Loving on a Circle K Near You

For we are not fighting against flesh and blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. – Ephesians 6:12 Over the past two years, my wife and I have made it a habit to take a morning walk along a path that begins and ends at a Circle K where we get our morning coffee before returning home. Over that time we have gotten to know the manager of the convenience store along with some of the key employees, although the turnover there is abysmal and it seems like we’re always meeting new ones. At any rate, we have had many opportunities to share Jesus and pray with some of their workers as well as customers, and encourage them to seek God in their lives. Many have thanked us. It’s no secret that working at a convenience store is a tough, tough job. Not only are the hours difficult (almost everyone starts out on the graveyard shift), but the pay is low and the benefits are skimpy. Working there can also be downright dangerous. In fact, we were told just last week by the manager that they had been robbed three times in the past two weeks.* Because of that and the other reasons I have shared, many of the new employees quit or just don’t show up for work soon after they are hired, and there doesn’t appear to be any relief in sight. So who cares? It’s just a business. Well, we do. We have decided to be more intentional and do something about the Circle K we frequent by spiritually adopting them. That’s right. They belong to us now in the spiritual realm and we are surrounding them with prayer each day (Ephesians 6:18). We are asking God to build a hedge of protection around them and watch over and bless their employees at their work and in their homes, and draw them to Jesus (John 6:44). So, would you consider joining with us? I don’t mean at our Circle K, because we’ve got them covered. But how about the convenience store where you stop and go? Instead of rushing in and out and not getting involved with anyone, how about the next time you’re there, you introduce yourself to the manager and employees and let them know you are praying for them. Express your love for them and their customers and watch God do what He does best: save some precious souls while blessing and protecting a business. If this sounds kind of crazy, it is. We call it being “Crazy for Christ!” Spiritual sophistication can be pretty boring and who knows, together we may start a movement of prayer in our city and yours. Let us know when you adopt your store. We’ll add them to our list and join you and others in prayer. God bless. – Maranatha! * Ironically, since writing this article, a Circle K near us was robbed at gun point last night. A shot was fired by the employee, hitting the assailant. The employee was suspended two weeks for violating “company policy.” Police decided not to file charges against the employee for use of a firearm. This is why we pray.