Navigating Challenges in Witnessing: A Mall Ministry Experience

In the early days of January, Mark and I embarked on a mission at the Fox Valley Mall in Plainfield, Illinois. Our aim was simple yet profound: to pray for people and share the Gospel, should they be open to it. However, what unfolded was a poignant lesson in faith, obedience, and the complexities of living out our Christian witness in public spaces. As we stood in the mall, our presence was soon noticed. A kind-hearted woman approached us, seeking prayers for a group she was supervising, individuals with autism. We bowed our heads, lifting their safety and well-being to God: "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace." (Numbers 6:24-26) Our prayers were answered, and the group continued their outing with peace. Yet, this moment of spiritual ministry was short-lived as we were soon confronted by a security worker. He informed us, with evident discomfort, that mall management had instructed him to remove us from the premises for wearing signs offering to pray for people. This security officer, a Christian himself, shared his personal conflict. He believed in our mission but was bound by his job's requirements: Bondservants, obey in everything those who are your earthly masters, not by way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. (Colossians 3:22) He could have lost his job for not complying, a situation that reflects the challenging balance many believers face in their professional lives. We chose to comply, not wanting to place him in an even more difficult position, and in doing so, we were able to witness to him by respecting his circumstances and upholding the name of Jesus. This encounter at the Fox Valley Mall serves as a vivid example of the complexities of Christian witness in secular environments. Here are some reflections: 1. Obedience to Authority: While the Bible teaches us to obey earthly masters, it also calls us to prioritize God’s commandments. In this case, the security guard's obedience to his employer was not in conflict with God's law, but it did highlight the tension that can exist. 2. Witness in Action: By not causing a scene or forcing the issue, we demonstrated respect for authority and the love of Christ, which might have been more impactful than any words we could have spoken. 3. Finding Light in Dark Places: The security guard, despite the constraints, can still be a beacon of light in the mall. His very presence and the gentle way he handled the situation could plant seeds for future conversations or acts of faith. 4. Practical Ministry: For those seeking to engage in public ministry, understanding and navigating the rules of the environment is crucial. It might mean finding alternative ways to share the Gospel, like through organized events or personal interactions outside of restricted areas or making T Shirts instead of using signs. 5. Encouragement: This experience reminds us that God can use even the smallest interactions for His glory. We were able to pray for a group, witness to the security guard, and leave with our faith intact, knowing that even in apparent setbacks, God's work continues. In conclusion, our time at the mall was a reminder that the Christian walk is not always smooth but filled with opportunities to shine the light of Christ. Let us be encouraged by Paul’s words: Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak. (Colossians 4:2-4) May we all continue to seek ways to share the Gospel, understanding that God’s work transcends our immediate circumstances, and His light can shine through any challenge we might face.