Be The Flavour - Streetlife
Photo by Jason Tuinstra on Unsplash
Lessons can be learned when we get out and about and connect into peoples lives right where they are at. Jesus refers to us as the salt of the earth in Matthew 5:13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again?It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot." He was speaking in everyday language and using an example from daily life - just as flavour is added to make good food - wherever we go with whoever we’re with we bring the best of the kingdom of God.
Recently on outreach during the heatwave we were giving out water to those we were connecting with and one man - said "Thank you, you're the salt of the earth" as he spoke, those words hit my heart with quite a force and I felt that maybe God was reminding me of the importance of not forgetting those society would ignore and the good flavour we bring when we are with them. That was a good day for me, we met with at least eleven people and had proper chats about faith.
Thinking of this like an evangelist it’s about bringing the good news not the bad news. Kind words to open a conversation is always a good way to begin. This is always a better position for people to listen engage and feel cared for - then the why can be explained leading to the great opportunity to get to know God can flow naturally. Over the past five months since Richard has become unwell again and needed intensive life saving treatment ( which is going really well), I’ve had some crazy things said to me by people who mean well but really they’re bringing the bad news - such as "oh well, whatever happens to Richard you know where he's going." I was a little taken aback to say the least ! Then I gently walked away.
On reflection there is a truth in what this man said but the flavour of how he was saying it was a bitter taste and it didn't encourage me toward God - hence when we are communicating the gospel and the truths it reveals, its the how we speak it that counts or all we are doing is beating people up. Just a little example for us of poor communication and to be mindful when we are going about evangelism. The space we leave people in after a conversation is so important - frightened or peaceful; lets be intentional to be known as the "Salt of the earth."
Big thanks to those of you who help to make street life happen. Our presence out there makes a big difference to those we meet.