Gospel Conversations
“For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.” Philippians 2:13
Funny thing – this scripture caught my attention after going on mission to the Camino in Spain. This Word from God is exactly what I needed to beautifully summarize how God worked as our team greeted pilgrims from all over the world and we intentionally shared the Gospel “on the spot”.
Another funny thing – I had no idea how physically challenging this mission adventure to the Camino would be. Now granted, I was the most senior member of this team of 18, including the host missionaries, Josh and Brenda Lei Casey and their four girls. However, my sister, Betty, ran a close second in age, and we were both equally challenged!
After landing in Madrid, our destination was La Fuente, a pilgrim house which is located along the Camino trail in Ligonde, Spain. This was our home for the next week.
La Fuente is a place of rest and refreshment for the pilgrims who choose to take a short break for a clean bathroom, food, and conversation, as they move along their journey. For the weary pilgrims who are ready to call it a day, there is always an invitation to stay for a home-cooked meal, a shower, and a bed if there are any available. La Fuente exists simply for the sole purpose of introducing Jesus and sharing the Gospel.
In Spain, the sun does not set until 10pm, which makes for very long days and very short nights. Each day was extremely busy. We served in small groups doing specific responsibilities that rotated daily. Every evening, our team and 8 guests gathered around the big table to share conversation and a delicious meal, prepared by that day’s kitchen crew. There were ample opportunities to make new friends and, often, to share the Gospel.
I was personally blessed to have very intentional Gospel conversations with a young woman from Italy, a young man from Norway, a young man from France, and a young pregnant couple from Argentina. Strangely enough, I approached these strangers without fear and was fully aware of the power of the Holy Spirit as I was drawn to each soul. There were language barriers with these new friends, but I felt they understood my love and compassion for them as I shared Jesus. There were a few glorious salvations during the week and a multitude of seeds planted from dozens and dozens of Gospel conversations among the team.
My purpose for zooming in on these specific details, among a multitude of amazing experiences, is to encourage others to become “soul seekers”, no matter the age, energy level, health issues, or location.
When Pastor Jeremy first issued the challenge for each of us to share the Gospel with 7 souls in a year for an average of 8,400 souls reached, I balked. I couldn’t even make a list of 7 people I wanted to approach with a Gospel conversation. Wait! In one week on the Camino, I had 5 Gospel conversations, without fear. I was tired and out of my element, without the conveniences of home. I have no excuse – this will be a piece of cake if only I intentionally seek out those who are hurting and hopeless in my own circle.