MINISTRY / God has been making it grow

I met this man* in 2015 while traveling for 316NOW in China.

Open air evangelism

The Christians I visited in one city went each week to an open area in their city. It was huge, about four square blocks. In the open area, thousands gathered. Thye left their small apartments to enjoy the warm night, to visit, and to play. At least a half dozen groups of people -- hundreds in a group -- danced to a variety of music. On the corners of the open area were large garden spots with walkways meandering between trees and shrubs.

The Christian group I was with sang worship songs in one of those corners. When people walked through that section of the park, the Christians engaged them in conversation, handed out invitations to their worship services, and asked for contact information.

My witness 

I talked with several people through an interpreter. The man in the photo told me he had moved into the city several months before. "I left behind my wife and child in a rural section of China," he told me. "I came here to find work. I am alone. I miss my family, friends, and small town."

We chatted as best we could. He didn't speak English; I don't speak Mandarin. The interpreter made communication possible, but it was far from ideal.

He wasn't a Christian, but he listened intently as I introduced him to Jesus, the Savior and friend who would not leave him. He said he wanted to learn more. Members of the Christian group I was with warmly welcomed him to their house church and exchanged telephone numbers.

The Spirit at work 

The Spirit had reasons for bringing us together on a corner of that huge city square years ago. But I have no way of knowing how the Spirit is using our conversation.

I am curious, though. And I am trusting.

Seeing this man’s photo has led me to pray -- again -- for his spiritual well-being. It has reminded me of God’s promise that his word “will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it (Isaiah 55:11).

One night in China, the Spirit used me to sow the seed of his grace. God willing, others have watered that seed and tended it. Still others are reaping the harvest. "But God has been making it grow" (1 Corinthians 3:6).

For that, I thank the Spirit of grace.

* For the man’s protection, I have altered the photo.