Pronounced ‘EE-bore’ this is the old Latin quarter of Tampa which was once a thriving cigar center (they still roll a few) and now boasts a robust night life on the weekends.
To be honest, this was not my idea. My friend, Matt, preaches there on a regular basis. I knew he often went there alone and was more than likely ridiculed or ignored. And quite frankly, I felt a bit guilty about not being so bold myself. So I went. And I took my lovely fiancee Karen with me.
The first thing I noticed on the opposite corner from where Matt was sharing were three self-proclaimed atheists carrying large placards that read “JESUS IS NOT COMING.” The main event of the evening was hell-fire Christian preaching from one corner and angry atheist “equal time” rhetoric coming from the other. Occasionally someone would be greeted and given a gospel tract. The atheist gave out tracts as well. People would occasionally stop and talk on both sides of the street. The rhetoric heated up a couple of times. The Tampa PD tooks some long slow rolls down the street, keeping an eye on the action. I never saw anyone repent and come to the Lord. Or for that matter, no one reject God and take up atheism… at least right there on the spot!
I talked to a few people, did my part debating the atheists, and even handed out a few tracts. Likely, the most useful thing I did was to exchange a few words with a street person and expressed my concern when she toppled into a newspaper bin.
So what good is this preaching on the street? Is it doing any good? Can this really be called ministry? Surely, only time will tell whether the ‘implanted word’ (James 1:21-25) will sprout to new life. After we left I didn’t feel better for having summoned up the courage to be branded as a zealot on the street. In fact, I had a feeling like after I have had a argument with someone I really care for… somewhat diminished, depleted of energy, and trying to find a lesson in what just happened.
There must be a way to “take it to the streets” in a better, more positive, loving way. In future blog posts I will explore some of those ideas.
