Why is it that the only booths that scare the hell out of me (literally) at the county fair are the ones run by Christians? Can't we do a better job of spreading the Gospel?
Here are some suggestions for how the treasure that is the Christian faith might better be shared on the midway.
1. Spend some money on better tracts. Instead of handing out little booklets that cost a nickel each, or some gimmicky plastic toy or a balloon, how about a nice summary about what you believe on card stock with nice lettering? And, for the love of God, stay away from Chick tracts.
2. Give out a nice story book about Jesus. Arch books are wonderful. Don't invite my child in with a "free story" and then start the bait and switch about salvation. It's tacky... and a little creepy.
3. If you're going to give out a copy of one of the Gospels, give out any one but the Gospel of John. Don't get me wrong, John's Gospel is beautiful, poetic and very deep theologically. In other words, more suited to those mature in the faith. If you simply want to introduce someone to Jesus for the first time, Matthew, Mark and Luke are all winners. (Note: I had a difficult time finding much online, other than what Ignatius Press offers, so if anyone is looking for a niche market, here's a hint.)
4. Enter the multimedia world. Voice of the Martyrs has produced a cartoon film called Jesus: He Lived Among Us. There are countless options, from The Nativity Story to The Gospel of John (see #3 however) to The Passion of the Christ. Do your own YouTube video about what mission-minded things your congregation is up to and then hand out bookmarks with a link and QR code.
5. Set up a prayer station. Bring the best of your prayer warriors. Set up a booth that reads clearly, "Listening post"... then listen to all of the problems people bring to you and offer to pray with them.
6. Feed the hungry. Set up a hunger-awareness station with handouts for ways to combat hunger, locally and globally. Put out a shopping cart for donations of canned goods. Promote local food pantries and hunger advocacy groups. Have a simple sign: Because Jesus says so...
7. Enlist local artists. Artists are woefully underpaid and under-appreciated. Pay some local artists really well to create an amazing mural during the fair. Have them do a section each day, so that it is not complete until the last day of the fair.
All of these stem from my conviction, based on Martin Luther's explanation of the third article of the Apostles' Creed, that is the Holy Spirit who does the converting. We are called to introduce people to Jesus and to share his message in word and action.
Finally, some kudos to my brothers and sisters in Christ who showed a dignified witness to the Gospel:
Bowling Green Christian Academy had elephant ears for $3.50, information about their school and were promoting an upcoming Christian concert.
The Gideons simply handed out New Testaments to 5th - 9th graders.
What is the best form of Christian witness you have observed?
What is the worst?
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