God loves to shatter our small expectations and blow our minds with the great things he does.
Shanda Dodd of the July 2008 F Squad grew up as a missionary kid in Europe, but even that life experience couldn’t prepare her for what God was going to do with her team in Romania. In this blog entry she examines what can happen when we simply make ourselves available for God to use.
Even after months of it, I’m still not fond of street evangelism. I’m generally under the opinion that it does more harm than good. People walk by, stare, and think what are these crazy Christians doing? Most people don’t take the time to ask what’s actually going on, they make a snap judgment and continue on their way. So, as we headed out for a night of street evangelism, I wasn’t the most excited person. I know God can move whenever and whe
rever he wants, regardless of the setting or the people involved, yet I wasn’t expecting much from our few hours on the street. But, as usual, because He’s simple amazing, God surprised me.It started out like I expected. We set up downtown in front of the theater and began singing worships songs. Our plan was to praise our Lord and Saviour and then see where He guided us. At first people just walked by, giving us strange looks but not curious enough to approach us. One man even threw a rock at us from across the plaza. I wasn’t surprised. But as we continued on, a few people took seats, some right next to us, others as far away as possible within ear shot. And then things began to change…
Daniella spotted us from across the plaza and walked straight up to us asking “What are you doing?” We explained that we were worshiping God. She didn’t ask many questions but simply joined in clapping, dancing, and even trying to sing along. We found that she’s an eighteen year old Hungarian, Gypsy who’s had a very hard life. But in that moment she seemed to let her worries
go and relaxed in God’s presence.
go and relaxed in God’s presence.Gary sat down with some friends and listened to our music. When we finished his friends walked away, but he stayed back. Josh and Feri approached him and began talking. They were able to encourage him to reconnect with his family and challenge him to come back to God.
Moni and Andrada sat halfway across the plaza whispering to each other. When Feri noticed that they were singing along he beckoned them over. They excitedly sat down and continued to clap and sin
g with us. After we finished, I approached them and found out that they were Christians and both attended a church in town. I have never met young girls so on fire for Christ. They’re passion and excitement bubbled over as they expressed their surprise at hearing Christian songs sung in their town square. It was such an encouragement to hear them talk about God transforming their lives and hoping that their fathers w
ould also come to know Jesus.
Julia slowly approached us and sat down nearby. She didn’t ask many questions, but just wanted to listen and enjoy the music. She has a religious background but isn’t walking with the Lord right now. Kara and Tara were able to talk to, encourage, and pray for her.
While some of us were talking to those who’d chosen to sit nearby, the rest of our group walked around handing out tracks and inviting people to a Friday night coffee house. Some good conversations were had and people were challenged to reevaluate their thoughts on God.
I began that evening with very little joy or excitement and not really sure what to expect. I thought maybe we’d have one of two good conversations, but I was wrong. God showed up in a big way, moving in the hearts of the people both young and old. We were encouraged and in return were able to encourage those around us. Overall it was a wonderful experience and one I’m actually looking forward to repeating again in a few days.
Are you ready to abandon your expectations and let God use you in ways you never dreamed of?
We have one route still open in September 2012, but if you don’t apply now you’ll have to wait until January 2013 to start your adventure!
