It seems like any time you turn on the television there is a new way for people to win money. Whether it is classic game shows like Jeopardy or Wheel of Fortune, or more recent inventions like Survivor and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?, the chances to get-rich-quick seem to abound. Most, although not all of the shows, don’t seem to involve any special talent. It is a matter of perseverance, happenstance, and the wherewithal to compete.
Recently, however, a new show called Gold Rush has debuted. Unlike the shows referenced above, Gold Rush is not about people stumbling upon opportunities to win some money. Instead, this show is about prospectors who seek to strike it rich by finding the quintessential “mother lode.” These individuals aren’t just taking advantage of the opportunities that seem to present themselves; they are seeking out ways to discover gold. They are on a proactive quest, a mission that they are determined to complete.
When it comes to evangelism, it seems that Christians can learn a lot from these televised attempts at wealth creation. After all, we are often tempted to consider evangelism much ilke the contentestants in the game shows that were discussed in the opening paragraph. We ask God to help us “take advantage of the opportunities” to share the Gospel. We try to be mindful of “open doors” and desire to respond appropriately when conversations turn to things of God. Much like a contestant on the Price is Right, we hope we don’t blow our chance if and when our name is called.
However, our efforts to share the Good News of Christ would no doubt be strengthened if instead we approached evangelism more like a prospector on a quest for gold. Instead of praying that we would “take advantage” of opportunities, perhaps we would ask God to help us “find opportunities” to share His Word. Instead of waiting for the chance to presented to us, perhaps we would proactively seek situations and settings that would allow us to display the richness of His Word. If we approached witnessing this way we wouldn’t be content with simply stumbling upon an open door, we would mine for them – digging deep in the lives of other so that we might strike at a just the right time with the Truth of His Word.
It’s possible that the reason there are so many game shows that feature contestants willing to take advantage of opportunities and so few game shows about contestants who go out and seek them is that the latter requires much more effort than the former. So it is with our evangelism. However, as I would imagine is true with the contestants on Gold Rush, when you are out seeking opportunities for Christ there is a much greater chance that you will find just what you are looking for, and as a result, the reward that comes from helping bring others to Christ.