So, yesterday I had an appointment for a Mac class at Mayfair mall. I went early to play with the iPad, as I was really considering buying one. In another post I might explain my uses, but for now, let's just say that I would get as much use as most out of this new toy.
A salesman approached me - we'll call him Mark. He asked me if he could help, and I told him I wanted to see if the apps I use regularly on my iPod would transfer well to an iPad. He of course asked for an example, so I explained that I am a theology student, and I would need the Olive Tree Bible software to work at least as well. I have various Bible versions and also a Systematic Theology text on there. At that point it became very fun, for Mark looked right at me and excitedly told me that he had been going to church for one month, and didn't really know what to do next as far as studying the Bible. We talked about the church, a non denominational church in Wales, and how much he loved attending. I was able to show him the Bible application, and also direct him to Living on the Edge dot com where there is an entire online discipleship class - R12. (R12 stands for Romans 12)
This really was a kick for me. I am not overly gifted in evangelism - my forte is more in the discipleship area. But this was really exciting, and will spur me on to be more open about my passion for the Word. As in a previous post where I shared with a business partner and was asked to pray for our lunch, I am finding that sharing about my studies opens doors. Or not. But either way is okay - that is God's business. My part is to be ready to give an answer for the hope that lies within me. (1 Peter 3:15)
TIme for work. With our big vacation just TWO WEEKS from today, I'll be working 40 plus hours a week unti then. I miss my Mondays off already!
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The one drawback to using the touch for Bible reading is that it's less obvious to passersby - I'm constantly amazed at the people who will come up and start a conversation if they see you reading a Bible. Always be ready with an answer and all that. Just because we don't have the specific gift of evangelism doesn't mean the command to share doesn't apply to us.
ReplyDeleteThinking vaguely about a fall study for ND, maybe on spiritual discernment (again, as with evangelism, although there is a specific gift, all believers are called to be discerning). The one drawback is that I'd rather write my own cirriculum...have a number of sources I'd like to use, none of which have a Bible study per se. Can't really think about it until after Memorial Day, but that's the vague plan.