I found this article and decided to reprint it. This illustrates one of the ideas I am trying to pass along. If we want to reach out, and really reach out we have to think out of the box sometimes. You need to look at your life, look at the things you enjoy to do. Then turn them over to God and determine to use them for God's Goodness. Get off the couch, get out of the church. Review a few blog postings, read a book or take an online evangelism class and "Git Ur Dun"! I love it!
Have You Ever Considered Campground Evangelism? by Aleena Denison
The idea of campground evangelism is little thought of by many Christians. I certainly didn't think about it much until I started researching it. Of course, God has specifically laid it on the hearts of some believers to minister to those who travel around and spend much of their time at campgrounds, but maybe most of us don't realize the potential for ministry in this area, and it could be practically in our own backyards.
When we think of campers, we might think about all the adventures they have planned, with little time for "religion." This is true with some, but many people, even those wanting to escape thoughts of religion, are open to meeting new people and talking about various experiences in life, and conversation can eventually be swayed to spiritual things.
Here are a few things that are more common than not among those who frequent campgrounds:
* They're looking to have a good time, so for the most part their attitudes are cheerful and expectant.
* They're looking for a relaxing time away from stress and hassle, and some may be looking to escape serious emotional, physical, or spiritual difficulties in their lives.
* They're looking to meet new people and experience new things.
Aside from those who vacation at the campgrounds, the workers at campgrounds may be open to learning more about spiritual things. One thing about it, when one is surrounded by God's creation, it's hard to deny His existence. It's also possible that you could meet other believers who would love to participate in evangelism while on vacation, and there may be some believers in need of encouragement in their spiritual lives.
Although the door for campground evangelism is wide open, it would be very unwise to rush out right now and burst into camp with preaching and teaching. Prepare first and have a plan! Think about:
* Getting permission from the campground management. Beginning such a ministry without the proper permission from management could cause problems and hurt your testimony when word gets around about what you're doing.
* Building relationships with people; easing into spiritual conversation. Not everyone likes to be confronted by strangers about personal matters, and a person's soul is a personal matter--between him or her and God. Many people like to find an area of common ground on which to build, and even if there isn't anything obvious, those to whom you are speaking are apt to feel more comfortable if you show genuine interest in them.
* Specific activities you could plan according to the ages and capabilities of the people at the campground-- the ages will span from very young children to those who are retired.
* Speaking to people in a language that they understand, which will mean defining "Christianese" so that those who've never been in contact with spiritual things can understand. It would be beneficial to look for tools that help simplify the Gospel so that it's easily understood.
I'd encourage anyone who lives in an area where there are several campgrounds to consider the possibility of this ministry!
About the Author
Aleena Denison has a heart for seeing the message of the Bible presented in a clear way,and is dedicated to sharing Jesus with the lost and helping believers see their responsibilities in evangelism, discipleship, and Bible study. For more information and free downloads, see http://www.goodseed.com
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