About 2 weeks ago, God used a simple deck of cards to help me start a spiritual conversation with Ameer, a student from Saudi Arabia. It was a conversation that re-ignited in me a desire to be used by God to talk more about Him. My friend Gary and I (as part of a Christian Worldview class) had gone down to UCF to seek opportunities to interact with students.
What is Perspectives Cards, and how to use it?
What was supposed to be a 20-30 min ‘survey’ turned into a 90 min conversation about God and how he relates to us. Ameer used the cards he picked to describe his beliefs, and shared passionately about what he felt about morality and the source of truth. He later even told me about his desire to see change in his country that according to him has been ravaged by corruption and poor leadership. He tells me coyly that he hopes to someday to be in the country’s top leadership, so that he can somehow effect change for the better. I can’t help thinking… how cool it’d be for God to raise up a generation of young Saudis who are committed to Him, who would eventually return to their countries to make a difference!
For that day, Ameer doesn’t seem quite ready (to make any decision for Christ). But his questions, and his openness tells me God is at work in him. And only God knows the timing… for him to turn to Christ fully.
I know it was ultimately God who had prepared (in advance) for Ameer to engage in this spiritual conversation. But what surprised me was how a deck of cards can readily open up a frank open discussion with a Muslim without the usual ‘fears’ or ‘inhibitions’. I actually enjoyed listening to Ameer share about his worldview, which enabled me to better share more thoughtfully to where he is. The Perspectives Cards proved useful in outlining clearly what worldviews he has, perhaps something he’s not even thought about seriously (apart what he’s learned growing up as a Muslim). It also helped surface some inconsistency in his own beliefs. Finally it provided the opportunity for me to share briefly (without offense) from my biblical worldview, what that means, and why it matters. I thank God for this unique opportunity. And I would heartily recommend this tool for your consideration in your personal evangelism.
UPDATES: Since the time I met Ameer, Gary has had a follow-up meeting with Ahmed (his brother who was also there when we spoke). He’s been expressing a keen interest to know more about Jesus, and he wants to come to church this Sunday! He chatted with me on FaceBook today. I hope to re-connect with him together with Gary. Pls pray.
It is a special leadership & personal development opportunity for senior staff of Campus Crusade, and we’re blessed to be accepted for this. We’ll more about LHS in a future blog post.
