Are you one of those people who do your shopping on Saturday afternoons? Most of you probably are, it seems like everybody does.
Therefore, I avoid it.
Of course, being a typical guy, I avoid shopping seven days per week… Well, at least I’m reliable!
When I am forced to go shopping, I normally approach it like a man on a mission. I check the time before I go in and try to set a speed record for having it over with. I have a hunch that I’m not the only one.
Could it be that when I do this, I’m going about things the wrong way? I’m not sure that when I’m grim-faced and on a mission to get out of the store, anybody would see Christ in me.
I’ve often noticed that most other people in the store aren’t exactly reflecting Christ either, especially at the “Sale!” counters…
I wonder what would happen if I just relaxed and tried being cheerful for once when shopping.
Would they take away my “man card?”
Maybe.
On the other hand, could I possibly have a chance to share God’s love with someone who needs to hear about it?
Maybe.
Boy, I don’t know about you, but I think this is a tough one. I wish I hadn’t though about it.
Surely God doesn’t expect me to actually be nice to strangers at the Mall!
Life Project Blog 
Hi Don,
Thought provoking as usual.
I work in a shop now and can say that open, friendly, happy customers that smile, and likewise, when a shop has welcoming, friendly customer centred staff who genuinely are interested in customer service, the experience is much better for both !
Two points..
1. you as a customer can interact with staff and other customers to use the occasion to make Christ known, I as staff have to be very careful, considerate and exercise much restraint, I represent the shop and they my not agree to my use of their time.
2. As to your last statement … Jesus was known “as the friend of sinners” that’s the answer.
If you are not making friends you greatly limit you opportunity to speak, and over time demonstrate that you are a Christian by your love and godly life, after all you life speaks louder than your words !
By all means make Christ known !
Well stated!
Sorry about the typos, Line 9 word 4 my= may line 12 all you live = all, your life
No worries, I have a proofreader who’s a blind guy so I have no room to be critical!
Dear Don
I am challenging you to try this as another lab experiment in disciple making and report back on the results. I know you… you can fake being ” just relaxed and tried being cheerful for once”
Your friend Bargo
I can always count on your Mr. Bargo!