Ministering wherever you are
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Faith Fitness
Bro. Sam Kaufman
Ministering sometimes requires thinking outside the box.
A need can arise anywhere at any time. We’ve got to be on our toes to recognize it. Furthermore, we must be sensitive to God’s leading.
I’ve got a go-to spot when my wife travels to Ladies Retreats several times a year. The kids and I don’t fend for ourselves when my wife is gone – we have certain places we frequent.
Our Friday night routine consists of a trip to Burger King. The catchy slogan “Have it Your Way” comes to mind.
This past Friday, I loaded the kids – all four of them – into the Honda at around 7 p.m. and headed for our dining spot. The kids love the indoor playground at the Alex City Burger King. I do, as well This is a win-win for everyone.
The kids burn off a significant amount of energy while I sit and relax at a table in the regular dining area. If you’re familiar with this playground, you know it’s nearly soundproof to the rest of the restaurant. That’s because a lot of yelling and screaming occurs.
What I’m about to say goes against Parenting 101, but my back typically faces Kid-Land. Sometimes I watch basketball on the TV there.
But last Friday I had a friend with me. His wife accompanied mine to Ladies Retreat. They have a 4-month-old, so she took the baby with them.
That left the two of us – Criston and I – sitting together at a table while eating a bacon burger and spicy chicken sandwich. The kids had their shoes off in the playground area.
So, my buddy and I engaged in meaningful conversation. We talked about the Bible and other things.
Another Burger King tradition involves staging our family devotion at the restaurant. When the kids were done with the playground, we gathered around the table for it.
We talked about Romans and how we’re saved by faith through God’s grace and not by works. Then we prayed and sang a song right there in Burger King. Those sitting nearby no doubt heard us.
That’s a good thing. As we were about to leave, we walked by a young man who was sitting alone at a table.
He looked at us, and we looked at him. God’s prompting was in it. We knew we needed to tell him about the Lord.
He introduced himself to us as Juan Garcia. Juan works construction in Alex City and lives in Goodwater.
We discussed the love of Jesus. The tears were evident in Juan’s eyes. He had strayed from church for a time. But it was obvious God was lovingly attempting to bring him back.
We talked for what seemed to be 45 minutes. Burger King had already closed.
It just goes to show that God knows the hearts of men and their needs. He calls out to them. He stands at the door and knocks. If anyone opens, He’ll come in and sup with them.
Additionally, Jesus told us to get out of the four walls to minister to those hurting and in need.
It’s not just an option. Jesus commanded His church to go into all nations. Sometimes it means just ministering to needs at the local Burger King.
Sam Kaufman pastors The Church of God at 405 13th Ave. N in Alex City. Contact him at 432 266-0154.