I felt like an inferior witness compared to the extroverted couple at church with a revolving door of outreach prospects. But how does a person who trembles when it’s time to find a seat at potluck reach out to share the good news with the world?
This was the question my two colleagues and I discussed as we walked around the pond at Pacific Press during our work break. Ideas like popcorn bounced between us.
“You know, on my last flight, I met a couple girls who live here in Boise,” the most introverted woman in our trio said. “For some reason, they decided I was cool and invited me to hang out with them. They gave me their number. Should I call them?” Enthusiastically we encouraged her to do just that.
I could feel momentum building. The conversation with my colleagues had started because I had learned that my Adventist Review article “The Time I Denied Christ” (June 29, 2021) had inspired someone to pray with a cashier during checkout. Now, because of our conversation, my friend was inspired to stretch a bit outside of her comfort zone. I didn’t want the momentum to stop, so I pitched this column idea to the Review editors.
I hope that as you’ve read this column over the past three years, you’ve felt some of that momentum. In case you haven’t, here are a few more quick ideas I’ve gathered:
Wish strangers a “Happy Sabbath” as you go on Sabbath afternoon walks. One weekend a church elder accidentally started wishing everyone a “Happy Sabbath” on his afternoon walk. By the time he realized what he was doing, he also noticed that no one seemed bothered and, in fact, smiled and waved as they greeted him in return. He kept it up, knowing this simple act might plant a seed.
Make notes on your phone to help you through awkward conversations. Try this tip that an introverted pastor shared with me. Before meeting with someone, make notes on your phone about things you could talk about. This can help you get through the small talk so many introverts fear.
Be authentic. It’s tempting to portray a perfect faith, even when things aren’t perfect. But people can sense inauthenticity and are drawn to those they know are being real. When I started seeing a counselor for depression, I decided I needed to be completely authentic in the counselor’s office, even if doing so interfered with my witness. But the opposite happened. As he saw me wrestling to do what was right, he could see how my faith impacted my life. “I know you are a real Christian,” he told me one day. “Usually when people tell me they are Christian, I don’t believe them, but I believe you.” Now, as I write my final column and begin a new chapter in my life, I leave the momentum in your hands. You can be a living witness for Christ no matter how introverted you are. It may mean sticking your toes a bit outside of your comfort zone, but the joy of sharing is more than worth it. Once you’ve felt the joy of witnessing, share your story so others can be inspired and the momentum can continue.