trained to provide a gospel tract with every ear of corn. The tracts are also prominently displayed on the serving counter.

Because we are long time participants we've created relationships which often lead to gospel presentations. We usually get the first spot in the line of booths called restaurant row. This gives us a little extra room for our two grills and washing station. However, it also allows us to put up a canopy. We stock it with lawn chairs and coolers for the workers and for anyone else who wants to come by. Since we are on the end it creates easy access to the entrance. We see everyone who comes into the festival and they see us. Every year we have the opportunity to organically share the gospel with folks as they visit and take a break from the heat.

Next, we are interested in just being good neighbors. People drive by our church all the time and wonder what we're like and what we are doing behind those glass doors. Without fail every year at the festival someone comes up to me and says, “So you're the pastor of the Baptist church.” Without sweating over a hot grill on a hot July day I doubt I would have ever had the opportunity to hear those words and to make a connection. The community really does want to get to know us. By being at the festival every year we've let them into our circle.

Finally, we have created strategic relationships over the years with local government leaders, police, and fire officials. They feel comfortable with us simply because they've gotten to know us through the festival. This is especially important for my congregation because we are situated in a Northern city where being a Southern Baptist is a little different. Because we've been faithfully engaged with our community it has produced many benefits for us. We are trusted. I've had opportunity to engage with city leadership on a spiritual level because my congregation was willing to put itself out there.

So is it worth it? My answer is a whole hearted yes! In so many ways the goodwill, community engagement and gospel witness really do make it all worthwhile. Would I recommend it for you? Yes! Please don't pass up an opportunity to touch lives and make a difference for eternity even if it's over a piece of grilled corn-on-the-cob.