Recently my husband and I were blessed with a cruise vacation. I was happy to again be able to do the church service on the ship. But this time I had a new idea—I would also ask to do a church service for the crew—the workers on the ship!
The cruise director consented! The only drawback was that it had to wait until after their workday ended—at 10:45 PM! Sure enough, they began arriving at 10:45 PM and were still walking in at 11:15 PM!
I had brought a supply of two little booklets to share with those who wanted to grow in their faith: (1) Would You Like to Know God Personally? (2) Have You Made the Wonderful Discovery of the Spirit-Filled Life? Both written by the late Dr. Bill Bright.
When the service ended, it was late and yet the people didn’t leave! They remained seated asking questions about the Bible. Later they came forward asking for prayer for their specific needs. Then several wanted to take selfies with me—to send home! One man said with tears in his eyes: “This is the first time anyone has ever come to teach us.”
Honestly, this was the best part of our vacation! I find nothing more rewarding than sharing the message of Jesus and then watching hungry souls receive it with gladness. And to think—all I did was ask permission!
Some of you may be planning a cruise vacation. I started out by simply asking the cruise director if I could do a little interdenominational Bible study and end with a time of prayer. He would assign me a room and the people would come!
Perhaps your family enjoys camping. You might introduce yourself to the people camping nearby. Tell them you plan to have a little sing-along around the campfire and a short Bible reading. Invite them to come! Pray and watch what God does through you! How exciting is that!
- He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.” Mark 16:15
- But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be ready 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
- You may read the booklets I used here: (1) https://www.cru.org/us/en/how-to-know-god/would-you-like-to-know-god-personally.html (2) https://www.cru.org/us/en/train-and-grow/spiritual-growth/the-spirit-filled-life.html
_____________
[This life is temporary. This life is short. When this life is over, our bodies will die and become empty shells, but our souls will continue to live forever. Where will the “real you” live? Will you live for all eternity separated from God? Or will you spend eternity in the presence of God in heaven? Learn more so you can make your most important decision: http://www.godlife.com/gospel/ and http://www.godlife.com/en/about-christianity
What a great idea for turning a vacation in to a ministry opportunity! You amaze me with your dedication to sharing the truth! Bless you in your continued service to Jesus!
Kathleen, you are an inspiration, a true lighthouse for God and His Gospel of salvation. Thank you for so faithfully, uninhibitedly, and joyfully shining his light WHEREVER you go.
Thank you, Joe. But often I feel as if I’ve missed opportunities. Truly they are around us daily.