Start conversations (3 mins.) INFORMAL PREACHING. (lmd lesson 5 point 5).
Setting: During a work break, a publisher is talking with a colleague. During the conversation, the colleague mentions that he feels closer to God when he is in nature. The publisher acknowledges his viewpoint and uses a Bible text to show that the Bible also teaches that creation reveals God’s qualities. The colleague shows interest and agrees to visit jw.org to learn more about the subject.
Publisher: Hi, [name]. It's great that we're sharing a break. After such a busy morning, it's nice to sit down for a few minutes and have a coffee.
Assistant: Yes, that's true. Between meetings, calls, and emails, I feel like we haven't stopped for a second.
Publisher: I completely understand. Sometimes work absorbs us so much that we hardly have time to reflect on the important things in life.
Assistant: That's true. That's why, when I can, I try to disconnect a little. Going for walks or spending time in nature helps me a lot. It gives me peace of mind.
Publisher: What a wonderful habit. I commend you for seeking out those moments of calm. Many people are so busy that they never stop to appreciate what they have around them.
Assistant: Yes, for me, being surrounded by mountains, trees, or simply contemplating a beautiful landscape makes me feel closer to God. I don't need much more than that.
Publisher: I understand what you're saying, and I truly share your admiration for nature. It's breathtaking to see everything so well-designed and functioning in harmony.
Assistant: Exactly. When I see all that, I think there must have been someone very wise behind it all.
Publisher: And notice that the Bible mentions precisely that idea. There's a very interesting passage in Romans 1:20. It says: "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."
Assistant: How interesting. I didn't know the Bible expressed something so similar to what I think.
Publisher: Yes, that's why I really enjoyed listening to you. The Bible acknowledges that creation helps us to know that there is a Creator and to appreciate His power and wisdom.
Assistant: That makes sense. Nature really does convey a lot of tranquility.
Publisher: Exactly. And at the same time, nature has its limits. For example, a beautiful landscape can tell us that a Designer exists, but it doesn't tell us his name, how he feels about us, or what plans he has for the future.
Assistant: That's true. No matter how much I gaze at the mountains, I'm not going to find answers to all of life's questions.
Publisher: This is precisely where the Bible complements what we see in creation. It helps us to better understand God's personality and the promises He has for humanity.
Assistant: I had never thought of it that way. As a complement to what one already observes in nature.
Publisher: I'm glad you see it that way. If you're interested, jw.org has several very short articles that show how the Bible and observing nature complement each other. I think you might enjoy them.
Assistant: Yes, that sounds interesting. Send me the link and I'll check it out when I have a free moment.
Publisher: With pleasure. Thank you for the conversation, [name]. It's always a pleasure exchanging ideas with you.
Assistant: Likewise. And well, I think the break is over.
Publisher: It seems so. Let's continue with the day. Have a great afternoon!
Assistant: Thanks all the same.
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