Sharing the Gospel

Some Americans who live in St. Petersburg are amazed that we can go into orphanages with a team and do the kind of ministry that we do. Some are a little surprised that we can share the Gospel. Many other individuals can’t and can only do crafts with the kids and not much else.

I explain to these Americans that SAC has spent a great deal of time building relationships with each of the directors of these ministry sites. Some I’ve known for years while others I’ve spent a year building that relationship before I even bring a team. Building relationships is how Jesus did it! Our approach is to follow the relationships as I’m introduced to other directors of orphanages and other ministry sites. Then, once there I explain what we will be doing each time I go and carefully ask permission and submit to their authority when I’m there. I also invite the directors and counselors to participate with us during our small group activities. Through our cultural exchange and charity work, we are able to bring up discussions about the Gospel and answer questions that the kids ask us. We don’t push anything, but let the Holy Spirit work in their lives of those that have their hearts softened by our visits. Directors seem to appreciate our servant approach and gentle spirit.

In my opinion, this is how to share the Gospel. God doesn’t need us. He just needs us to be obedient. He will do the rest and move the hearts of those that are open. It happened that way with one girl at Orphanage #24 during the week were there. One of our volunteers who helped to lead a small group of older teens asked her if she could have a Bible! She expressed a desire to hear more stories, but had only heard the one that we had told that particular day. So, a children’s Bible was purchased along with a regular Bible and delivery will occur soon. We’ve also received permission for this volunteer to call the director, go and take the Bible, and visit in a few weeks after their exams. By being a servant and complying with the director’s needs and schedules, we can reach orphans for Christ.