May is pediatric stroke awareness month, so we have been intentional about posting pictures of our four-year-old daughter on social media and talking about the stroke she suffered in December, 2016. Many people have thanked us for our willingness to raise awareness. We pray that we can help many learn the signs of stroke and the life-and-death importance of taking action right away.

When I think of the gospel, I see it as the same—a matter of life and death. However, sometimes it can feel harder to raise awareness about the gospel than about other things. But when we remember the gospel’s eternal life-and-death importance, we can forget our shyness and share with passion. Also, sharing about our amazing, loving Savior becomes easier when we take more time to spend with Him, learning more of His merciful, loving character. The Holy Spirit is always ready to empower us and bring us opportunities to share with others. I used to think sharing just meant handing out literature or inviting people to church or to a Bible study. But I have learned that when I am open to the Holy Spirit’s leading, sharing the gospel can look different depending on the person or situation. Sometimes I am called just to share my personal testimony. Other times call for words of encouragement or building friendships. Still other times call for a straightforward approach, telling people, “God loves you and has a plan for you.”

This reminds me of Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 3:5-8:“Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. . . . Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor.”

As we continue to prepare for ministry in Ireland, we invite you to be a part of the process, either through the power of prayer or a monthly donation of any size or going yourself as a missionary. Your support is a blessing to so many people in Ireland who need to hear the life-saving gospel.

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