Alice moved from a small community in Iowa to be closer to her children who lived in Kansas City, Missouri. Alice attached herself to a Nazarene church in the area, but had developed no friendships beyond the recent acquaintances begun in the church foyer. She missed the relationships sculpted by decades of working, raising a family and caring for her neighbors in the same place.

Alice met Georgia at the post office for the first time. Georgia had lived in Independence for fifteen years. She responded with appreciation when Alice offered her help with a package slipping from Georgia's grasp as she stood in line to mail the parcels. Conversation flowed easily as the two ladies past the time waiting to be served by the postal clerk. Through the line first Alice waited for Georgia. They chatted more as they headed into the parking lot. They discovered their homes were close. Alice asked if Georgia had any free time for lunch in the weeks ahead. Georgia evaded the inquiry, but thanked Alice for her help once more.

Georgia and Alice next met in the aisle of the grocery store a few weeks later. The friendship had begun. Alice would later invite Georgia to worship with her at her new Nazarene church. Georgia eased into Alice's friendship circle and later into a quiet, but life-changing relationship with Jesus.

Why did connection take place between these two retired ladies? Alice needed friendships. She offered her hand and then her heart. She made her interest in friendship known and then made herself available.

Charles Arn identifies several factors characterizing senior adults who bring others into a saving relationship with Jesus.

a. Christians focus on people who are receptive and who will be comfortable with their church friends.

b. Prime Timers pray specifically for people outside the church and show concern for them.

c. Prime Timers give time to enhancing the friendship.

d. They attentively listen and respond to the other person.

e. They introduce their friends to other church members.

f. They patiently and consistently wait for God to work in their friends' lives (White Unto Harvest, pg.130ff).

Many mature Christians feel they cannot be effective as witnesses. Yet they possess integrity coming from years of experience. They own a faith-record-the stories of God accumulated down through the decades. They see with keen vision and eyes of faith. They know God transcends momentary and monumental adversities to achieve His unswerving purposes. They often express an indomitable spirit that is contagious and reassuring. These and other qualities make Prime Timers convincing.

One church leader said, "Evangelism is a young person's ministry." The older I grow, however, the more people I lead to Jesus. Reasons? I can better identify those who are receptive to the Gospel. I am more sensitive to what people are thinking and feeling. I have experienced hundreds of conversations that reflect a wide range of concerns that prepare me for present day encounters. These factors are some of the pay-offs for living for awhile-the benefits of seniority!

Our peers are beginning to grapple with their mortality. They know they must consider end times. While some despair others prepare. We, as Christians, can become spiritual guides. Literally millions are ready to listen if we will develop friendships and express concern. Gallup informs us that 52% of unchurched Americans would return to church in the following percentages if Christians would:

a. talk to them about spiritual matters (17%)

b. invite them to church (15%)

c. discuss their personal needs (13%).

The key is to find these people. Discerning spiritual receptivity begins in interesting conversations--asking questions and attentive listening. Adults disclose their souls when they feel comfortable and accepted.

Some practical ways to get acquainted is to volunteer at various agencies, such as a hospital or social agency. Another avenue is to take a part-time job doing something of interest that will connect you with other people. Mall walking can become a means of meeting new people. "Join us at McDonalds when you are through" can be an invitation offered as you pass other walkers. Schools appreciate tutors.

The Church is called by God to connect with unsaved and receptive people. What exciting and interesting times are ahead for those who would choose to courageously expand their friendship circle and include conversations about Jesus.