Ever wonder why people don't listen when you want to talk about Jesus? It seems that many Christians complain that our society is just not listening to the claims of Christ.
Let me share with you a story that may actually change your perspective of evangelism.
While at NIU, the Rapid Response Team (of which I was a part of) had the awesome opportunity to share the Love of Jesus with many. In fact, MOST! Many that we interacted with on the campus of NIU received us positively. As our team mingled with students and alumni at the memorials, dorms, student center, and dining areas, we were surprised and excited at the positive response from people.
Is evangelism tough? NO! If people are careful to listen and demonstrate an open spirit, sharing hope in Christ is usually respected if not accepted. The claims of Christ must be presented in loving terms, not judgemental and harsh accusatory. Beyond this, if we offer to pray for and pray with people, our attitude will convey a positive message. Chances are, your offer to pray will encourage positive interaction.
I suggest we offer "prayer evangelism!" By presenting caring terms and careful to listen (even through asking thoughtful questions) you will usually get farther. Relational objectives will befriend evangelism efforts....just a thought!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Only at Disney!
I just had to post this. While traveling to Orlando, Florida I spotted this vehicle. WOW! What a spectacle! This car must have over a thousand Disney toys glued to it. All I can say is that it takes all kinds.
Perhaps the lesson learned is that no matter what you might encounter in life, don't take life too serious. There is always someone stranger than you!
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Monday, February 25, 2008
My experience at NIU - Compass Chaplain Services, NFP
Dear Friends;
I wanted to let you know about my recent volunteer efforts at NIU (Northern Illinois University). I served the weekend as a volunteer with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association as a Rapid Response Team Chaplain at NIU. I have recorded some of the efforts and opportunities we had. To view my blog: www.rickcarder.blogspot.com
I was able to take the weekend and help promote hope and the love of Christ to students at NIU. As you already know, I work at Indiana Wesleyan University as the Alumni Relations Director for the College of Arts and Sciences.
I plan to make several ministry trips throughout the year. I usually am deployed through the Rapid Response Team with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. However, other opportunities that come my way include training and leadership in the community and church ministries.
Thank you for your friendship!
Just a reminder; contributions to Compass Chaplain Services, NFP are tax deductible. Your support is appreciated. Your financial gifts help defray my personal expenses.
Rev. Rick Carder
Compass Chaplain Services, NFP
President and Volunteer
9543 E 300 N
Van Buren, IN 46991
Monday Morning
This morning our team gathered for debriefing and sharing what God has been able to do. Many stories were shared about how we were able to prayer for and share with NIU student, alumni and community people. It is amazing what God is able to do!
Damien shared about the opportunities he had to speak with officers and social workers.
Mindy shared about being able to speak with anxious parents. She also was able to speak with several foreign exchange students. It was so impressive to see Mindy hug and comfort so many.
Some gathered at the Recreation Center. They were able to provide ministry to faculty affected by this tragedy.
Dennis shared with over a dozen and prayed for them, bringing them comfort and hope.
God can truely bring peace in the midst of broken pieces! At NIU, it is clear that God can provide help in times of trouble.
As I was checking out of my room I had the opportunity to speak with Dundra, an Indian student. He shared that he was a Hindu but very impressed with the many Christian chaplains. I explained the difference in religions and that because of Christ, salvation is a free gift. I shared that we can have the assurance of eternal life. While he did let me prayer for him, he said he was not sure about the claims of Christ. I left him with a "The Life of Christ" booklet by Billy Graham.
I also had a last minute exchange with Andrew while he waited for the bus. He shared the anxiety he felt. He said, "You never think that going to school could be so unsafe." I told him that God has a plan for our lives. I prayed for him and left him with literature. I also told him that according to Jeremiah that "God knows the plans he has for us. Plans for hope and a furture..." Pray for Andrew so that he may come to a personal relationship with Christ.
Damien shared about the opportunities he had to speak with officers and social workers.
Mindy shared about being able to speak with anxious parents. She also was able to speak with several foreign exchange students. It was so impressive to see Mindy hug and comfort so many.
Some gathered at the Recreation Center. They were able to provide ministry to faculty affected by this tragedy.
Dennis shared with over a dozen and prayed for them, bringing them comfort and hope.
God can truely bring peace in the midst of broken pieces! At NIU, it is clear that God can provide help in times of trouble.
As I was checking out of my room I had the opportunity to speak with Dundra, an Indian student. He shared that he was a Hindu but very impressed with the many Christian chaplains. I explained the difference in religions and that because of Christ, salvation is a free gift. I shared that we can have the assurance of eternal life. While he did let me prayer for him, he said he was not sure about the claims of Christ. I left him with a "The Life of Christ" booklet by Billy Graham.
I also had a last minute exchange with Andrew while he waited for the bus. He shared the anxiety he felt. He said, "You never think that going to school could be so unsafe." I told him that God has a plan for our lives. I prayed for him and left him with literature. I also told him that according to Jeremiah that "God knows the plans he has for us. Plans for hope and a furture..." Pray for Andrew so that he may come to a personal relationship with Christ.
Convocation at NIU
Dr. Peters opened the Convocation by encouraging the students, parents, alumni and community. "We will not let this tragedy define us." he said. Northern Illinois University gathered in several campus buildings, sum 30,ooo expected. I gathered with a few Rapid Response Team Chaplains at the Alumni/Visitors Center. Nearly 500 others gathered to hear a variety of University leaders and government officials speak words of hope while memorializing the lives of those lost. Many expressed emotions and gentle hugs.
During this convocation gathering were several opportunities to share God's love and prayer for those hurting. Jackie is a student who approved us for prayer. She spoke of shock and personal sadness. She told us about another friend who committed suicide just a few days prior. We told her of God's love and provision. We shared the plan of salvation and left her with literature. We had a memorable exchange in prayer that seemed to really encourage her.
On Monday and Tuesday over 600 mental health specialist will gather with students in their classrooms and dorms. During the Convocation gathering we were able to speak with quite a few of these counselors.
During this convocation gathering were several opportunities to share God's love and prayer for those hurting. Jackie is a student who approved us for prayer. She spoke of shock and personal sadness. She told us about another friend who committed suicide just a few days prior. We told her of God's love and provision. We shared the plan of salvation and left her with literature. We had a memorable exchange in prayer that seemed to really encourage her.
On Monday and Tuesday over 600 mental health specialist will gather with students in their classrooms and dorms. During the Convocation gathering we were able to speak with quite a few of these counselors.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
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