Andrew Bernhard (23) attended the guest bible study after working his first shift. Quite a few guests took part in the discussion and one of them stood out to Andrew. Sitting across from him was a talkative Englishman. And while the study went on, Andrew started to pray in his heart that this man would be able to hear and understand the word of God. After the study was over, Andrew sat down with the guest to talk more about the person of Christ. During the group discussion the guest had said that he believed in Christ as a prophet, but he was very open to learn who Christ really is. "At a certain point he agreed with most things I told him about Christ and salvation," says Andrew. "He kept saying 'yes'. I wondered if he would be ready to accept Christ in his life. When I asked him, he also said yes to this invitation. We prayed together and he invited Christ into his life!"
A few days later the guest left the hostel but stayed in Amsterdam. Because Andrew believes that God did not only use him to lead the guest in receiving Christ but also wants him to disciple this new believer, he kept in contact with the man. Together they have joined an Alpha-course that is being offered by an English speaking church in town. These meetings provide wonderful opportunities to learn more about the Bible and life as a Christian.
Looking back at his first day in the ministry, Andrew is very much encouraged. "I knew that I was confident in sharing my faith with people, but I always found it difficult to ask someone if he wanted to receive Christ. That I was able to do this on my first day in the hostel is very humbling because I recognise that it is God working through me. It was also exiting. I couldn't stop telling people about what had happened: God works! God works in this man and also in me!" What a beautiful confidence this is to start your six months of service with. top