Treating our evangelical allergy

"Mennonites love service, flirt with peace, and are allergic to evangelism." Pastor Phil Kniss used this quote from Andre Gingrich Stoner to open his sermon. Pastor Phil went on to outline a few reasons why we might distance ourselves from evangelicals, but did not stop there. We need to be evangelical, to proclaim God's mission in the world, to "save" the world. Matthew 28:16-20 outlines that call to evangelism. Assuming that we believe this, the question becomes, "How do we share this message?" How can we be authentic and winsome bearers of the Good News? Pastor Phil suggests looking at evangelism as spiritual formation or guidance. God is already working in the world, in every situation. We might help to point out how God is working. We listen carefully and look for God and point out God. 1 Peter 3:15-16 reminds us that we must be ready to point out why we live in hope and joy. 2 Corinthians 2:14-17 speaks of Christ's followers as a fragrant aroma in the world. This aroma will be so compelling that the world will ask us about it and we will be prepared to give answer as to the source of our hope and joy. Can we be such a community?