Last week we gave away our summer beach essentials. You’ll be happy to know, even if you didn’t win, the beach chairs, towels and YETI cooler were put to good use this past weekend (thousands are jealous of you right now Ryan - congratulations and we look forward to our invitation to the beach). Through the campaign, literally THOUSANDS of people signed up, “shared” with their friends and family, “liked” us and started “following” @shopcapehouse. We had no idea what to expect, but we didn’t anticipate it would go viral. Now that the campaign is over we probably won’t retain everyone’s attention indefinitely, but through the process, people caught a glimpse of who we are and what we are creating - even if they were only investing a minimal amount of time. We were intentional about creating an offer that was appealing. We partnered with another company to help expand the reach of the campaign. We communicated the benefits of the package. We were consistent with our timing. We were creative in executing. We made the ask. When is the last time you reflected on the things you ask others to do? If you’re like me, it’s probably not something you think about within your typical routine. This morning I asked my three year old to do a dozen different things within an hour. I asked her to finish breakfast, take her vitamins, brush her teeth, get ready for Princess Camp (yes, Princess Camp), etc. There are countless requests, asks, and invitations we extend on any given day. Often we ask without much consideration. Other times, we prepare in advance to ensure we make the right ask because we know what it means if they say yes. When we launched the campaign, we assumed we would create more likes and followers. We also knew it wouldn’t appeal to everyone. Not everyone would continue to “like” and “follow”, however, if we never asked, we wouldn’t have reached the thousands who said yes. I didn’t anticipate this campaign revealing a parallel to my faith, but I’m reminded that we have to continue to connect with people, to share what God has done in our lives and make the ask - ask people if they have experienced anything similar and what God is doing in their life. Jesus said “follow me.” He didn’t say, “have it all figured out and then come follow me”. It was an invitation. He asked and then he gave of himself. He was the ultimate offer - a reminder that we will never have anything greater to offer or give than a relationship with Jesus. Maybe this week it’s starting a conversation with a family member, a friend, a neighbor or a stranger. Maybe you’ll get turned down. Then again, maybe they will “like” what you have to say. Potentially they may “follow” Jesus. Who knows, they may turn around and “share” what they received with thousands more. Don’t overcomplicate - simply make the ask.