One Step Closer

Our first month of ministry is complete. It’s amazing how quickly it went! God taught me and my team a lot in New Zealand. It was great having Brenden as our contact. He really poured into us. He taught us to slow down when going through a crowd and to focus on people and relationships rather than always completing a task. I know that’s definitely something I have to work on. I’m very task-oriented and like to set goals and work to complete them. So, remembering to slow down and see the people around me is not always easy.

I’m praying I won’t be like Martha when Jesus came to visit her house. She was busy with all the preparations and things that needed to be done, while her sister Mary sat at Jesus feet, listening to all he had to say. (Luke 10:38-42) Although Martha had good intentions, what Mary chose was better and more important at the time. That’s what I need to learn. Yes, it’s good to complete tasks and do them well, but it’s even more important to relate to people around us. When we get so busy, we just focus on ourselves and so often miss what’s happening with other people, and especially with Jesus.

It really showed as we ministered to the community near Silverstream. Yes, we did things for them and helped in practical ways, but the most important part was talking with them, getting to know their story and sharing some of ours. It was encouraging to see people open up as we began to serve them. At first they’d stay in their house, watching us timidly. Before long, the kids and/or parents would be outside asking us questions and interacting. It was so cool to see God break down walls. The houses where we had the best conversations were the most rewarding. Sure the lawn looked better and their windows now were clear, but more importantly, we spoke into the lives of the people and began a relationship.

One house in particular really touched me. When we first arrived, two of the kids were sitting on the porch. We said hello and tried talking with them, but they were very shy and didn’t respond. After helping wash their two cars, I went back over near the kids. The boy had a ball, so I started playing catch with him. Then his sister joined in, and we had a blast just throwing it back and forth. The mom was out on the porch too. She began to ask me more about LifeSwitch and what they offered. I told her as much as I knew then had Brenden explain more. She really seemed interested in coming and bringing her children. It was really a blessing when I saw her and the kids come to the movie night we hosted at the church. God is working! I pray she’ll go to the church service and learn about a relationship with Jesus Christ.