I could see the desperation in his eyes. He was 21 years old, Muslim, in France for the last 8 months, and because he doesn’t have papers, he’s on the streets selling cigarettes to survive. 

I had a good conversation with him; we talked about the Good News, and I shared with him what I felt God was saying to him. As our conversation came to an end, he asked if he could come to church. 

I gave him a couple of church addresses and encouraged him to come. But for Muslims, coming to church can be very difficult. It takes courage to step into a church, dressed in traditional clothing; many who do come in will stay for 10-15 minutes, and then leave. The church building itself is the barrier. 

Discipleship amongst Muslim-background seekers is much more comfortable for them in small groups, around the table, sharing a coffee, rather than in church buildings. 

But we know that the Lord changes lives, that the Holy Spirit is working in hearts, so we faithfully sow seeds, rain or shine, widely sharing the Gospel on the streets. It is a joy and privilege to live out this calling, for this beautiful country, and above all, for the Gospel—“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…”—Romans 1:16