Haircut Lessons

The other day I was sitting in a chair at my local Great Clips (I know, you probably imagined that I spent hundreds of dollars to achieve this look) waiting for one of my favorite parts of a hair cut: the peace and quiet. I don't know when that started but I actually look forward to that more than any other part, I love just sitting in silence. Much to my chagrin the stylist made the first move with, "So any big plans for the day?" In my head I responded with, "Yes, to enjoy this haircut in silence." 
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​It was at this point that I felt the ever so slight nudging of God that said, "Get over yourself, this is an opportunity to talk about me." (That may have been a paraphrase, but that was the general idea). I then proceeded to chat it up about my week, where I worked, what I did specifically at the place I worked, etc. Towards the end of my visit I extended an opportunity for her to join me at church the following week. As we parted ways, just before I reached the door she said, "What did you say the name of that church was again?" I answered and then headed for my car. 

As I've thought about that conversation over the last few days, I've been reminded that as a believer I have an opportunity everyday and often, multiple times a day to extend the love of Christ to those in need. I have no idea if that women will ever visit my church or where she finds herself spiritually. For all I know though, my brief conversation with her brightened her day and gave her hope to face another. 

Psalm 96:2-4 says, "Sing to the LORD; praise his name. Each day proclaim the good news that he saves. Publish his glorious deeds among the nations. Tell everyone about the amazing things he does. Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise! He is to be feared above all gods."

Allow me to challenge you as I've been challenged, "Get over yourself." Get over your agenda, get over your needs, get over your personal preferences and view every opportunity as a chance to proclaim the Good News to those who may not know of it. Think about your commute to work on the bus, think about the time you spend waiting in line, think about your neighbors, think about the parents on your kid's soccer team. The list is endless of people that need to hear the Gospel and need to feel valuable. 

Why would we ever hide the gift we've been given?

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