When Jennifer found herself unable to travel to Training for Learning and Service (TLS) tutorial sessions, her entire group decided they would come to her! This living out of the Holy Habit of Gladness and Generosity kickstarted a journey which would lead Jennifer to places she could never have imagined.
All followers of Jesus, whoever they may be, have opportunities in everyday life to speak to others about our faith. Personally, I work as a driver for children with special needs, with an assistant to help me. We spend many hours together during the week and, as usual, the same question arises, ‘What have you got planned for the weekend?’ ‘Well, Bob,’ I say, ‘I will be at church on Sunday.’ ‘You don’t look like a holier than thou,’ he replies, ‘and I have been an atheist all my life.’ That was a starter for 10. Now, a year on, our conversation has progressed to ‘You know, Jennifer, those guys that wrote the bible were clever, I just might have to come to church one of these Sundays.’
As an elder and lay preacher, my excellent training from the URC has enabled me to pass on my knowledge to others. I have recently started a worship group of about 12 members who, with training, guidance and plenty of encouragement, are organising meaningful worship services. This has inspired members to use their hidden talents to develop greater opportunities for the involvement of all peoples in church worship.
Occasionally I am also invited to speak with church groups about a range of topics. A recent one looked at ecology, asking ‘What can we do individually and as a Church to be good stewards of God’s creation?’ The ideas shared as a result of this were quite innovative and inspiring.
It’s a great honour to be able to empower people in these ways, all thanks to the learning and growth which TLS offered.
Leisure takes me to my local bowling club. It is so like a church, where members laugh and have fun together, sharing and caring for each other. Some had heard I was going to be preaching a few months ago, close to our bowling green, and although they were of differing beliefs and not churchgoers, they came to hear me. I did think though as I stood in the pulpit they were thinking, ‘I hope she preaches better than she bowls!’
A few years ago, after saying prayers at the hospice for a loved member of our church, I was approached by a lady on the other side of the ward. She asked if I could come and say prayers for her mum, who was afraid to let go of life. A few short weeks later I received a phone call from the lady who had tracked me down and asked if I would be prepared to take her Mum’s funeral. This was a great privilege.
Four years ago now, I was re-united in Canada with some very close friends. When asked what I would like to do on Sunday I said, ‘Church would be good.’ Ken and Jean had not regularly attended church for over 20 years, but we went. A month ago I re-visited them, and took my daughter. No discussion about church, we all went - Ken and Jean are now regular attenders involved in church activities and outreach. Joy!
Out shopping, I bought a polished stone from a craft shop at Niagara-on-the-Lake. On it is written one word - Courage. If we have this in our toolbox, we can speak up, speak out and share our faith with everyone.
Courage, brother! do not stumble,
though thy path be dark as night;
there’s a star to guide the humble
trust in God and do the right.
What are your everyday opportunities to build the kingdom of God? Could something like Stepwise help you to deepen your knowledge and experience? Could you help someone else on their journey of faith? Let us know.
