Tonight, as I stepped outside the church, I was met with a humorous sight—a group of neighborhood kids, covered from head to toe in dirt, laughing and riding their bikes off the new dirt pile on the south side of the church property. They left a cloud of dust behind them, laughing and enjoying the simple fun that childhood brings. I couldn’t help but chuckle, thinking about the parents who would soon welcome their dirt-covered children back home. I pity those parents; good luck to them! What I saw was community in action, a reminder of the life we share here in Mill City.
Why This BBQ Matters for Our Mission
This experience brought to mind why we’re hosting our upcoming Mill City BBQ. Moments like these remind us of the importance of gathering, not just for fun, but for the deeper purpose of building relationships and sharing the love of Christ with those around us. The BBQ is more than just a social event; it’s an opportunity to connect with our neighbors, invite them into the fellowship of our church, and take a step closer to living out the Great Commission.
Paul tells us in Romans 10:14-15, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!’” This BBQ is our chance to be those “beautiful feet” bringing the good news to our community.
Small Moments Lead to Big Opportunities
I remember our last BBQ, when a neighbor who had been distant from the church for years showed up, enjoyed the meal, and ended up in a deep conversation about life with one of our members. These small interactions often lead to deeper connections. Jesus said, “Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest. Even now the one who reaps draws a wage and harvests a crop for eternal life, so that the sower and the reaper may be glad together,” (John 4:35-36). The BBQ is a prime opportunity to sow seeds of faith.
For this event to truly make an impact, we need everyone to engage in discipleship. Let’s be intentional in our conversations, look for opportunities to share our personal testimonies, and invite those we meet to join us for future events or small groups. As Peter encourages, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” (1 Peter 3:15). Evangelism isn’t about flashy programs; it’s about creating a space where people feel welcomed, loved, and open to experiencing the grace of Christ.
Beyond the BBQ: Building Lasting Relationships
This BBQ is just the beginning. The real work happens when we follow up with those who attend, building relationships beyond the event itself. Paul reminds us, “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:5-6). Evangelism requires patience and genuine care. It’s not about quick results but about slowly building trust and making a lasting impact on hearts.
The BBQ is just the start of what Mill City Christian Church offers. It’s an open door to a deeper community. So, I encourage you to bring your neighbors, your friends, and anyone who might be on the fence about faith. Following Jesus’ call in Matthew 22:9 when He urges us to “Go to the street corners and invite to the banquet anyone you find.” This BBQ should be more than just a meal; it’s an opportunity to touch lives, open hearts, and strengthen our community in Christ.
I look forward to seeing you there and sharing the joy of spreading the good news, one conversation at a time.
Community BBQ
Saturday, September 7th
3 PM – 5PM
