Right Where You Are

Recently, a close Christian friend of ours was taking a walk in the neighborhood she and her husband have lived in these past 15 plus years. This couple has a lifestyle of trusting God to use them to advance the Gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom among those without Christ.
 
Both she and her husband have been experiencing some serious health issues, and they are facing a possible major career change.
 
As she walked through the neighborhood, this friend was praying about their concerns and their uncertain future. A neighbor lady saw her and came out to chat. As she and this neighbor were talking, the neighbor said to her, “There is something that I want you and your husband to know. This neighborhood is a much better neighborhood because you have lived here.”
 
Wow, I thought, what a great testimony to being salt and light “right where you are”!
 
As she continued her walk another neighbor saw her and came out to chat. As they shared together, out of the blue, this neighbor said to her, “There is something I want you and your husband to know. This neighborhood is a much better neighborhood because you have been living here.”
 
Wow, once again! More neighborhood ministry in action!
 
Let me share another brief story. My wife and I love the turkey gyros at Arby’s restaurant. When we went there for a quick dinner not long ago, we noticed that on a water cup was Arby’s commitment to its guest. Here is what is says. “Arby’s commitment is to serve, refresh, and delight every guest so they have a truly delicious experience. That is who we are and that is what we do.”
 
These two stories taken together raise some pretty challenging questions. As Christians, are we helping people see and experience the goodness and love of God? Do we truly understand what it means to be salt and light to those around us? Do we “taste good” to our nonbelieving friends? Are doors opening for us to naturally talk about the Good News of Jesus?