I got some news earlier this week that I’m not really sure what to do with. Charl, the manager at the Sunflower that I’ve been really intentional about building a relationship with, told me on Monday that he’ll be moving to Cape Town in a month to manage a larger restaurant. He’s not the kind of guy that can stay in a small town like J-Bay for too long, but I really thought he’d be here longer than this. In fact, I wondered if he was one of the reasons why the Lord wanted me and Christina to stick around.
So I find myself in a quandary. I’ve spent all this building a foundation, priming the pump, figuring out exactly who this guy is so that I can share Christ with him more effectively, and now he’s skipping town. This is the problem with relational evangelism. It requires time to make this kind of investment, and now I feel like I don’t have any time left. I’m not quite sure how I “turn the corner” from here, if you will. Does he know that I think he’s pretty cool? Sure. Does he know that God thinks the same thing? I don’t know. Has he seen the kind of life I lead? Of course. Does he feel drawn to live the same kind of life? Not yet. Has he seen the joy that I have in Christ? Definitely. But does he know that that same joy is something he can experience as well? Not as far as I know.
So I feel stuck. I really don’t think I can push him, but I’ve got one week before we leave for Swazi, and then one week after I get back from Swazi he’s gone. And I know all of the classic Q&As – Is God in control? Of course. If He wants Charl, does the guy stand a chance? Not at all. If I don’t share Christ’s love with him, will he definitely never hear it all? I can’t imagine so. I know all of those. Nevertheless, I don’t want to waste an opportunity. I don’t want to force it, but I don’t want to back down from anything, either, for the sake of possibly “ruining the friendship.”
All that to say that I would appreciate your prayers in this, both for me and especially for Charl. While it’s not ultimately about either of us, I know that the Lord has brought me into his life for a reason, and I really think it’s more than being another example. So, guidance and discernment (and courage!) for me, and a softened heart for my friend Charl. I really want to party with him in heaven.
Thanks.
To me it doesn’t matter one way or the other. What I mean is, you have already set the example and influenced Charl. He more than likely expects you to bear your testimony to him. Knowing you, he would be disappointed if you did not. I am sure he will not be offended. He will understand that you are sharing something you feel is the most important thing in this life. Let the spirit be your guide for the timing. Timing is everything. I realize you are running out of time. It will be okay. And yes, I will pray for you Chris and that this situation will be a terrific experience for both you can Charl. When I pray for the benefit of my children and beg the Lord to help them, I realize that the Lord wants them to succeed just as much or more than I do. God is on our side. Love to you.
Aunt Jane