I'd like to write a column about evangelism. However, I am worried that if I do, you'll be frightened off and decide not to read it because "that's not your gift." Or that it's some big, hairy monster that will eat you if you get too close. So I'll write about other things. Yeah, that's the ticket. I'll write about something else so I don't have to use the "E" word.

Imagine a church that has a clear vision, is committed to making disciples, is deeply involved in Bible study and prayer, has inspiring worship, and has solid lay leadership, who use their gifts in ministry and in daily life. Not too hard so far, I hope. Now, imagine that the church invites and welcomes newcomers and seeks to integrate them into the church's life. The church also is connected to the community, serves its needs and works for community transformation. Beyond that, the leadership boldly witnesses to Christ, and deals openly with change and conflict.

Wouldn't it be great to belong to such a church? Wouldn't you enjoy being a part of this kind of congregation?  

Wait.

That sounds a lot like us, doesn't it? Maybe not 100% in each of those areas, but as we are working at building disciples together, aren't we striving to be all of those things? ELCA pastor and church wide staff member Wyvetta Bullock writes that these are the characteristics of (dare I say it) an evangelizing culture in a congregation. Could it be that we have more "E" in us than we think we do?

Often, we shy away from speaking about our faith or church because we don't want to offend someone, or seem somehow intolerant. But we also often speak to one another about how faith strengthens us in difficult times, sees us through crises, and gives us a much more hopeful perspective about everyday life. Is there someone in your life who would benefit from Jesus' words of grace, mercy and love? (yes, that was a rhetorical question...who wouldn't benefit from Jesus' words in their life?) I believe we have more freedom to speak a word of grace into the lives of our friends, colleagues and neighbors than we are inclined to think, because people are so often looking for something meaningful and transforming in their spiritual lives.

In John's gospel, both Jesus and Phillip make a simple invitation: "Come and see." They know that if people can see what God is doing through followers of Jesus, their lives will be changed. It takes three easy words: "Come and see."

Invitation isn't some big program or campaign, it is simply one person saying to another "come and see." Invitation is hoping someone else will see what you see in your church home-the presence of God among the people of God. Who at your workplace, in your neighborhood, in your social groups, might be looking for such a thing? Even if they said "no thanks," no hairy monster would appear.

Okay, I admit it. I wrote about evangelism. And it didn't hurt a bit, did it.

~ PD