My mission field is right here at home. While I am definitely comfortable spending time with people who don’t share my faith, it is just so easy to hibernate at the end of a long week and simply enjoy the quiet time. The recent study group “The Tangible Kingdom” has challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and do more spontaneous things.

Recently, my husband and I were planning to go out for dinner together. The kids were having a movie night, and we were looking forward to an evening out. However, thinking about all that I learned, I decided to spontaneously call and invite a couple, who we have gotten to know in the last few years, to join us. They were available.

The evening was filled with lots of laughs and some great time of sharing traditions that we each have. There were no intense conversations about God or faith, but instead, a wonderful sharing of friendship and respect for each others lives and choices. During the evening, this woman told me how she was deeply hurt by her church growing up and how she left the church at the age of 18. I was able to share with her that God would not want it that way and that He grieves for what she had to go through. At the end of the evening, the husband made us promise that we would invite them again. It was a very special night for our friendship, and we look forward to getting together again in the near future. I am praying that God will enrich our friendship and work in their lives as He sees fit.

I have been challenged and reminded that I am a reflection of God every day. I am responsible not only for the things that I do, but also for the things I do not do… when I should.