In Jesus’ own ministry had a plan for the specific places, and sometimes even the specific people he would share the Gospel with. This plan is outlined in 10th chapter of Luke.
At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two whom he sent ahead of him in pairs, to every town and place he intended to visit. Luke 10.1
To them he goes on to give some pretty specific instructions, which actually form the habits or disciplines of evangelization. With gratitude to Msgr. Charles Pope, from the Archdiocese of Washington for his reflection on this passage, here’s mine.
The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the harvest master to send out laborers.Luke 10.2
Habit #1: Evangelization begins in prayer.
Do not take a purse or bag or sandals and do not greet anyone along the way.Luke 10.4
Habit #2: Evangelization requires simplicity and focus. That probably means as pastors and church leaders we actually have to do less, not more.
When you enter a house, first say, ‘Peace to this house.’ Luke 10.5
Habit #3: Evangelization requires the proper attitude of peace good will toward those we are reaching out to.
Stay in the same house. – Luke 10.7
Habit #4: Evangelization is all about location, location, location. It requires commitment and stability to a certain place or parish.
Eat and drink whatever they give you.– Luke 10.7
Habit #5: Evangelization efforts must be accompanied by simple, basic kindness.
