Curt didn’t plan to have a gospel moment that day, but by simply pausing, listening, and responding to God’s gentle nudge, he stepped into a moment that would leave a lasting impression…

Curt, an Orangewood member, shared about an unexpected encounter that started with a college student trying to sell him a new internet service plan. Curt wasn’t interested, but instead of turning him away like we do with most solicitors, he offered something else instead: “If you come back later, I’ll give you a burger.”

Well, lo and behold, he did come back later and sparked a conversation about Curt’s job and passions, asking a multitude of questions. 

“It was beautiful how God just rolled out a very simple plan of salvation, and I was able to answer all of his really good questions,” Curt said. “It was like God was throwing me slow underhanded pitches…”

Curt learned that his family was from Cuba and ascribes to the religion of Santería, a religious tradition of African origin that was developed in Cuba and then spread throughout Latin America and the United States. 

Throughout their conversation, Curt felt the powerful draw of the Lord, seeking answers, the words to say, and the ears to listen, and he noted the “…beautiful bridges for the gospel in that conversation,” that God had provided.

Before the student left, Curt handed him his card and invited him to Orangewood. “He came to sell me something,” Curt reflected, “and I wound up being the one who had a greater treasure to offer.”

We often hear bold stories of proclaiming Christ: in moments of crisis, in front of a crowd, in response to heartache. However, we don’t hear as often about the seemingly small conversations that quietly plant seeds in the minds and hearts of those around us.

What began as a sales pitch ended with Curt offering something far more lasting than a service plan: the hope of Jesus. We know the power of following the nudge of God, no matter how small it may seem…