The Watering Hole

As you read the Gospels have you noticed that Jesus attitude toward people was so much different than ours? The disciples saw people as an interruption to Jesus' agenda but Jesus saw them as opportunities to share the Father's love. I also noticed that Jesus connected with people in the everyday routines of life: At the seashore, at a tax collector's booth; at a funeral procession, etc.

One day, He struck up a conversation with a Samartian woman at a watering hole (literally). Wells were not only places to draw water but a place where people shared life. They discussed their families, the difficulties and struggles they faced, the Roman occupation and so on. This is where Jesus shared with her where she could find "living water."

And the thought occurred to me; how many "watering holes" (opportunities) I pass in my day's activities. We all have them. You might hang out at Starbucks or another coffee shop - people are there than might need a word of encouragement. How about the watering hole at work (water cooler)? Is the topic: Sports? Business? Gossip? I know that people have a tendency to be turned off with 'religion' but I am not talking about that. I am talking about sharing God's love.

I am not asking you to be obnoxious or abrasive but you can tactfully turn a casual conversation into an AHA! moment for them. I believe that God brings people across our lives on purpose. There are no 'accidental' encounters. But...

1. We are often so wrapped up in our own world we miss those moments.
2. We do not live close enough to God to hear when the Holy Spirit speaks to us about approaching people. Often God is working on that person and God brings them into your life to speak a word.
3. Our fear of man has caused us to fail the Great Commission

Today, ask God where the next "watering hole" is for you. Then rely of the Spirit to open and door and give you the worlds to say.