God’s Love for Southampton
Often, I am asked, “What does an average outreach look like?” Such a question is impossible to answer, as each day and location is different. Things change constantly. One week it may be hard and closed to the gospel; but a week later, the people are open and receptive. Today was one of those open and fruitful times of ministry.
As we set up for the outreach, it was good to see a homeless lady we had spoken with previously. Since we last saw her, she has softened more towards the gospel. It was nice to spend time with her and care for her. Each time we’ve seen her, she has heard the good news – please pray that the Lord would rescue her.
From the outset, we knew things were going to be busy. Tracts were being handed out rapidly, and people stopped at the free Bible table.
Seven young people paused at the open-air board to read the Bible verse; I went across to speak to them and discovered they were very open to chatting. They told me they’re from different religious traditions – we had a Hindu, Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and one who said he was confused. We spoke about the message of Christmas and why we need the Saviour. All listened to the good news, then took copies of John’s Gospel.
Due to all the personal witnessing conversations, we didn’t start open-air preaching until later than usual. Ben commenced the preaching by speaking on “Spot the Difference.” A young Polish man stopped to listen. Afterwards, he shared that he desired to attend church but didn’t want to be by himself. We put him in touch with a Christian who goes to a church not far from where he lives. We are praying that he will attend and come to know the Lord.
Throughout the outreach, Christians would stop to tell us that they were encouraged by the gospel work. Our hope is that they will become labourers in the harvest field.
Next to preach was Richard, who spoke on ‘Life.’ As he preached, a good-sized crowd gathered to listen. Young people stood to listen to most of the message; afterwards, they took tracts and chatted with team members.
I was the final preacher of the day. Sticking with the Christmas theme, I spoke on “Name that Carol.” Soon people gathered around to listen and engage. Using the lyrics from well-known Christmas carols, I shared the good news. At the end of the message, six of those listening came forward to receive copies of John’s Gospel.
It is popular for people to look down on the young, but I find that young people are more open to the gospel than the older. Today’s generation is asking good questions and looking for answers. Many have never heard the message of God’s love – it is foreign to them. I am hopeful that this interest will develop and grow. May the Lord save many young people!
The final conversation I had today was with a Methodist lady who had been hurt by the church. Due to her health, she was struggling. Sadly, she didn’t know the gospel. As we cared for her, we shared the gospel – stressing to her that God loves people. She listened and took a booklet.
Reflecting on today’s outreach, I see God’s love for Southampton. He didn’t have to allow the people to hear the good news, but He chose to allow them to once more hear of the Saviour. May His kindness lead many to repentance (Romans 2:4).
SDG!
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Josh Williamson is a full-time evangelist with The Open-Air Mission. Since 1853, OAM has been sharing the good news on the streets of the United Kingdom. To stay updated about the work of the Mission, please sign up for the free quarterly magazine and monthly prayer notes.
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In common with many evangelistic reports, we have changed the names and some of the photographs to protect the anonymity of those mentioned.