An evening in France.

It was a typical Wednesday evening. Every knock on the front door brought more and more students into the warm living room, complete with festive fall decorations and sweet family photos. As coats were shed, they were eagerly collected by a sassy seven year old, clearly excited by the number of guests that had arrived.

Greeting each other with "Bonsoir" (good evening) and bise ("bees"; kisses on the cheek), students made their way through the living room into the kitchen, offering their contributions to the potluck meal: bottled beverages, a container of crackers, baguettes. Huge pots of chili simmered on the stove, the aroma filling the house.

After supper, the 21 students crammed into the living room for the weekly ministry training. This week, they would learn how to share their faith using a Cru tool called "Soularium," a photo survey with fifty different 4 x 6 picture cards. Asking a few simple questions about the images on these cards can easily lead to a conversation about the Gospel:

"What images would you choose to describe your life right now?"
"Which images do you wish described your life?"
"What image describes what you believe about God?"
"What image best represents what you wish were true about your spiritual journey right now?"

By the way, this ministry training took place in Montpellier, a small town on the southern coast of France. But it could have taken place anywhere in the world. The greetings would be different, and so would the food, but the purpose of the meeting would be the same:  how can we help others explain and share their faith in a relevant and meaningful way? Because every day we come into contact with people who are seeking fulfillment and joy and purpose for their lives. They know there's something more to the life they are living.

"But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened. 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 3.14-15