Do You Want Fries With That?

By Brenda W. McIntyre 

Our air conditioning unit went out a couple of weeks ago.  Thankfully, it was during the few cooler days we’ve had this summer in Middle Georgia.  When Josh, the HVAC guy, came out, he assessed the situation and informed us we had a couple of choices.  We could repair the immediate problem, but, considering the age of the unit, there was no guarantee we would make it through the summer without other problems.  The alternative was to purchase a new unit.  He strongly recommended a new unit.

My husband and I discussed our options while Josh packed up his tools.  Weighing all the factors, we decided to go with a new unit.  Josh promptly retrieved a clipboard from his van and prepared to give us a quote.  Again we had options.  We could purchase a Ruud, a Trane, or an American Standard.  We could select a 13, a 14, or a 15 SEER unit.  Josh recommended a 15 SEER – the higher the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio, the less the system has to work.  Besides, with the more expensive 15 SEER unit we would qualify for an income tax credit on next year’s taxes if we paid the full amount at the time of installation.  We opted for a 14 SEER unit with a variable speed system and a payment plan.By the time Josh left with our signed agreement to purchase a new A/C unit I was running late for work.  Since we hadn’t eaten lunch I went through a drive-thru where I was greeted by a garbled voice.  I placed my order for a double cheese burger and a diet drink.  “Do you want fries with that?” the garbled voice asked.

No, I didn’t care for fries, but the question planted a thought in my mind.  Almost every time I purchase an item, someone attempts to sell me something more.  When I bought ink cartridges for my printer, the cashier at the office supply store asked if I needed a ream of copy paper or a package of photo paper.  When I purchased an electronic toy for my son, the salesman reminded me to purchase batteries.  Even the self serve pumps at the gas station offer the opportunity to have my car washed.

As Christians we are called to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ, but so few of us are bold enough to do so.  Are we ashamed to tell others about the blood of Jesus?  Are we embarrassed to ask a person if she knows Christ as her Savior?  In his letter to the Romans, the Apostle Paul stated, “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes.” (Romans 1:16).

Sure, it’s the restaurant employee’s job to ask, “Do you want fries with that?”, but it is every Christian’s responsibility to share their faith with lost souls.  After his resurrection, Jesus appeared to the disciples and chastised them for their lack of faith because they did not believe he’d risen.  He said to them, “Go unto all the world and preach the good news to all creation.  Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” (Mark 16:15-16).

How can a person believe if they are not told?  There may be one person in this world who will never hear that Jesus can save him unless you tell him about God’s love.  Don’t be afraid to ask someone if they have heard the Good News.  Go ahead – step out in faith.  The Holy Spirit will direct you.