gives up their own food for someone else, especially not someone they do not have a relationship with. This makes them come back, and after a period of time, a relationship is built and the gospel can be shared.
Where I live most women do not know how to use or do not use their ovens. It is strictly storage and everything is cooked on the stovetop or in a rice maker. Now, these women make some fantastic food! I love it! However, one thing I can make is baked goods. Bread, muffins, pie etc. By sharing these items with people in the community and Jonathan talking to them (let's face it, my Spanish is still very limited) we have built relationships and a few have even come asking for help or advice and even a couple of church services. This had nothing to do with preaching the Gospel. We just talked and shared food. That is it. Showing Christ's love and sharing food...it is not a tree that brings forth fruit quickly, but when it does, the fruit is well worth the effort.
So, I just want to encourage you. Maybe the mission field is not your calling. However, everyone can do something to spread the Gospel and further the Kingdom of God. Next time that new employee comes to work and looks overwhelmed, invite them to join you for a snack during break time. Just talk with them. Build a relationship with them. Don't rush and share the Gospel, share food with them, be their friend. When they are ready they will ask questions. You must first prepare the soil before planting the seed. Oftentimes eating together does just that.
Until next time. Blessings to you and your homes.
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