Help to Proclaim Whenever I Feel Foolish

It was a beautiful neighborhood.

Nice cars, trimmed bushed, manicured lawns, and decorate doorways filled with wall hangings and wind chimes.

The families in this neighborhood appeared successful and financially well-off.

And I was going to press their Ring button to talk about Jesus.

Admittedly, I was a bit wary. I knew from experience that entering neighborhoods with big homes is usually not a fruitful experience to planting seeds of the gospel.

I knew that I was bringing a message of foolishness to people who usually didn’t tolerate my presence or message.

It felt like I was an ambassador from a small nation arriving at large castles with fortified walls and huge towers. I was not coming to ask for help or negotiate a treaty, but to offer them terms of surrender. For families who appeared to have everything, my message brought little value or need.

By walking into this neighborhood, I was setting myself up to be laughed at or ignored.

How do I conquer feelings of intimidation and fear?

I recall the Biblical story of the rich man and Lazarus. I remember Jesus’ references to camels’ inability to fit inside keyholes. Everybody needs a Savior, even those who have plenty.

There are areas in the country that are more averse to proclamations of the gospel than others. There seems to be more openness to hear reasons for the hope we have in Christ for those in need rather than those who are blessed with plenty.

When a person is comfortable and feels secure in this world — and are enjoying the fruits of their success — they are largely disinterested to hear what Christ has already done for them. They are busy following the other “gods” of this world.

I am reminded of the Phoenician woman who approached Jesus. She was not his target audience. But she saw Jesus for who He really is — and asked for the breadcrumbs that fell from the table. Jesus acknowledged this woman’s faith and is forever recorded in Scripture.

Comfortable people are not looking for breadcrumbs. They often are looking to replenish the splendor of what is on their table with earthly resources rather than the treasures in heaven.

The most difficult culture to reach with the gospel is not based on skin color or foreign tongues, but people who are on a path to achieve worldly success. It’s often difficult to find entry points to talk about what Christ has already done.

Though feeling uncomfortable and wrestling with the fear of appearing foolish, I ring the grand doorbells of beautiful homes anyway. I focus on praising God’s name rather than expecting a disinterested response.

Because Christ died for them, too.

It is during these moments that I pray, “O Lord, grant me courage when I feel weak or afraid. Embolden me when I proclaim your name before those who follow the ‘gods’ of this world — even those who have been exalted with worldly fame and wealth. They need you, Lord, whether they realize it or not. Swallow my pride and let go of appearing foolish. This is not about me. This is about introducing your presence through your Word. I call out to you, O Lord, trusting that You will answer me. Amen.”

I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your unfailing love and your faithfulness, for you have so exalted your solemn decree that it surpasses your fame. When I called, you answered me; you greatly emboldened me.

Psalm 138:2-3