Last week, I had a thought-provoking conversation with a new acquaintance at a dinner party. He’s an anthropology professor with a doctorate and, having grown up on the mission field in Kenya, now ministers to college professors with CRU. Someone who knows me well might quip, “How did you manage an intelligent conversation with someone so much brighter?” Funny enough, I spent most of the time listening.
The topic centered on evangelism—sharing the good news of Jesus. He posed a simple yet profound question: “Give me one word that motivates your desire to evangelize?”
My answer? “Thanksgiving!”
I have thanksgiving in my heart, and that motivates me to share the gospel with anyone willing to listen. It’s a deep-seated gratitude for several things:
This thanksgiving not only fuels my desire to share the good news of Christ but also ignites my thirst to learn more so I can share what I know intelligently. I want to be able to articulate the reasons for my hope with clarity and precision.
Finally, I am thankful for all who participate in “The Spirit behind Badge 145” online community. You encourage me with your feedback (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Let’s press toward the goal of the heavenly reward (Philippians 3:4). With synergistic effort we can bring the gospel to those who have “ears to hear” (Mark 4:9).
Happy Thanksgiving!
-Jim