One Small Step Out

When people talk about becoming involved in the lives of unsaved they usually think about doing something drastic. “Escaping the Christian bubble” is seen as demanding a complete change in the way we do life. But many times God gives us opportunities to interact with the unsaved in more subtle ways. And as we take those God given opportunities we will be able to have an impact upon unbelievers for Christ.

Last Monday I was at a shopping center that is less than five minutes from my house. I was surprised to find that a Gloria Jeans coffee shop had opened up there. Gloria Jeans is a chain of cafes here in Australia. They are known for having very good coffee, and an environment where people can relax and talk with friends.

Now as strange as it may seem I believe that God brought that coffee shop to Melton just for me. See I spend a lot of time reading books that help prepare me for ministry. I also do a lot research for lessons that I teach at churches. I usually study at home, but was interested in finding another place to study. A place where I can actually interact with lost people while doing my reading.

A few weeks ago I went through Melton on a Monday morning looking for any coffee shops where I could study. The closest thing I found was a McDonalds but I didn’t really think a fast food restaurant was the best place to do that. But the small Gloria Jeans coffee shop would be just perfect for it.

Next week I plan to begin studying there at least two days a week. During that time I hope to continue learning more from God’s Word. But I also want to connect with some of the staff, and regulars there. The relationships will allow me to have open minded discussions with unbelievers about spiritual things. And in time I will share with them the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

For a while I was looking for a huge thing that God wanted me to do in Melton Australia. I expected him to give me some great ministry for this community. Instead God led me to a coffee house. That reminds me that God does not always want us to take giant leaps of faith for him. Instead he just wants us to take small simple steps as he opens the door.