Joy at the Gas Pump
Today I went to Catonsville, Maryland to do our first job. Unbeknownst to me, I was about to experience some joy at the gas pump. When I pulled into a gas station there, this is what I saw:
A great t-shirt!
Start With Common Ground
Now honestly, how many times in your life do you see someone wearing a t-shirt with a scripture on the back of it? Very rarely.
The first thought that struck me was, this guy believes in God. So much so, he’s declaring it on the back of his shirt! Do you have any shirts with scriptures on the back? I don’t. So, he must really believe in God. That’s a good thing. It gives us common ground on which to build.
What I Created Joy at the Gas Pump
I quickly shot this photo because it was such a good sight. Then I grabbed an articles of faith card from my truck, looking particularly for one that had Jesus on the front. I had one. Then I walked over to him and said, “Excuse me, but I noticed the scripture on the back of your shirt. I like it! I think it’s cool!”
That’s the truth. I DID like it. And it WAS cool. Remember rule #1 in member missionary work: Always be genuine. Don’t EVER fake it. People will see right through you in a second.
Then I continued. “I thought you might like this card. It’s all about God and Jesus…” (notice how I phrased it–I’m connecting with him in his language, using verbage from his shirt–“God.”) “This is also what Mormons believe,” I concluded.
“Thank you!” he responded quickly. I then rushed back to my truck where the gas pump was still running. Turning back over my shoulder I told him again that I liked his shirt. He thanked me again.
Summary
So here’s what made this experience happen.
- I observed something around me.
- Then I connected with it on common ground (we both believe in God and the scriptures).
- I had an articles of faith card with me in the truck. Without that, it just doesn’t work.
- Because I had the card with me, I followed a prompting to give him the card and compliment him on his shirt.
- As is usually the case, the interaction was quick and to the point.
- Consequently, no one was offended because nothing offensive was discussed or brought up.
THIS STORY ILLUSTRATES HOW GOD CAN MAKE YOU A MISSIONARY EVEN AT THE GAS PUMP. But you have to have something in your possession that can be given away so there is a lasting effect. Because I had the cards with me, the card preaches the gospel for me, long after I’m gone.
Keep your eyes open wherever you go for opportunities to connect with God’s other children. Say what is appropriate to say at the time and as a general rule, keep it short! And remember, without the cards in your possession, there isn’t much you can do. So grab a couple of articles of faith cards from your local full-time missionaries and put them in your car, your wallet, your purse, etc. Then God can use you to give them to His other children who may not be aware of the restoration of the gospel like you are.
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