Happy 4th men! Today is definitely a man’s holiday. We get the day off work, get to BBQ, be with family, watch the Dodger game, get to play with fireworks, and celebrate fighting for freedom! (Do I hear any Braveheart yells here?) Our family is even throwing swimming into the mix. I challenge us to not make this day simply about entertaining ourselves. That would be a waste! In the midst of having a great day, celebrating the freedom to worship God without fear, and spending time with family and friends, remember that today is a wonderful opportunity to build relationships with our neighbors and friends that do not know Christ. Men, the reputation we have is that we don’t like conversation. Well, there may not be an easier opportunity to talk with other men then when we are BBQing together. Talk with your neighbors, get to know them, and don’t be ashamed of the Gospel! It is exactly what they need! Don’t waste today.
Need some ideas?
- Don’t be afraid to pray – Let your neighbors see God through you by thanking God for freedom and praying before the meal for those in service of our country. In conversations, ask if there was anything you could pray for them about. This shows both care and faith. I don’t think I have ever had anyone fail to appreciate this question.
- Don’t be afraid to eat – I’m not saying to abandon all health conscious eating, but rather to see eating and enjoying the time as a spiritual activity. Part of the process of reaching our neighbors ban be to eat together and have fun together. Let them see God’s love through you as you entertain and show hospitality by feeding them and including them. Yep, part of sharing the gospel can be “Would you like a hamburger?” and “Let’s set of fireworks.”
- Don’t be afraid to talk – Conversations can start with simple questions like “Do you have any family plans this summer?” “How’s work going?” “How are your kids?” Then feed them and enjoy the time! We enjoy conversation when it involves things we enjoy. Listen to your neighbors and ask questions on what interests them. Men will talk about work, any projects they have, sports, and kids. Be a great listener.
- Don’t be afraid of spiritual matters – In conversation, don’t be afraid to talk about going to church and your faith in God. Take advantage of times when conversation leads that direction. It will happen. I have found that other men respect these conversations and often ask further questions. Events like Second Harvest, the campout, youth camp, and VBS are great discussion points. Our life in Christ is a normal part of life. Be real about it and let it come up! The Gospel will save their life. That’s freedom.
May God give each of us divine appointments today to be focused on His purpose! Men, set this goal for your family and they will follow you. You set the tone. Enjoy the 4th, be the church.
1 Tim 1:16 But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life.
