Did anyone around you experience Christmas—but somehow miss its meaning?
As Christmas passed, I found myself reflecting on that question. Many of my friends were surrounded by lights, food, family, and activity, yet never paused to consider why Christmas exists at all. That is not a criticism—just reality. It reminded me again that meaningful outreach often begins when there is unhurried space.
I have found it helpful to keep evangelism simple. Almost any event can become an opportunity when we plan with non-Christians in mind, prepare ourselves, and create space for relaxed interaction. When we do that, it becomes easier to see where God is already at work.
This year our church ran a thoughtfully designed Christmas event, especially for families with children. There were activities, food, space to talk, and a clear message shaped for people who are not yet followers of Jesus. We invited many families, but only a few were able to come. At first that was disappointing. Then I realised something important: smaller numbers created more time. Conversations were deeper. Relationships were unhurried. God was still at work.
Over the Christmas season I also carried a simple card inviting people to watch a short video of the Christmas story, with the option to explore the life of Jesus further. I took a step of faith and printed 500 cards. There was no way I could give those to people as I went about my normal activities. But as friends joined in, those cards quietly found their way into everyday moments—shops, petrol stations, brief conversations. It reminded me again that outreach is rarely dramatic. It is usually faithful and ordinary.
As I looked back over these moments, I realised they all pointed to the same deeper issue: how easy it is for people to move through Christmas without ever stopping to notice what God might be doing.
A sermon after Christmas captured this well. The pastor told a story of a man who quite literally “missed Christmas”—locked inside a bank vault Christmas Eve while everyone else went home. It was a humorous story, but the point was sobering. Many people miss Christmas without ever realising it. The encouragement was simple: stop, look, and listen. Stop the busyness. Look at what God has already done. Listen for what He may be inviting us into next.
What struck me was how well that simple idea connected across cultures. When I shared this story with Hindu and Muslim friends over dinner, it made sense to them. No religious jargon—just space to reflect.
As you look back on this Christmas season, what did you notice?
Where did God create space for conversation?
What might you do the same—or differently—next time?
The year is already moving quickly. For me, the next major outreach season is Lunar New Year. I am beginning to think through how to engage with neighbours who will be celebrating then. I will share some ideas soon.
In the meantime, thank you for your faithfulness—often unseen, often quiet, and deeply valuable. Keep noticing people. Keep listening. God is at work.
P.S. Who do you think would be encouraged by this email? Forward it to them and let them know they can walk alongside experienced cross-cultural evangelists by visiting: https://hereslife.com/encouragement