Reflection by Angel Pennyman
Sidewalk Advocates for Life Director of Programs
When I hear the phrase “secret sauce,” I think of that one special ingredient in a recipe that sets it apart from the rest. It’s the intangible, yet essential, element that makes a dish irresistible, a business thrive, or a person truly stand out. It’s that extra touch that turns the ordinary into something unforgettable.
The time spent on the sidewalk is certainly unforgettable, but in a very different way. It can be hard. It can be discouraging at times when an encounter doesn’t turn out as we expect. It can leave us wondering what else we could have done in the moment.
Rather than thinking of something new to do, how about we go back to the basics and look to the source and summit of our mission – Jesus.
Looking Like Jesus
Looking like Jesus in sidewalk advocacy means reflecting His love and compassion in both appearance and demeanor. We can embody His presence through a gentle, approachable, and peaceful countenance.
A warm smile, kind eyes, and a respectful posture can communicate love even before words are spoken. Our very presence on the sidewalk is in answer to the call to serve the “least of these.” (MT 25:40) In every way, our presence should remind others of Christ’s invitation to grace and truth.
Acting Like Jesus
Acting like Jesus requires imitating His words and actions, particularly in how He interacted with the broken and the lost.
The people who we encounter on the sidewalk are at a crossroads. Some are confused and stressed. Others are desperate or afraid. Jesus met people where they were, spoke truth with love, and never responded with anger or hostility, even in the face of opposition. With the few moments that we have with a person, are we acting like Jesus?
In sidewalk advocacy, this means using words that are gentle, listening with patience, and offering help without judgment. When faced with hostility, we can follow Christ’s example by remaining calm and prayerful, responding with kindness rather than argument.
Every conversation should reflect His mercy, giving others a glimpse of the unconditional love He has for them. We may not see it, but those tender moments that people will remember and reflect on as they contemplate their decision.
Loving like Jesus
Loving like Jesus goes beyond individual moments of advocacy — it shapes our entire way of life. Christ’s ministry was rooted in prayer, sacrifice, and unwavering faith in the Father’s will. To truly love like Him, our work on the sidewalk must be an extension of a life dedicated to holiness.
This means preparing spiritually before engaging in advocacy, remaining connected to Christ through prayer, trusting in His power to change hearts. By consistently walking in His footsteps, we not only serve as His hands and feet in the moment but also bear witness to His transformative love in everything we do.
So, what’s the secret on the sidewalk …
It’s no secret at all — it is Jesus. Remember to
- Begin each day on the sidewalk with prayer and give the time to the Lord.
- Know that He is present in every encounter – no matter how short or long.
- Trust that the Holy Spirit is at work in every moment, especially the difficult ones.
Though we may face rejection, resistance, or even hostility, our faithfulness ensures that God’s will is being carried out. True victory is not measured by immediate results but by our obedience to Christ and our trust in His plan.
When we commit to looking, acting, and living like Jesus, we walk in His victory, confident that He is using every effort for His greater purpose.