I've heard three people over the last few weeks who have been great communicators and top quality ambassadors for the Christian faith. One of them you will have heard of, one you might not have heard of, and one you definitely won't have heard of.
My friend Gary Smith co-ordinated a UK tour on behalf of Compassion to raise the profile of their child-sponsorship programme. Graham Kendrick was the musical guest and Tony Campolo the speaker. Singing some of Kendrick's old favourites was special, but I came away from the Cardiff night most especially recognising Tony Campolo, whom I have heard many times before, as a consummate and passionate preacher, even at the age of 75. He is someone who has a rich fund of personal and touching stories, and who is able to bring the Gospel to life and to connect with people in a way that brings laughter and tears to even the hardest heart.
Joining some of the guys from Band of Brothers I went to a dinner where the speaker was ex-Zimbabwe cricketer Henry Olonga. Henry is a rare breed- someone able to tell sporting anecdotes and life experiences in a humorous and engaging way, but also a very good evangelist. That combination is rare in a so-called celebrity ( Bobby Ball is someone else who has these gifts.) Henry's speaking would be equally at home in cricket club or church, after dinner or after worship. Speaking to a bunch of men, he gave a very clear presentation of his own testimony and of the good news of Jesus.
Then just last week, having been caught by a speed camera some weeks ago, I opted to attend a speed awareness course to avoid having penalty points on my driving licence. Registering with the course leader I had to give my licence and he spotted the 'Rev.' before my name and then proceeded to draw a fish symbol on his notepad-wanting me to know he too was a believer. For the next four hours, his enthusiasm, good nature, humour, and mastery of public speaking and group work shone through. For him this was not just a way to make money, nor were we just bunch of law-breakers. His mission was clear- to make us better and safer drivers and to ensure the roads we travelled on were safer places. He wasn't exaggerating when he reminded us we were involved in a life or death issue. As a Christian, I was extremely proud of Ian Pomeroy - chances are you have never heard of him, but too often we assume the heroes of the Christian faith are the pastors and the missionaries when actually the real heroes are the men of women who engage with people in the real world everyday and take seriously their role as salt and light. Ian is a living embodiment of someone pursing excellence in their job and doing so to the glory of God: 'Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men' Col. 3:23
Three very different men, all following the path God has laid out for them, and all gifted communicators.
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