Today we met a man named Andre, sitting on a bench in Washington Square Park. As we talked, we shared that we were in New York to tell others about Jesus. He said he knew about God and even read the Bible sometimes but wasn’t sure how he really felt about it. “I can look at this park and all the people in it and know there’s a higher power,” he said, “but I just don’t know.”
We shared the gospel with him — that Jesus died for our sins and rose again so we could have everlasting life. Andre asked what repentance looks like and whether baptism is necessary for salvation. He admitted that his flesh feels weak and he struggles to let go of certain desires. Then he said, “Maybe one day I’ll be reincarnated and choose differently in my next life.”
That broke my heart. I gently told him that I believe there won’t be a second chance after death. We wanted so much for him to choose Jesus, but we know it’s the Holy Spirit who brings transformation. Our role is to plant seeds and pray that God continues to water them through others.
Every mission trip is different, and this one has reminded me how many misconceptions there are about who Jesus really is. My heart is heavy but hopeful. May we, as believers, be bold in sharing the truth of the gospel with love and grace. - written by Lauren Strickland
5th Annual NYC-Brooklyn mission trip
The Walk Youth Group
Building 229
Venmo: oneneednow
Thomas County Area Ministry