5 ways to use your train or bus commute for Jesus

1. Pray as you travel

If you're anything like me, you'll see many of the same faces every morning. Each day I can be fairly sure I'll cross paths with Marks and Spencer breakfast man in his trendy black trainers (he bought a fruit salad and sausage roll this morning), grumpy grey-haired lady in wrinkly socks (who invariably expresses her discontent at something to a disinterested world) and desperate-for-a-cigarette guy (who only stubs out when the bus arrives and lights up immediately he alights) to name but three. I find their consistency in my life quite pleasing - they bring structure to a part of my day when my brain barely functions well. Who do you see morning by morning, week by week? Why not pray for them? Let your eyes wander along the platform or the queue and ask God to give each person a clear opportunity to get to know God better. Of course, you can pray for your friends and family too.

2. Read Scripture as you travel

I know it's more common to read the paper, listen to an iPod or mindlessly scroll through the headlines on your smartphone but there's no rule. Why not get your Bible out - as tree book or ebook? Everyone peers over everyone else's shoulder at some point in a journey so give them something great to look at. And feed yourself something inspirational as you do. The Explore app can be a great help.

3. Text Scripture as your travel

Let's face it, commuting can be quite dull. So use the time to text biblical encouragements to members of your congregation. If you know someone is struggling, remind them that God is their rock and refuge; if they are grieving, remind them of God's comforting arms. One text won't change the world but it can bring perspective to struggling sisters and brothers at the start or end of a difficult day.

4. Build relationships as you travel

When was the last time you told your husband or wife that you love them? When was the last time you dropped your adult child or your old school friends an email or call to see how they are doing? Sitting in a metal tube doesn't have to be spent in a daze, revel in the relationships that God has brought into your life and deepen them for his glory and your well-being.

5. Talk as you travel

Now, this is a little radical I know but it is actually possible to strike up conversations with people we meet on the train or bus. I can't claim to do this often but every now and then, it's great! Last year, I took the scary step at smiling at one of my fellow-travellers, a few weeks later we attempted a nod ... shockingly we progressed to "morning" in the coming months and eventually began to speak. I can't claim he's come to Christ ... but he has come to an evangelistic event. Who knows who you could get alongside if you risk a moment of eye-contact each morning. Ask God for wisdom, courage and opportunity.

Go on, use your commute for Christ this week ...