Day 36 – Acts 10: 44-48

The calling to a specific mission is very personal, that nudge and word from God comes when least expected but requires an immediate response. A time of prayer and planning, a time to wait for the Holy Spirit to come, as to set out in your own strength has failure written all over it.

I was so blessed to be called to Mission within my community, a weekly mission, meeting over seventy-two thousand people in the 8 years I have been stepping out of my church on a Friday and Saturday night. Meeting those of all ages, many have touched church but become disillusioned, with many more having never knowingly contemplated meeting Jesus.

Caring for the sick, lonely, angry, suicidal, vulnerable, treating all we meet the same, non-judgemental, all-inclusive non-excluded, just as Jesus would do.

Stepping out wearing a jacket that has in big letters on the back ‘Street Pastor’ what would be their reaction? How would they react to meeting ‘Church’ in their space in the Night Time Economy?

Respect, love, gratitude, grateful, overwhelmed with thanks, are a few of the comments received, let me tell you that ‘Church’ is very welcome on the streets, trusted, and is the light in the darkness.

So, when the question comes as it does ‘Why do you do this?’ that’s the time to talk about the love of Jesus and how we want to show that love in our actions and then explain how YOU are so special and loved by Jesus, how He is ready for YOU to come to Him, for the Holy Spirit to fill you and be Baptised with water in the name of Jesus Christ.

Father God please fill us with Your Holy Spirit to enable us to do Your will as we step out in mission. Amen

by Chris Lincoln
Newcastle Central & East Circuit
Street Pastor